Known for coordinating stellar youth football tournaments throughout the length and breadth of Guyana, the Petra Organisation has now donned the cap of sponsors for the second time in two years, throwing their support behind the Upper-Mazaruni U-18 Football Championship.
The tournament, which is the brainchild of DC Caesar Fox Secondary School teacher Niel Henrito, has also attracted the support of beverage company Guyana Beverages Inc. under their Busta and Turbo Energy Drink brands.
At a simple ceremony at GBI’s conference room in Diamond, East Bank Demerara, Henrito, who was on hand to receive the various sponsorship packages, expressed gratitude for the support.
“I am grateful to be associated with the Petra Organisation. They have been at the forefront of youth football in Guyana, and when I had a chat with them prior, they told me that they were looking at expansion in the hinterland. So I was happy to have them onboard as a sponsor last year. This time around, I must say that we are pleased to have Guyana Beverages Inc. on board,” Henrito stated.
Looking ahead, he further said, “We want our tournament to grow into something we can be proud of.”
On the other hand, Co-Director of Petra Organisation Troy Mendonca noted in his address, “We are elated and happy to be associated with the tournament. We want to congratulate Sir Niel for initiating this tournament. It was good to see him come up with the idea last year to involve the youths from the area in the tournament. When he approached us, we were willing to help.” Mendonca pointed out, “We are proud and happy once again to see that the tournament is going to be played. We wish him all the best in the tournament, and we hope it is a success.” Additionally, Mendonca lauded Guyana Beverages Inc. for stepping up and “giving the youths an opportunity.”
Meanwhile, Lalita Latchman of GBI said that it is a “pleasure” for the company to continue supporting sports activities in the hinterland.
“At Guyana Beverages Inc., we firmly believe in the power of sports to unite communities, inspire young talents, and foster a culture of healthy competition.”
“This tournament holds a special place in our hearts as it not only showcases the incredible talent that thrives in our hinterland communities but also provides a platform for young athletes to excel and pursue their dreams in the world of football,” Latchman declared.
Paruima was the inaugural male winner of the tournament from among the six participating villages in the Upper Mazaruni District last year.
While the inaugural edition of the tournament was played among male teams only, this year there will be both male and female teams from the various villages vying for top honours starting June 16.
