Excitement galore as group ‘paints the town red'

Excitement galore as group ‘paints the town red’

Nov 04, 2013 Sports

As the uninitiated approaches the Pattensen East Coat Demerara community, he/she may be greeted by popping sounds that permeate the air. Closer examination reveals what appears to be a battlefield as several individuals, completely dressed in battle gear, adroitly attempt to evade or avoid

Some of the ‘fighters’ are geared up and ready for battle.

being ‘shot.’
Actually, it is a group that is engaged in Paintball warfare, a relatively new vocation that offers a chockfull of fun for participants. Chris and Reona Cathro of Planet Paintball club are the organizers and they explained that the sport originated in the USA as a family oriented, non lethal sport.
They also said that a game can last for as much as 30 minutes and the participants are equipped with air guns and a set of paintballs. The two teams are at opposing ends of the ‘battlefield’ and the objective of the game is to infiltrate the enemy lines without being ‘killed.’
The battlefield is decorated with several makeshift buildings that provide cover and aid in the strategic advancement or withdrawal of the fighters. Once a fighter is hit, the ball explodes and a smudge of paint indicates where he was ‘shot.’ Points are allotted according to the area of contact; he/she could also be considered ‘dead’ if hit in certain areas.
“The game is a lot of fun and is family oriented,” explained Reona. She said that those interested in participation may visit the venue and rent the equipment; an air gun fitted with a small gas cylinder, 45 paintballs, helmet and other protective gear, for a minimal fee of $2,800. “They will just love paintball,” she exhorted.
Reona or Chris can be reached at telephone numbers 668-2344 or 691-0708 and 218-2516 for any details on the operation at Planet Paintball.