South American 10k promises keen rivalries this Sunday

The unlikelihood of any foreign competitor at the 19^th edition of the South American 10k in Guyana, once again makes it an all-Guyanese tussle to the finish.

The usually exciting race returns to its traditional spot on Carifesta Avenue, heads up to the East Coast and returns to conclude in the National Park, unlike 2020 where athletes competed on the West Coast Demerara.

Orin Thomas, Vice-Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, indicated on Friday they are expecting keen rivalry and some fast times given the hard work throughout the year by the athletes.

Thomas revealed they are looking in the vicinity of 45 to 50 Guyanese athletes, but there is a slim chance foreigners may arrive to compete.

At the last event, the top three spots in the male event went to Winston Missigher, Cleveland Thomas, and the young Sir Kennard Hartog in that order, and it is likely the winner will spring from that trio yet again.

On this occasion, Thomas is hoping he has what it takes to cop first place after what he deemed to be a year of hard work which has enthused him that he could potentially run in the 31-minute marker.

The National Sports Commission, Banks DIH Limited through its Rainforest and Powerade brands, Star Party Rentals, Guyana Energy, and Benjamin Bakery have thrown support behind the event.

The top finishers in the senior male and female categories will secure a winner’s prize of US$1,000 with second place claiming US$600 and third US$400 along with trophies. Prizes will also be given in the Junior and Masters divisions.

The race will start at 15:30h on Carifesta Avenue close to the GTT Earth Station and will proceed along the East Coast Highway and return to finish in the National Park.