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Overseas based Guyanese cyclists continue to show benevolence
Present boxing gear to local gym
By Samuel Whyte
While some don’t remember where they originated, some do. One such person who is always trying to do something for his homeland is overseas based Guyanese Franco Crawford. As a former member of the Flying Ace Cycle Club of Berbice
Franco Crawford (2nd left) stands with (from left) Howard ‘Battersea Bomber’ Eastman, Neil ‘Grizzly’ Humphrey, Orland ‘Pocket Rocket’ Rogers, professional boxer Richard Williamson, Guyana Super Middleweight champion Dereck ‘Lights Out’ Richmond, while stooping is top amateur boxer Jamal Eastman.
and a top cyclist on the local shores, he continues to support his homeland, if not in cycling, in whatever way possible, be it sports or other community activity.
Crawford, who hails from Berbice and now resides in the United Kingdom, decided this time that he will assist those in the boxing fraternity. Back home on holiday, Crawford used the opportunity to present boxing gear to the Orland Pocket Rocket Boxing Gym at their Headquarters, at the PNC/R building at Strand and St Magdalene St New Amsterdam, Berbice. Among the equipment donated were a heavy bag (punching bag), speed ball set, exercise and pull up rack and boxing gloves. The presentation was the first made by Crawford to the boxing fraternity in Berbice.
Speaking at the simple presentation ceremony Crawford stated that, “I am always happy to be able to return to Guyana and give back to the home country and community.” He mentioned that he is very impressed by the talent that is available at home in the many disciplines, but many cannot go forward, because of the lack of opportunities and sponsorship. He said, “I have been coming here year after year and I have seen great potential in some of these kids. But it’s sad that they cannot afford to equip themselves for the various disciplines. What is more hurting is that because of a lack of support some of these youths cannot even train for their events.” He vowed to do whatever he can to assist as much as possible.
He remembered his ‘small boy’ days when things were tough and he does not want to see the youths go down that road. He is calling on other overseas based Guyanese to remember where they came from and come forward and assist the youths, hence they would fall by the way side.
He also thanked his cousin, former National Footballer and sports enthusiast Neil ‘Grizzly’ Humphrey for arranging and coordinating the activity with the boxers.
Gym founder and coach Orland ‘Pocket Rocket’ Rogers expressed gratitude on behalf of the gym and wished Crawford all success in the future. He stated that more community minded, business persons and overseas based Guyanese should take a page out of Crawford’s book and continue to assist those at home.
Rogers also reprimanded what he called the ‘big’ officials in Georgetown. He vented his disappointment in the performance of the Guyana Boxing Association, who he stated has neglected Berbice. “For the year we haven’t received anything from Mr. Ninvalle. I cannot say what they are doing.” He also expressed similar disappointment about the performance of the Guyana Boxing Board.
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