The mining town of Linden (Region 10) once again showed their prowess in athletics by capturing the overall title at the ExxonMobil Guyana Youth Relay Festival, which was hosted by A Record Chance Inc. (ARC) on Sunday last at the National Track & Field Centre in Edinburgh, West Coast Demerara.
Over 200 athletes from various regions and representing 32 schools from across the country, along with five senior track and field clubs, participated at the first of its kind event.
Open to the public for free, the festival drew a massive crowd who caught a glimpse of Guyana’s best junior and senior athletes in action.
The on-track action saw several members of the 2024 CARIFTA Team in action, the likes of Tianna Springer (2023 & 2024 CARIFTA Games Gold Medalist), Kaidon Persaud (2024 CARIFTA Games Silver Medalist), Javon Roberts (2023 CARIFTA Gold Medalist), Marissa Thomas, Keneta Fraser, Akilla Butcher, and Dhneilson Gill.
Additionally, experienced senior athletes such as Keliza Smith (ranked #2 in NJCAA in 2024), Juvonna Cornette, Noelex Holder, and Simeon Adams were also in action.
A total of 252 medals and one championship trophy were awarded to the victorious athletes. Points were also tallied by area, with Linden emerging top of the ladder with 172 points, narrowly holding off second-placed Georgetown, who placed second with 170 points. Meanwhile, Berbice secured the third spot with 138 points, while Essequibo/West Demerara were fourth with 99 points.
Speaking after the conclusion of the festival, ARC’s founder and national athlete Arinze Chance noted, “This was the first-ever track and field event hosted by ARC, and our goal is to provide platforms for athletes and fans to compete at a high level and grow in the sport.”
He further stated, “The rivalries we saw today, especially between Georgetown and Linden, were reminiscent of the intensity seen in basketball and cricket. The long-standing rivalry between Georgetown and Linden was what the fans came to see, and both teams delivered.”
Additionally, Chance revealed, “We are eager to get Berbice and Essequibo more involved in the competition. We encourage coaches and teachers to begin preparations now for the next edition of the event. The enthusiasm and talent displayed today are a testament to the potential of Guyanese athletes.”
The presentation ceremony is slated to take place today at the Roraima Duke Lodge in Kingston, Georgetown, where athletes and coaches will be honoured for their efforts.
