NSC, GCB make donation to clubs, schools in Region One

May 15, 2016 Sports

By Zaheer Mohamed

The National Sports Commission and the Guyana Cricket Board on Thursday donated sports equipment to several clubs and schools in Region one following a T20 fixture at the Mabaruma Settlement recreation

Director of Sport Christopher Jones (center) with representatives of the various clubs and schools after the presentation.

ground.
Those clubs that received sports gears are Kumaka Warriors SC, Dynamite SC of Mabaruma Township, Jaguars of Mabaruma Settlement, Wanaing Youth and Sports Club of Mabaruma Sub Region, Barimanobo SC of Barabina Waini and Barabina Warriors SC. Hosororo and Mabaruma Primary schools were the recipients of kiddy cricket kits from the GCB.
Thousands of residents converged on the venue for the event which was organised as part of the Guyana’s 50th Independence anniversary celebrations in Region one and was seen as an effort to promote the game there.
Although the home team went down to the GCB Select XI, the fans there enjoyed every moment of the match and made the most of opportunities to interact with their local heroes which included Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Tremayne Smartt, Shimron Hetmyer, Keemo Paul, Tevin Imlach and Robin Bacchus who was born in the Region.
Speaking with Kaieteur Sport, Director of Sport Christopher Jones said that they received several requests from various communities and was happy to assist with the development of sports there. Guyana female world boxing champion Gwendolyn O’ Neil and athlete Cleveland Forde originated from Region one and Jones expressed delight with the interest shown the by the residents for sports. “I am very much happy with the turnout at the game, it shows that there is a craving for sports in the Region which is very encouraging and the ministry will embark on a similar exercise with the Guyana Football Federation in the near future”, he added.
Jones stated that they will continue to assist with the development of sports there. “As part of the ground enhancement initiative where we are now giving communities $10M, the Mabaruma ground is one of the venues earmarked for development and lights will also be installed there so the youths can practice for longer periods,” Jones said.
The director indicated that the NSC will be working closely with the Municipality and RDC to give athletes an opportunity to showcase their talent. “I have learnt that many youths in the area may qualify in time for athletics event, but due to the geographical location it is very difficult for them financially to participate, however we will make arrangements to have those athletes display their skills outside of their Region.” He expressed gratitude to Mitzy Campbell (one of the organisers), Sky West, George Melville (Global Technology) and the Guyana Cricket Board in making the event a success.
Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley said he is happy that the venture was a successful one for it will help to motivate the youths there. He explained that the district has a lot of potential not only in cricket but in other disciplines and if given an opportunity he is confident the youths can do their country proud.