Suriname edge Guyana to win Goodwill Inter Guiana Games

The visiting delegation following last night’s closing ceremony. (Orlando Charles photo)
The visiting delegation following last night’s closing ceremony. (Orlando Charles photo)

The 2016 Inter Guiana Games (IGG) is a wrap.

The hosts and Suriname shared in the spoils of the three-day, seven-discipline Goodwill tournament which concluded last night at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

In the end however, Suriname was victorious after tallying a total of 91 points while Guyana scored 85.

Suriname were victors in badminton (male and female), basketball (male and female), volleyball (female), futsal and swimming (male and female).

Guyana won team championships for table tennis (male and female), track and field (male and female) and volleyball (male).

During the closing ceremony, local Director of Sport, Christopher Jones praised the athletes that excelled in their disciplines. He also thanked the media for coverage and the visiting contingent for making the fixture a success.

Jones then stated that the IGG continues to foster camaraderie among the nations and trumpeted his continued support in the event.

He also noted that Guyana’s government is committed to supporting sport at all levels.

During his speech, Suriname’s Director of Sport, Luciano Mentowikromo noted that the value of the IGG should not be underestimated.

“It has been shown that sport is a strong tool to strengthen the relationships between the two countries. That’s why the value of the Inter Guiana Games should never be underestimated.”

Mentowikromo added: “On behalf of my country, I want to give Guyana a well-earned compliment for you have done everything in your ability to make sure that all these youngsters get the opportunity to come to your country to compete with each other. These youths are the leaders of the future and the earlier we can create a bond among them, the better our future will be.”

Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Ivan Persaud then delivered the vote of thanks to close the curtain on the Games.