DURING 2011, I embarked on an independent research project in trying to understand the system of the Track and Field fraternity in Guyana, and below is a brief. Athletes/local clubs are required to register with and pay the annual fees to the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) at the beginning of the year. Failing to do so, one will not be eligible to compete locally, or represent Guyana at  regional or international competitions.
The same applies to athletes residing overseas who may have a desire to run under the flag of Guyana. They can be doing ‘A’ standard qualifying times overseas, but at the end of the day, it’s the office of the AAG in collaboration with the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and the Ministry of Culture,Youth and Sport that decide who are eligible to represent Guyana. In one way, one’s track career can be short-lived in representing Guyana. On the other hand, someone can do very well financially by competing overseas.
But that’s the end, unless one is granted citizenship of another country and is lucky enough to be selected over a born citizen of that country, and is given the opportunity to compete in international meetings. It is always important that overseas coaches and clubs keep in contact with the office of the AAG on progress of athletes under their watch.
It was also brought to my attention that some persons are very unhappy with the selection process of athletes to represent Guyana employed by the  AAG. However, this will have to be addressed by the representatives of clubs with the AAG.
Having said that, a recent report in one of our newspapers has stated that some athletes from Region 9 will now be embarking on training, and will be competing overseas. They have my full support, but I would like to urge the athletes through their clubs or coaches to liaise with the offices of the AAG and GOA.