By Vanessa Braithwaite

VERY soon athletes who are residing in the Mining Town of Linden will be able to practise and compete in a modern state-of-the-art sporting facility, which will boast an eight-lane synthetic track.

The first two phases of its construction have been completed and the third phase has commenced. This includes execution of drainage works and laying of aggregates such as gravel, loam among others, which will serve as the foundation for the synthetic material to be laid.

The actual laying of the synthetic material will be done by an overseas firm and this is expected to commence at the end of September. The contractor related that work is moving apace and its completion is guaranteed before the end of the year.

In April, Minister with responsibility for Sport, George Norton, had expressed satisfaction with the ongoing works.

Norton said that he is very excited and hyped about what is in store for Linden, upon the completion of the track.

Not only is he impressed with the transformation of the Bayroc Community Centre ground where the track is currently being laid, but also he is satisfied with the quality of work being carried out by the contractors.

Minister Norton said that Region Ten has always positively contributed to sporting development in Guyana and the athletes have always represented Guyana well at international competitions.

The minister encouraged the residents of the surrounding communities to take pride in the facility and to keep a keen eye on the contractors to ensure that quality works are put out, since it will contribute to the improved aesthetics of the community.

The Linden synthetic track is being constructed by Builders Hardware and General Supplies, to the tune of $179M. This phase of the project includes   groundwork, laying of necessary drainage pipes, curb work, asphalting and concreting where necessary.

The track will also have the necessary amenities for all field events and the middle will be developed into a world-class football field.

The development of the pavilion and the additional surrounding space is a project that will be scheduled for a later time.