Sport Ministry illuminates Parade Ground

Georgetown’s historic Parade Ground, steeped in sporting and sombre historical significance, has been illuminated.

This marks another step in the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s nationwide project to enhance recreational and sporting facilities.

Spearheaded by Minister Charles Ramson Jr., the lighting project at the ground, nestled between Waterloo and Carmichael Streets on Middle Street, will benefit many users.

By day, it serves as a vital space for school pupils, while in the evenings, the Beacon Football Club hone their skills.

Now, with the installation of floodlights, the club can extend their training sessions into the night, significantly boosting their preparation.

Otis James, President of the Georgetown Football Association, praised the government’s commitment, highlighting that “at least 90% of clubs” under his purview now enjoy the benefits of lighted training facilities, a testament to the government’s fulfilled promises.

For Gordon ‘Ultimate Warrior’ Brathwaite, a coach with deep roots at the ground, the lights represent a “dream come through.” He recounted his long association with the venue, stretching back to his primary school days at St. George’s in 1961.

With Beacon Football Club approaching its 40th year of training at the ground in September, Brathwaite expressed hope for further development, including the construction of stands.

The National Trust of Guyana has detailed the Parade Ground’s history, which adds a layer of poignant context to its transformation.

In the early 1800s, the site was used for the execution of enslaved people, a stark reminder of the nation’s past.

Its establishment as a parade ground for British troops and local militias followed a formal complaint in 1812 by Lieutenant-Governor (Major-General) Hugh Lyle Carmichael, who deemed the existing facilities inadequate.

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Ground Enhancement

Over 250 grounds received upgrades, with 100 hinterland communities receiving $1 million for their development in 2024.

The 2025 National Budget further reinforces this commitment, allocating G$8 billion towards sports advancement.

G$2 billion is specifically earmarked for the continued development of community grounds, building on the success of the 450 grounds that benefited in 2024.

An additional G$1 billion has been allocated to procure and install lighting systems at grounds nationwide.