Gala Ceremony to mark official opening of Inter-Guiana Games today

The spirit of regional sporting unity takes centre stage today as the 2025 Inter Guiana Games (IGG) officially gets underway in Guyana, bringing together the next generation of athletes from the three Guianas: Guyana, French Guiana, and Suriname.

The tri-nation event, which caters to student-athletes aged 14 to 18, will be inaugurated with a high-profile opening ceremony at 09:30h at the National Track and Field Centre, West Coast Demerara.

Dignitaries and government officials from all three participating nations are set to attend, reinforcing the long-standing diplomatic and sporting ties nurtured by the IGG for nearly six decades.

The IGG remains a vital platform for youth development, allowing young athletes to showcase their talent on an international stage.

This year’s competition features six core disciplines: swimming, athletics, basketball, volleyball, futsal (boys only) and chess.

“We’re expecting an exciting IGG,” Ninvalle stated.

“The three countries share a rich history, and the IGG has played an integral role in shaping our diplomatic relations over the years. It is something that this Government under President Irfaan Ali takes seriously.”

The competition maintains a tradition that dates back to its inaugural event in 1967.

The initial framework was shaped by figures like former national footballer ‘QT’ Donald, with the first discipline contested being Football for the prestigious Forbes Burnham/Johan Pengel Trophy.

Ninvalle confirmed that the National Sports Commission (NSC) prioritises the preservation and continuity of the Games, adding: “It is our responsibility to ensure the Games are executed at the highest standard. We owe it to the young athletes and to the legacy of cooperation built through sport.”

The competitive action officially commences at 11:30 am, with host nation Guyana looking to defend its track and field trophy on home soil.

Chess begins at the National Racquet Centre, while the National Gymnasium hosts Volleyball with Guyana taking on French Guiana in both male and female matches.

The Cliff Anderson Sports Hall becomes the centre of attention with the Women’s Basketball competition tipping off with Guyana facing French Guiana, followed by the Men’s encounter between French Guiana and Suriname.

The day’s events conclude with Futsal, pitting Suriname against French Guiana under the lights.

The Inter Guiana Games run daily until Sunday, promising intense competition across all disciplines.