Kings and Queens of the Track
– District 10 crowned winner of National Schools’ Championship again
– Harmon reassures of govt commitment to sport development
DPI, Guyana, Saturday, December 1, 2018
On Friday evening, at the National Track and Field Centre, it was ‘déjà vu’ as District 10 was again crowned victors of the National Schools’ Championship. Held for the 58th time, this makes it four wins in a row and 17 overall for the Upper Demerara/Kwakwani District.
With a synthetic track slated to be constructed in Region Six, East Berbice-Corentyne, it is believed that the District 10 may well continue their dominance at the biggest sporting event afforded to student-athletes in Guyana.
There was a tie for the second position, between District 11 – North Georgetown and District 13 – South Georgetown and District Three – Essequibo Islands-West Demerara finishing third.
Minister of State, Joseph Harmon congratulated all the athletes for their participation and putting on a show for the hundreds that turned out to lend their support. The minister noted that the government remains committed to the development of athletes in Guyana highlighting the construction of two synthetic tracks to be completed next year.
He encouraged the athletes to continue to mould their talent even if they did not medal at the event.
“I wish to commend all of the athletes and officials from the 15 school sports districts for their outstanding performances throughout the competitions. Each athlete should see himself or herself as a winner since having reached this far has taken courage, resilience and perseverance and I urge you whether you have broken a record or not, whether you have won or not, to continue your quest for excellence in your respective sports discipline as well as in your academic and future career endeavours” Minister Harmon underscored.
In his remarks, Chief Education Officer, Marcel Hutson said that the students during the six days of heated competition exhibited the spirit of enthusiasm for the sport. He noted that those who were not victorious should not be disappointed but rather use it as a motivator to better themselves.
“Events such as these are meant to showcase the talent of our young people rather than only recognising winners. Sports teaches us how to work in harmony with other people, accept defeat with equal ease and work as a consolidated unit; and you all are a testimony to this today. Strive for excellence in your field” he said.
Major sponsor of the event – Banks DIH, was applauded for ensuring the much-anticipated event happens every year since its commencement in 1959. Organisers of the National Schools’ Championship looking forward to 2019, say it is already anticipated to be much bigger and better.
Isaiah Braithwaite.
Images: Giovanni Gajie.