Dear Editor,
I would like to congratulate the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPF) on their recent success at the South American Powerlifting Championships in Cali, Colombia. Moreover, I would like to applaud the hard work, dedication and discipline of the two Guyanese athletes who were outstanding in their performance.
True to his now legendary status, John ‘Big John’ Edwards dominated the over 120kg M1 (Masters) category winning gold for Guyana. The other Guyanese athlete, BerbicianVijai Rahim, lifted his way to a silver medal in the 59kg Men’s Junior category. Congratulations to these gentlemen and their sponsors.
The GAPF continues to raise the Golden Arrowhead proudly throughout the world of powerlifting. Its athletes are committed, highly trained, and exceptionally disciplined with an insatiable appetite for success. Throughout recent years, Guyana has proven to be a formidable force with which to contend, upon entering any powerlifting championship both regionally or internationally.
It is however regrettable that the federation could have sent only two athletes to this prestigious championship. This must not be mistaken for its shortage of strongmen and women, but rather its inability to secure adequate sponsorship from corporate Guyana. Much work remains to be done in the strategic marketing of the sport of powerlifting and the acquisition and retention of corporate sponsors. Perhaps the federation might want to reassess its branding strategies and seek to align itself with strategic partners from which they can mutually benefit. The GAPF cannot do its work alone; it needs tangible assistance from corporate sponsors. Guyana’s powerlifting needs some strategic alliances in the Guyanese business community. It is time for some of our notable brands to rally behind the GAPF. It is time for them to truly support champions.
The GAPF possesses a penchant for success. Its athletes are some of the most dedicated and disciplined in the local sports arena. Therefore, it is only fitting that these athletes receive tangible support from corporate sponsors, as they seek to represent Guyana internationally, and further develop the sport of powerlifting in Guyana.
The hard-working executive of the GAPF should continue to advance the sport of powerlifting in Guyana through their unparalleled dedication and commitment.
Yours faithfully,
Richard Francois
