$2M National Youth Games launched

THE inaugural $2 million National Youth Games was launched by Sports Minister Roger Boynes at the VIP Lounge, Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo, yesterday.

In his feature address Minister Boynes said the event “marks the start of the journey towards providing the youth of our communities with the opportunity to shine. “Through the Youth Games, the Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs will re-affirm its belief that sport is a cohesive factor in building character, and in building communities,” he continued. The inter-community club games, in four categories — small-goal football, windball cricket, netball and basketball — will be contested throughout the next three months with the grand finals at the Eastern Regional Sporting Facility, Tacarigua, in August.

Events are open to persons between the ages of 15-35 while, according to Boynes, several community co-ordinators will be working alongside members of the Sports Ministry, Local Government Ministry and Works Ministry, as well as the popular CEPEP (Community Environmental Protection and Enhancement Programme), in earmarking and upgrading facilities for use during the Games. Boynes continued: “Through this project, our youth population will gain another perspective on life as they combine the rudiments of true sportsmanship to the challenges of everyday living and the attainment of their future goals and aspirations.” But the Minister urged the business sector to pledge their support for the venture, noting that “your investment today will guarantee us a safer, more productive tomorrow.” Among the companies pledging financial assistance in the sum of $250,000 apiece are National Gas Company and the Unit Trust Corporation.

The event promises great incentives for youths, with the Most Valuable Player in the respective Community Championships receiving a $100 voucher and free access for one year to all sporting events at the five national stadia - Hasely Crawford, Larry Gomes, Ato Boldon, Mannie Ramjohn and Dwight Yorke, while the MVP of the National Championships will be awarded a $500 voucher. The total prize structure, including the top three teams in the Community and National Championships, is $393,000.