THE government of Guyana will utilise its partnership reaches and the full ability of its resources to assist in the preparation of future Olympians, starting with those for the 2020 summer games in Tokyo, Japan.During an appreciation ceremony last evening for the six athletes who represented Guyana at the recently concluded Rio Olympics junior Education Minister Nicolette Henry confirmed that the Government is looking at providing more exposure for the younger athletes.
In this regard, the state is committed to more partnerships with the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and the private sector, saying, “We know that Guyanese can become world class athletes if they are given the necessary exposure and training.”
“I wish to let you know that through the government of Guyana, the Department of Culture, Youth and Sport is prepared and we are going to commit to providing you (athletes) in partnership, of course, with the necessary resources for the continued preparation and training in your particular discipline,” she continued.
The minister said, “We intend to support you to participate and compete in international meets wherever they exist and that will help you to master your skills. We recognise that in order for you to reach your full potential, you must be exposed to the kind of competition that will bring out the best.”
She outlined some of the issues plaguing local athletes – infrastructure, equipment, coaches as well, but confirmed that the government is working to correct these deficiencies, the most recent of which was a meeting with the GOA boss K. Juman-Yassin to find possible solutions.
In brief remarks, GOA president Yassin contended while Guyana did not medal at the event, one must take into consideration that those athletes who stood atop the podium are full-time athletes who dedicate their lives to mastering their niche area.
“When we look at the medal table of the countries that won medals, whether it’s gold, silver or bronze, 78 countries of 207 won medals. Out of the 78 countries, several won various medals. If somebody were to calculate the amount of medals various countries won to the number of athletes, you would see it’s much lower.”
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Alfred King, commented, “It would suggest to us (Government) that there is hope if we adopt and create the right environment and resources, the right programmes. We might be able to see better returns than just participation. But as a country, we are proud of our involvement, we are proud to have been recognised internationally.”
Of the six competitors, Hannibal Gaskin (swimming) and Winston George (athletics) were on hand to collect instruments of appreciation from the ministry, with representatives collecting on behalf of Troy Doris (triple jump), Brenessa Thompson (athletics), Aaliyah Abrams (athletics) and Jamila Sanmoogan (swimming).