SECRETARY of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF), Roger Rogers, led a three-member delegation that visited Director of Sports, Steve Ninvalle, on Thursday last at his Middle Street Office.

Accompanying Rogers were GAPLF vice-president, Andrew Austin and organising secretary/Public Relations Officer, Mark Seymour.

The Federation’s delegation briefed Ninvalle on their recent successful sojourn at the 18th Annual NAPF/FESUPO Pan-American Regional Powerlifting Championships which were held in Orlando, Florida. Guyana copped a total of eight medals– six Gold and two Silver.

The Federation plans for the immediate and near future were also shared with Ninvalle who congratulated the Federation on behalf of Minister of Sports, Charles Ramson Jr. and the Government of Guyana.

“I would like to compliment the GAPLF on your recent successes for this nation. Despite the challenges we are facing as a result of COVID-19, you and your athletes have excelled and made yourselves and this nation proud.

“Your athletes did not only medal but they broke records, too, apart from achieving personal bests which is remarkable. You have certainly displayed real discipline and commitment, and for that I commend you.”

Ninvalle assured the Federation of the NSC’s continued support for the sport.

“You have already felt the real support of the Ministry as we backed you and your athletes on your recent assignment. We will continue to be on the platform with you to ensure that you build on these successes and our athletes grow from strength to strength. We would also like to [see] your plans for the sport and work along with you to execute those plans successfully.”

Rogers comments expressed the GAPLF’s gratitude on behalf of President Gordon Spencer, who was unavoidably absent. He said the meeting was extremely successful and thanked Ninvalle and Minister Ramson for their support.

“The GAPLF was pleased to be able to share its strategic outlook with Mr. Ninvalle and were we even more elated that our outlook accords with the direction of the NSC and by extension the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport. The GAPLF intends to make the best of this engagement and will work assiduously to strengthen the partnership for the benefit of the sport. We would also like to assure the NSC, Ministry and affiliates of the Federation that were are committed towards working to make powerlifting stronger and more successful for the benefit of all inclusive of our athletes and fans.”
Rogers also took the opportunity to present Ninvalle with one of the official jerseys of the 18th Annual NAPF/FESUPO Pan-American Regional Powerlifting Championships.