Dear Editor,
Swimming in Guyana is facing a troubling reality—one that threatens the growth and competitiveness of our athletes on the regional and international stage. At present, the country relies heavily on a single national facility to prepare swimmers, yet even that system is failing those it is meant to serve.
The 50-metre pool at the National Aquatic Centre, a critical training ground for elite and developing swimmers alike, is currently nonfunctional and inaccessible to clubs and athletes. This has left swimmers without the standard facility required to train effectively for high-level competition. For a nation aspiring to compete in regional events such as the Goodwill Games, CARIFTA, and the South American Championships, this is a serious setback.
Equally concerning is the absence of the National Schools Swimming Championship, which has not been held for the past two years. This event was once a cornerstone of swimming development in Guyana, bringing together young athletes from across all regions. It served as a vital platform for talent identification, competition, and national unity through sport. Its removal has created a significant gap in the competitive calendar, leaving athletes with limited opportunities to test and improve their skills.
The lack of consistent competitions further compounds the problem. Without regular exposure to competitive environments, swimmers are left underprepared and disadvantaged when representing Guyana internationally. It raises an important question: how will our athletes be adequately prepared for upcoming events? Or worse, are we heading toward a future where Guyana is unable to field swimmers at all?
Ironically, while there are efforts such as the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport’s “Learn to Swim” programme aimed at developing grassroots talent, there is a glaring disconnect. Teaching children to swim is only the first step—without proper facilities and structured competition, that talent cannot be nurtured into excellence.
This situation calls for urgent intervention. Charles Ramson Jr. and the Ministry must prioritise the rehabilitation of the Aquatic Centre pool and ensure it is accessible to athletes and clubs. The investment in infrastructure is not optional—it is essential for national development in sport.
The image of frogs occupying a national pool intended for athletes is both symbolic and unacceptable. Guyana’s swimmers deserve better. With timely action and commitment, the pool can be restored, competitions reinstated, and athletes given a fair chance to excel.
The future of swimming in Guyana depends on it.
Your truly,
Nima Flue- Bess MP
