THE message from officials at the opening ceremony of the Inter-Guiana Games (IGG) was pure competitive fire, urging the nearly 500 student-athletes to “perform with pride” and honour the tri-nation event’s legacy.

Persistent rain forced the opening ceremony at the National Track and Field Facility in West Coast Demerara to be scaled back dramatically.

Still, the focus quickly shifted from weather delays to the significance of the competition itself.

The IGG, revived in 2022 by President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s administration after a hiatus since 2017—remains a vital regional platform, nurturing diplomatic and sporting ties across Guyana, French Guiana, and Suriname for nearly six decades.

The tri-nation contingent of 14-to-18-year-old competitors received a powerful call to action from Guyana’s political leadership.

Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr., rallied the athletes to seize the moment, emphasising that the Games extend far beyond the medal tally.

“These Games are a platform for unity, not just competition,” Ramson Jr. said. “We want you to showcase the best of your talent and produce your best performances, but we also want you to forge bonds that reinforce us as a people.”

The message of regional camaraderie was echoed by Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Steven Jacobs, who focused on the inherent cultural exchange.

“As these three Guianas meet, we see a blending of cultures and a celebration of our shared Caribbean heritage,” Jacobs noted. “Take this opportunity to learn from one another and use this platform to grow.”

Suriname’s top sports official, Minister Lalinie Gopal, reiterated the importance of diplomatic respect. “The Inter-Guiana Games is more than sport; it’s about friendship,” said Minister Gopal. “Despite our different languages, we are united by the spirit of competition and mutual respect.”

The IGG competition runs from Friday to Sunday and caters exclusively to student-athletes aged 14 to 18.

This year’s competition features six core disciplines: Swimming, Athletics, Basketball, Volleyball, Futsal (Boys only) and Chess.