He was born on March 6, 1953 and in a mere few weeks would be celebrating his 59th birth anniversary yet his crisp gait and agile movements belie this fact.
He sports a healthy stock of ‘dreadlocks’ and graying beard; the only evidence that he is advanced in age.
He is Carlton Stephenson and has earned the sobriquet ‘Corn man’ after perfecting the art of boiling corn to a delectable consummation using local products the likes of coconut milk, a variety of seasonings the likes of thyme, eschallot and peppers which, when simmered produces an appetizing product that sells like hotcakes.
Additionally, ‘Corn man’ is a health enthusiast who subscribes to the view that healthy eating supported by rigorous exercises contributes to longevity. It is this belief that has inspired him to become involved in marathon events and in 2002 completed a 23 miles journey from his home village, Sophia, all the way to Soesdyke and back to the place of origin.
Thereafter, the senior athlete has made the event into a yearly ritual and this year he plans to journey from his Sophia base up to the Uitvlugt Community Centre WCD, one day before revelers take to the street for the 2013 Mashramani Float Parade.
Stephenson has no qualms going the journey all alone but he wishes to encourage other fitness conscious citizens to participate in the event. “I am appalled at the vast talent locally that is not being adequately exploited,” he lamented. He feels that Guyana has a lot of talented athletes that are yet to realize their potential and he has christened the event as an awareness run to bring this anomaly to the fore. “I love sports and despite my age I participated in the South American 10K race in 2011,” he revealed. Mr. Stephenson is also planning an event on Emancipation Day, August 1 next, also from Sophia to Uitvlugt and back to the place of origin. He is currently engaged in a mobilizing process and has targeted youths to participate in the event. He is also appealing to the business community and other well wishers to support the event with the requisite sponsorship. He remains adamant that young people could use the experience to improve their standing, not only as athletes but as health conscious individuals. He could be reached at tele # 683-3119 or 672-7322.