PRESIDENT Irfaan Ali has inaugurated a new international-standard doubles squash court at the National Racquet Centre in Georgetown, Guyana. The G$68 million facility was officially opened on Saturday, marking a significant boost for the sport in the country.

The internal fitness area cost GY$41 million, while the building’s construction totalled GY$21 million.
President Ali emphasised the importance of sport for national development and urged the Guyana Squash Association (GSA) to develop a business model in partnership with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, to capitalise on sports tourism.

“Sport is big business,” President Ali said, stressing the need for a business strategy for squash and other sports. He added, “In every aspect of the investments we are making, we develop a business plan with the association, a business ecosystem that backs the investment.”

Minister Charles Ramson Jr. called on players to maximise the new facility and elevate Guyanese squash to the highest level. He also announced plans to commission more international-standard facilities for other sports in 2025 and the opening of five stadiums this year.

GSA President David Fernandes expressed gratitude for President Ali’s commitment to air-conditioning the new court, further enhancing the facility. He also confirmed the German-sourced court system is among the best globally.

The facility comprises three single courts that can be converted into two double courts. This flexibility is unique within the Caribbean Area Squash Association, where only Guyana and the British Virgin Islands currently possess international-standard double courts.

However, Guyana is the sole nation where the government funds the conversion of single to double courts, making the facility accessible to the public.
With ongoing hotel construction, the GSA envisions hosting the Junior Pan American Championships by 2026.