A NEW era of school athletics is about to dawn in Guyana.
The Ministry of Education has unveiled a sweeping overhaul of the National Schools Athletics Championships, culminating in the highly anticipated National Secondary Schools Track and Field Championships, set to ignite the National Track and Field facility from today until Thursday.
This isn’t just another school sports meet. This is a battleground for the nation’s elite young athletes. The revamped format emphasises quality over quantity, ensuring that only the cream of the crop from each school district earns the right to compete.
As Nicholas Fraser, Head of the Allied Arts Unit, explains, the goal is to elevate the championships to international standards, with a sharp focus on preparing athletes to shine at the prestigious CARIFTA Games.
“We want to showcase the best of the best,” Fraser stated. “This new format will create a more competitive environment, allowing our athletes to truly test their limits and prepare for the challenges of regional and international competition.”
Adding to the stakes, the ministry will crown both a national school champion and the district that accumulates the most points. This dual recognition will further fuel the competitive fire and drive athletes to perform at their peak.
The Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) will play a crucial role in the technical execution of the championships, working in close collaboration with teachers to ensure a smooth and professional event.
The last edition of “Nationals” in 2023 saw District 10 (Upper Demerara/Kwakwani) crowned Champion of Champions for an impressive seventh consecutive year.
Their dominance extended across multiple disciplines, securing gold in track and field and silver in cycling, swimming and the teachers’ championships. With a staggering 20 overall Champion of Champions titles, District 10 sets a high bar for the competition.
The focus on the CARIFTA Games preparation underscores the commitment to developing Guyana’s future athletic stars.
From the revamped format to the emphasis on elite competition, the National Secondary Schools Track and Field Championships promise to be a landmark event, showcasing the very best of Guyana’s young athletic talent.