Dear Editor
SPORTS remain an integral element in boosting the fitness, morale and confidence of a wide cross-section of proactive Essequibians. During the past year, I have witnessed an increase in the number of persons utilising the public road primarily to exercise. Even some recognisable athletes have been reverting to the road as well, since it has been difficult and untenable for them to do otherwise. I’m convinced therefore that much more needs to be done in creating an enabling and conducive training environment in Region Two.

Along the Essequibo Coast, there are a number of grounds that have been neglected and destroyed, due to the invasion of stray animals, while others have been abandoned.
This is quite unacceptable and the relevant authorities must become conscious about reversing this ugly situation. I am aware that the Government has been providing financial support in upgrading grounds across the country. Interestingly though, the mechanisms by which some of these grounds are administered, leaves much to be desired.

In one instance, countless loads of sand were thrown on to a ground in Henrietta to combat flooding. While the idea was commendable, unfortunately the sand was not mixed into the soil and it remained as it was until the thick grass reclaimed its presence. During the period, the ground became useless and still is presently. Similar, unpopular decisions have been unearthed at other facilities too. Another huge space which has been underutilised and which can be transformed into a multi-purpose facility is the Anna Regina Drying Floor.

This is (a)massive concrete-laid area which was built and used primarily by farmers to dry large amounts of paddy. This practice is no longer continuing and the area has deteriorated and became grass-infested. However, the residents within the village and in particular youths have been occupying same to indulge in sporting activities, including cricket and football. Amazingly, it has become an ideal and strategic venue for leisure.

It will be to the benefit of the community therefore to have this potential arena developed into a modern sporting spectacle. The Government must see the enormous benefits that can be derived from having such facilities in the region, since the population is becoming increasingly more sports and health conscious, but without the necessary support at present. An appeal is also being made to safeguard the safety of fitness joggers whose lives and limbs are at risk whenever they occupy the roadways, either early in the mornings or in the evenings.

The road remains narrow amid an increase in the number of vehicles presently, as the threat exists ever potently for accidents, including with animals too. Additionally, raging dogs become quite an enemy too to those who continue to jog. These deterrent factors can be instantly reversed with the implementation of prudent policies that will seek to enhance the worthiness of many useless grounds as well as to recognise the importance of the Region Two population remaining healthy, strong and active in sports.

It is indeed with much pride and a sense of glowing satisfaction too that I applaud the appointment of the Honourable Dr. George Norton, Minister of Social Cohesion, who is now responsible for sports. His sporting background, being an administrator along with his countryside groundings, no doubt will lend credence to his appreciation for the coastland and the challenges to have sports prosper in such regions. It is time though, for Region Two to have better training facilities.

Regards
Elroy Stephney