Seaboard Marine Race of Champions officially launched
THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph (GT&T) Company once again delivered alongside the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) as they partnered for the final leg of the Seaboard Marine Caribbean Motor Racing Championship set for November 13 at the newly restored South Dakota Circuit.
This event was officially launched at the Sports Club on Thursday evening at a simple ceremony which was attended by firm racing supporters, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Manniram Prashad; Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony and CEO of GT&T Yog Mahadeo who were the guest speakers.
GT&T, who has been onboard with GMR&SC for six years, has pledged a significant sum of money which is approximated around $30 million for the next three years.
Mahadeo disclosed that his company is pleased to be associated with the organisation and to sponsor the Guyana leg of the Championships. The CEO was confident that the partnership will survive lengthily because of the terrific effort GMR&SC puts forth to make events successful and that it was greatly admired.
Meanwhile, Minister Prashad stated that: “I would recognise all the sponsors who helped make this event possible, and also recognise the stern contribution members of the GMR&SC have made over the years and I think that this is the premiere association in the country.”
“This is the only association that has such very high standards and it is the only association I have seen so many past presidents play and active role and that is the dedication that leads to the professionalism about them,” he added.
He also stated that this sport is one which has boosted tourism as he expects over 12,000 persons to arrive for the meet next month.
In closing the Tourism Minister pledged that government of Guyana will continue to support motor racing. The association was promised $40 million by the Government of Guyana and it was duly delivered.
In Dr. Anthony’s remarks, he disclosed that the 30 odd associations throughout Guyana should take a page out of the GMR&SC’s book. He reiterated that five years ago when he encountered the GMR&SC they had not yet made any great developments.
However, with the dedication put forth, they managed to transform a very old building into a great facility for hosting functions; an exceptional gym; a sports bar and of course the only go-kart circuit in the land.
“By doing this, I think they have done two things; they have enhanced the income of the club and encourage more persons to become a part of the sport” Dr. Anthony said.
He emphasised that the GMR&SC can turn to the government for help as they develop their sport as they put future plans into place; “we are trying to develop all of our sports and thus far the GMR&SC is the leading sport.”
Speaking finally, was President of the GMR&SC John Carpenter, and he expressed his gratitude to the sponsors who have come onboard to make the event possible.
The three round event was hosted in Jamaica in May where Barbados took the lead in the points standing between the three countries (Guyana, Jamaica, Barbados),  but Guyana did not participate in that round.
It then moved to Barbados where the host further extended their lead on Jamaica who is second and defending champions Guyana – third.
Now the champions will be decided come November with guest racers who are expected to be coming from USA and Canada.
In the individual category, Jamaica’s David Summerbell leads with Barbadians Mark Maloney and Roger Meyers following.