Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport Charles Ramson Jr. has delivered words of advice and encouragement to the eight athletes who are set to represent Guyana at the Commonwealth Youth Games from August 4-11 in Trinidad and Tobago.
The Minister met with the young athletes and officials moments before they departed for the twin-island republic for the Games, dubbed Trinbago 2023.
Ramson Jr. remarked: “On behalf of the government and people of Guyana, I wish you every success and we are grateful for your service. Congratulations on being selected as national representatives. It is an honour and privilege to represent one’s country, and do so with honour, pride, distinction and to the best of your abilities.”
He further emphasised the government’s commitment to developing sport in Guyana.
“As a government we are working and making the strategic investment in developing the sporting landscape and industry.”
Reflecting on his own life experiences, Minister Ramson referenced the potential and positive impact sports has on moulding one’s life.
He outlined to the selected student athletes to use the experiences of sport to expand their horizon, growth and development.
“In your young and budding careers filled with so much potential, you are on the pathway to excellence and it’s critical that you remain disciplined as students of your sport and life.”
Minister Ramson Jr. implored the athletes to use the opportunity of the games and the current position they are in to inculcate the right habits and create the attributes, attitudes and mindset that would see them maximising and realising their full potential in sport and life.
“Know that you have worked hard, sacrificed, have the talent and potential to do of your best, meet new friends in your downtime, discuss training regimen, adopt a resilient, positive and growth mindset as a key ingredient for realisation of your potential and talent as you embark on this wonderful journey.”
TEAM GUYANA
The Games will feature seven disciplines of athletes and para-athletes between ages 14 and 18.
CARIFTA medallists Tianna Springer, Javon Roberts, Attoya Harvey, Malachi Austin and Narissa McPherson will compete in Track and Field, with Julian Edmonds performing the role of coach.
In Swimming, Ariel Rodrigues, Elliott Gonsalves and Shareefah Lewis will take to the pool, with Syhka Gonsalves performing coaching duties.
Completing Guyana’s contingent of 13 are Dr. Victor Allen, Physiotherapist Vanessa Wickham and Team Leader Nalini McKoy.
The swimmers will commence competition on August 6, while the athletics team will display their talent a day after.
