Dear Editor,
The Peeping Tom column in Kaieteur News (March 17th, 2010) open the eyes of sports organisers and promoters in Guyana.
Integration of the Diaspora in the development of the country should have been done a long time ago, but it seems that nobody has figured out where to start.
The obvious answer is sports. Sports transcend racial and economic barriers. A look at the film “INVICTUS” will show how Nelson Mandela used the power of Sports in this regard.
The decision by the IOC to award the 2016 Olympics to Brazil presents a great opportunity for Guyana to make a mark. Due to its proximity, Guyana should be able to field a larger than usual contingent if planning starts immediately.
The 1976 Olympics in Canada presented an opportunity for Cuba’s athletes to showcase their talent and they took the world by storm.
There is ample time for Guyana to start seeking out its most talented athletes and start training programmes.
Set up a high altitude training camp in the Pakaraima Mountains and start nurturing young talent as soon as possible.
Government assistance and incentives will be needed. An awards scheme should be set up for Gold Medal winners. The time is ripe for Guyana to get at least one Gold Medal. Harold Smith