Latest update December 20th, 2024 2:23 AM
International Powerlifting officials pay courtesy call on Minister of Sports
Michael Licciardi
By Franklin Wilson
Secretary General of the North American Powerlifting Federation (NAPF) Robert Keller and International Powerlifting Federation Level Two Referee Michael Licciardi along with the top brass of the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPF) yesterday held a fruitful meeting Minister of Sport Dr. Frank Anthony at his Middle and Quamina Streets Office.
Dr. Anthony disclosed that the meeting was cordial and they were able to discuss the sport generally as well as what will take place at next year’s Caribbean Powerlifting Championships.
Some of the matters dealt with at the meeting which was also attended by President of the GAPF Peter Green, Secretary Gordon Spencer and Guyana’s most decorated Powerlifter John Edwards; were the introduction of the sport among the visually impaired where athletes from Guyana can participate in tournaments in the USA; possible help for GAPF (more equipment, relevant gear) and drug testing among others.
“I think generally it was a good meeting, very cordial and productive and we can only go from strength to strength.
I think this is really building the kinds of relationship that we want with the international bodies.”
The parties also discussed the possibility of having a special workshop during next year’s championships to deal specifically with substance abuse in sport.
Robert Keller
“If we are going to work that out, it would be facilitated by the regional body.
So this is something extra that we are looking forward to doing and it would not only benefit powerlifters, it would benefit other sporting bodies.”
Both Keller and Licciardi, who is also a coach at the University of Florida, said they were happy to be in Guyana to overlook tomorrow’s Senior’s and to also have a firsthand look at the facilities Guyana has to offer for next year.
They are impressed with the facilities Princess Hotel (formerly Buddies) has to offer. The team will visit the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall today.
The referee’s seminar will also take place today at the Princess Hotel and will run for two hours commencing at 09:00hrs.
Keller commended the GAPF for the work they have been doing as well as the athletes whom he said are well respected within the NAPF.
“Your athletes are some of the best in our region of 26 member federations; they have done a great job. In terms of development you’ve come a long way in a short amount of time so we are very encouraged with their continued development and we looking forward for a great championship.
Next year’s Caribbean championship will be the largest and I’m sure it will be the best ever.”
Tomorrow’s Banks Power Stout Senior championship is set for the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Weigh in starts at 07:30hrs to 09:00hrs while competition time is 10:00hrs.
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