Heartfelt congratulations to our athletes who competed in the just concluded 50th CARIFTA Track and Field, and Swimming events in The Bahamas and Curaçao. From afar we embraced you during your challenges, cheered for you, and shared your joys and triumphs giving of your best under trying circumstances and conditions.
Each athlete is applauded for his/her individual role, representing the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and our Golden Arrowhead in a way that makes every Guyanese proud. You have demonstrated what indomitable will is, for despite the mismanagement, embarrassment and trials surrounding your travels and accommodation organised by the sports and political administrations of Guyana, you beat the odds. You have made us more proud to be Guyanese because whereas others would have buckled or quitted you persevered and brought honour to your mission.
Your perseverance not only epitomises the mental clear-sightedness associated with competitive sports but also reflects the Guyanese spirit to persevere and succeed in spite of the odds.
This is your moment on the national stage. Your moment not only for deserving applause and accolades, but recognition that adults can learn lessons from our children, who put a smile on their faces and gave of their best even when not treated the best and probably did not feel at their best, knowing they deserved better than they were served.
To the athletes who secured medallions, job well done! To the others, whereas a medallion eluded you this year you are also our brave champions for reaching the heights of our Caribbean sports to represent your Native Land. Continue to pursue your passion and dreams. Show us what it is to work for the love of country, to give of your best so that every single Guyanese can enjoy the success and pride that came from your dedication.
The Government of Guyana and Sports authority are called upon to make the return home and welcome of our Guyanese contingent much smoother and better than their send off. As our team of champions return to Guyana, efforts should not be spared to ensure that each athlete is fully rewarded and duly recognised as the champions they truly are. We must take this opportunity to recognise our glorious motto of One People, One Nation, One Destiny in celebration of our athletes, and transcend beyond sports in every field of activity, every national endeavour to bring love and harmony, peace and equity to every citizen of Guyana.
