William ‘the Conqueror’ France competes in his 9th NY Marathon

Oct 29, 2008 Sports

Aims to become world’s oldest Amputee to complete the race

By Sean Devers
Top Guyanese amputee athlete 51-year-old William ‘the Conqueror’ France will aim to become the world’s oldest amputee to complete the grueling 26-Mile, 386-Yard New York Marathon on November 2.

William France along with his son display the bicycle he received from Chin Chan Store and a plaque which was given to him by Prime Minister Samuel Hinds for his efforts.

France will join amputee, Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Soldier, Denis Burns and Audrey Bowlin (who will compete in a Wheel Chair) as the Guyanese contingent in the disabled category and he was scheduled to depart Guyana yesterday for the USA.

This is the ninth occasion that France will be participating in the New York Marathon and the one-legged athlete from the East Bank Village of Mocca says this will be his last appearance at this prestigious event. He has also competed six times in the Boston Marathon.

Andrew Richardson, who participated in the New York Marathon three times, will not be representing Guyana this year since he was denied a US Visa.

France, who received awards by both President Bharrat Jagdeo and Prime Minister Samuel Hinds for his contribution to Race Walking in Guyana, told Kaieteur Sport that he has been set a time of seven hours and 15 minutes to complete the race this year.

France’s best performance in this event was in 1999 when he finished in six hours, 19 minutes and 30 seconds.

France explained that although he has represented Guyana in 17 overseas races, he does make a fortune from these events as some believe.

“I compete with my heart and soul and try to keep the Guyana flag flying proudly but I only collect medals since money is not involved in most of these events. I get sponsorship to off-set my expenses to participate and I try to make them and all Guyanese proud,” France explained.

Among France’s sponsors for this trip are; Chin Chan Store in Robb Street, who presented him with a bicycle for him to train with, Director of Sports Neil Kumar, Nigel Supermarket, Humphrey Bakery, Nandalall Persaud in Peter’s Hall, Ray Auto Spares, Ramchand Auto Spares, Stanly Ming, Prime Minister Sam Hinds, APC in Robb Street, Mahogany Suites and the Mocha Community.