Dear Editor,
I’m writing to express my deep concern over the continuing disregard for the sport of cycling in Guyana by the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport, the Commission of Sport, and the Guyana Olympic Association. This neglect was most recently and painfully evident in Guyana’s failure to send a team to the just-concluded Junior Caribbean Cycling Championships, a crucial event for the development of our young athletes.
Despite their tireless efforts and commitment to representing Guyana on the regional stage, our junior cyclists lacked the necessary support to participate in this significant championship. This failure not only undermines their hard work and dedication but also sends a discouraging message to all young athletes who aspire to excel in the sport of cycling.
A critical question arises from the lack of support for our junior cyclists: Will Guyana’s hosting of the upcoming Caribbean Elite Cycling Championship on November 2–3, 2024, be subject to the same disregard? This event represents a golden opportunity to showcase Guyana’s commitment to cycling and position our nation as a serious contender in the sport within the Caribbean. However, without the necessary backing and resources from the very institutions meant to foster sports development, we risk not only failing our athletes again but also damaging Guyana’s reputation on the international stage.
The Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport, the Commission of Sport, and the Guyana Olympic Association must recognise the importance of their roles in supporting and promoting all sports, including cycling. Their current inaction and lack of commitment to the sport are unacceptable. They must act immediately and firmly to provide our cyclists with the necessary support to compete and achieve success.
As the Caribbean Elite Cycling Championship approaches, I urge these institutions to prioritise the necessary funding, logistical support, and infrastructure improvements to guarantee a successful event. Our cyclists deserve better, and it is time that they receive the recognition and support that is their due.
I also call on the broader cycling community, the public, and all stakeholders to demand accountability from those responsible for the development of sports in Guyana. Let’s make sure our athletes receive the respect and attention they deserve.
Thank you for your attention to this pressing issue.
Yours truly,
Ryan Maraj
Former Cyclist
