The Caribbean’s first Government-funded Squash Doubles’ Court –located at the National Racquet Center on Woolford Avenue in Georgetown — has been opened in the Land of Many Waters on Saturday morning.
In attendance at what has been described as a historic achievement for Guyana’s Squash Association was none other than President Dr. Irfaan Ali; who, with assistance from some of the country’s junior players, conducted the official unveiling of the plaque.
During the opening ceremony, squash player Ashley Khalil declared that she views the opening of the facility as an indication of the sport’s bright future in Guyana.
“Today marks a milestone for squash in Guyana. Today we celebrate the grand opening of new squash courts. What’s most special about these courts is that squash players, for the first time in the Caribbean Region, will benefit from a doubles’ facility. Today I stand with pride as a member of the Guyana Squash Association and as a squash athlete, knowing that the future of Guyana’s Squash is taking on a new, positive appearance, it indicates that there are opportunities abound for the future of the sport in Guyana,” Khalil remarked.
Now having set sight on hosting major international squash events, GSA President David Fernandes spoke of the value of the Government’s investment, which has amounted to some $68M.
Fernandes shared, “The investment made will undoubtedly strengthen our sports culture, bringing people together in a shared national pride, creating stars from many walks of life who will represent Guyana globally. I see myself as a leader holding the baton of sport for this moment, and I’m confident that those who come after me will find their own unique ways to provide the opportunities for you.”
He added, “I’m hopeful that the legacy we all are part of and the security of the support that we receive will allow us to continue to grow and succeed on every level: as a community, as a fraternity, as a nursery, as an academy, as a nurturing ground for elite players, and as a symbol of pride for all of us.”
Then he declared, “This facility actually positions us to be able to host international events. We had one last year. We didn’t have the seating, but everyone who came to Guyana felt very proud of what we were able to achieve. Thanks to the Government and the Ministry. I think (that), with the accommodation being afforded us, coming in the very short horizon, that we can see ourselves maybe even hosting Junior Pan American Squash Championships in 2026.”
When he took the microphone, Guyana’s Head of State expressed elation at seeing the facility being commissioned, citing such infrastructure as a key part of Guyana’s budding sports economy. He also expressed hope that the facility would be a ‘safe space’.
“The investment is sports is part of our comprehensive National Infrastructure Plan, and is part of our socio- economic transformation,” the President divulged. “I’m very pleased today that we can celebrate this accomplishment; and I hope that we can continue to build on this, and that there’s greater understanding of where we’re positioning Guyana and the build out of the sports economy that will be an important part of our transformation and our wealth creation strategy.
“Sports is essential for healthy living, but we cannot have facilities that does not support certain important components. These facilities must be safe spaces. Our athletes and families must come here and feel safe and be safe. Our public facilities and parks must be safe spaces, it must be family and community-oriented.”
Further, the Head of State
committed to have the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport see to the facility having air conditioning installed.
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