Digicel on board Goodwill Swimming, Regional Scrabble

Aug 16, 2012 Sports

By Rawle Welch
Two sporting disciplines were able to breathe a little bit easier when cellular service giants Digicel confirmed support, during a simple ceremony that was conducted yesterday, at the Company’s Head Office.
The two beneficiaries were the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) who will be hosting the Caribbean Goodwill Swimming Championships and the Guyana Association for Scrabble Players (GASP) that will be staging the Regional Tournament shortly.
Representing GASA was Secretary Dee George, while Moen Gafoor,

Digicel’s representatives PRO Shonnet Moore and Gavin Hope seen at the Head Table with GASA Secretary Dee George yesterday.

Abigail McDonald and Leon Belony acted on behalf of the Scrabble fraternity.
George in her remarks gave a brief synopsis of the event, informing that only Trinidad and Tobago of the four participating countries will be represented by a full contingent with 40 swimmers expected to arrive, while 36, 31 and 27 are anticipated to take to the pool for Suriname, Barbados and Guyana respectively.
Commenting on preparations, George informed that the blocks from the 50 metres configuration has been removed by an expert from the manufacturer and every aspect with regards to the Pool’s readiness has been completed.
She added that because the facility is still under warranty the custodians decided that it was best to utilize the expertise of the manufacturing company.
George when quizzed about Guyana’s chances of upstaging the visitors said that Trinidad and Tobago and Suriname were usually strong teams and are still expected to do well, but the host has prepared thoroughly and is aiming to improve in the points standing.
She then thanked Digicel for its support, adding that she hopes it is the beginning of a long and fruitful relationship.
The event starts tomorrow and run until Sunday, at the National Aquatic Centre, Lilliendaal.
Head of Finance and Fund Raising of GASP Meon Gafoor speaking at the occasion said that the locals have prepared the best they could and are looking forward to the challenges of Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados on August 23-26, at the Bank of Guyana Roof Garden.
Belong commenting on his preparation informed he is rounding into form and expects to do well, especially in light of the fact that this will be his third year at the tournament and over the period he has gained valuable experience.
Defending national champion McDonald, who has won the accolade back to back told the media that she too is extremely pleased with her progress and is rearing to face off against the best exponents in the Caribbean.

GASP representatives (from right) Moen Gafoor, Leon Belony and Abigail McDonald seen along with Digicel staff Gavin Hope and Shonnet Moore yesterday.

She said she has placed a lot of pressure on herself to do well and has prepared assiduously to do so and make Guyana proud.
The team comprises McDonald, Belony, Gafoor, James Krakowsky, Fred Collins and Ulric Harris, while Orlando Michael and Ruby Cummings are the standbys.
Collins was the first even Caribbean champion.
Meanwhile, Hope in his response said that Digicel was pleased to be on board, but urged GASP to do more to attract more players to the sport, especially children from schools across the country.
He wished them a successful tournament.