AFTER reading a Guyana Chronicle captioned report “Sponsor disappointed with conduct of some Jamaican athletes” dated 2.21.2010 and for some strange reason, some thoughts came to mind and my pen went to paper.
For me, the essence of the report was because of the Jamaican born, Sanya Richards (400m world champion) and now representing the USA’S flag was the keynote speaker and some believe that they don’t think that they should listen to the invited guest speaker.
Persons would relocate to their second adopted home countries for many reasons which I respect and I don’t see a big deal when one chooses to represent another flag.
It was during the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games (I think ) that former US Track Star, Marion Jones carried the US and Grenada’s flag (not too certain it was Grenada) after a win and I am vaguely remembering that it was due to her parents ancestry that she displayed the patriotic act which was simply a superb moment.
(I don’t need to be reminded of the unfortunate circumstances that followed)
I encourage the present and potential future hopefuls representing the Golden Arrowhead and others who may choose another flag coming from Guyana, to continue with their quest in performing to the highest level of your abilities and maintain clean sportsmanship at all times.
My only request in return is never to learn that you bad mouth your starting point (Guyana) which is a gem stone in its own right.
Yes, there will be times of interview and I can live with the fact that one may say, that it’s because of the lack of proper training facilities and the politics that one may have decided to take up another flag.
Life is so beautiful when we can cherish and be proud of our roots and the colour of our skin.
Had I found the time and achieved the credentials of a sports or photo journalist, and conducting interviews or report writings, my trademark point would always be to seek one’s “starting point.”
I believe it’s a very important, and the core aspect towards the essence of any report story of an individual.
Well, the Queen’s Relay Baton is heading towards this end of the globe in a matter of a couple of days, en route to the Commonwealth Games in India later this year and it would be fun to have as many sports personalities from as many disciplines having the opportunity in carrying the baton at different stages. My first choice will be the junior athletes with the few that are expected to represent Guyana in India.