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– 21st Annual District Games launched
PRESIDENT David Granger, at the launching of the Upper Mazaruni 21st Annual District Games, said that he wants to see the model being implemented in other regions across the country as he pinpointed the organisation and high levels of competition.
The Games are being hosted at the Waramadong Sports Complex, Cuyuni-Mazaruni (Region Seven) from August 5-13.
The President pointed out; “Every region I go to, I tell them to imitate the Upper Mazaruni model. This model, I want to see in Regions One, Two, Three and all of the other regions of Guyana.
The first time I came here, I was fascinated to see young men and women coming together for days for these games. This is an innovative move in sport in Guyana and I wish I could see this in other regions. It is inclusive, you have the young and the old, boys and girls, rich and poor; everyone come together and it is also informative.
We learn from one another, we improve our techniques, but most of all these games are inspirational. So I want to see you strive for excellence and no matter how small, you shake up Guyana”.
He noted that the Government is working on the National Sports Development Policy, which aims to be all-inclusive. “We are working on a National Sports Development Policy, which will include the boys and girls, the hinterland and coastland; will help to develop infrastructure and will be fully comprehensive,” he said.
The President further revealed that through a collaborative effort between the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), the Waramadong Sports Complex has been outfitted with floodlights, which will cater for night games. This is the second ground that has been outfitted with floodlights in the region.
Mr. Rudolph Wellington, President of the Upper Mazaruni District Sports Council, in his brief remarks, said that this year there are 13 male teams and 12 female teams participating in the eight days of competition. He also expressed gratitude to the President and the Government of Guyana for their continued support for the annual games.
“We thank you for your support because without your support, I don’t know how we will pull this off every year,” he noted.
Sportsmen and women from Kamarang, Kako, Kaikan, Arau, Paruima, Waramadong, Quebanang, Jawalla, Phillipai, Chinoweing, Imbaimadai and Wax Creek , some of them having travelled for several days are participating in the event, identified by their own flags and colours and will over the days of the competition participate in athletics, archery, volleyball, swimming and other novelty games.
The Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs and the Department of Culture, Youth and Sport have both contributed $1.5M each to the games while the Ministry of the Presidency has provided prizes and other forms of support to make the event possible.
The event was also attended by First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger; Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton; Director of Sport, Mr. Christopher Jones; and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Mr. Alfred King.
