No Aliann Pompey Invitational this year

The fifth Aliann Pompey Invitational, Guyana’s premier track and field event, will not be contested this year, owing to coronavirus pandemic.

The brainchild of former national athlete and four-time Olympian, Aliann Pompey, the event has over the years provided a platform for local athletes to match skills with several high-ranking overseas competitors.

A Facebook post on the Aliann Pompey Invitational page read on Friday: “It’s with sadness and great concern that I inform you that the API will not be contested this year, due to the rising concerns and risks associated with COVID-19. I pray that you and your families and loved ones remain safe during these difficult times. As always, thank you for your continued support and we’ll see you in 2021.”

This year’s event was set for June 6.

In February last, Pompey and World Athletics had announced that the Aliann Pompey Invitational will be included on the 2020 Continental Tour. The inaugural meet hosted 11 athletes who went on to compete in the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio.

“It’s a tremendous opportunity not just for the Aliann Pompey Invitational, but for Guyana and athletics in the region,” Pompey said. “We’re one of two events that will be held in South America. I think this speaks to the commitment of the meet’s sponsors. For the past four years, they’ve supported the vision for the meet and its importance to the development of sports in the country and in the region. This is a collaborative effort with so many pieces.”

The tour will span across six continents and offers athletes the opportunity to receive world ranking points that will count toward the 2020 Olympic Games and World Championships.