The Georgetown Softball Cricket League Inc. officially launched the inaugural Vice President Cricket Extravaganza set for November 17-19.
Vice President, Dr Bharrat Jagdeo attended Wednesday’s launch at the Muslim Youth Organization and expressed his delight in collaborating with the tournament, given that it will bring people together through sport and entertainment.
Jagdeo indicated that President Dr. Irfaan Ali vouched for the credibility of the organizers and explained how it aligned with the goal of converging people in safe spaces for entertainment.
The Vice President further noted that as a government, they recognize the need to diversify investment into varying sectors.
“Today, we are using less than 10% of revenue to service debt, and our debt is amongst the lowest in the world. We have a capability now to invest more in what is considered important sectors but not necessarily bread and butter issues, and that is sport and entertainment, and recreational facilities throughout Guyana”, Jagdeo indicated.
The Vice President highlighted that apart from the major facilities being constructed in Linden, Anna Regina and Berbice, he met with sport officials and athletes from Region Six to identify grounds for upgrades.
As such, $400 million has been allocated to upgrade 125 grounds, some of which will have standard lights installed, and “in matter 60 contracts would be awarded for the upgrades.”
Similar projects were started in Georgetown, East Coast, West Demerara, and the hinterland communities. He noted that the stadium at Palmyra is not government-funded but rather through an agreement with ExxonMobil.
Meanwhile, the softball tournament will be played at the Demerara Cricket Club, Queen’s College Ground, Transport Sports Club, and Enmore Community Center Ground.
The finals are at Police Sports Club and will be streamed live by FL Sport.
Over G$1M is up for grabs as 16 teams battle in three categories – Legends (Over-50), Masters (Over 40) and All-Stars (Open). The three Most Valuable Players will win motorcycles.
