Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 27 02 2017

No more willy-nilly use of drones Page 12

No. 104837 MONDAY FEBRUARY 27, 2017

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

Hope for Albouystown youths

–– residents look to mining to tackle youth unemployment

Berbice Mash attracts hundreds

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Some of the young revellers moving through the main thoroughfare of New Amsterdam during the Mashramani Float and Costume Parade on Sunday (Photo taken from junior Education Minister Nicolette Henry’s Facebook page)

Butcher killed in Pouderoyen accident Page 5

Decline in IDB loans

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–– Jordan says Guyana paid 131% more than it recived in loans

Bandit shot trying to disarm police Page 5

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

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Hope for Albouystown youths

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

–– residents look to mining to tackle youth unemployment

By Svetlana Marshall APPROXIMATELY three years after their application for two blocks of mining lands were rejected by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) residents of Albouystown are forging ahead with their plans.

“We applied for two blocks in 2014 and after a royal run around, we were told to return and collect our monies,” Randolph Thorne, Chairman and Founder of the True Vision Foundation told Guyana Chronicle.

True Vision Foundation, a not for profit organisation, was established in 1995 with the aim of creating employment opportunities primarily for young and vulnerable youths within the community of Albouystown.

Cognisant of the fact that many of the young people in the community were faced with the issue of unemployment, the foundation in 2014 applied for two blocks of mining lands in Buck Hall in the Essequibo Islands, West Demerara region with the hope of creating much needed employment.

However, its vision of entering the lucrative industry was met with a stumbling block, when the foundation received a letter from GGMC indicating that its application was rejected and a refund for the $70, 000 paid will be made available.

Three years after, Thorne said he is happy that all hopes have not been lost. He said when the foundation heard of the Natural Resources Ministry’s announcement that mining syndicates will be given special preferences;

the requirements stipulated by the Natural Resources Ministry and GGMC. “So far, we have nine interested persons, and instead of two blocks we will be applying for eight blocks this time around – six blocks

on board who will be financing the initial stage of the operation.

FIXED SOURCE OF INCOME “I see it (mining) as an advantage for the un-

for their families.

A very outspoken Dexter Hatton told this newspaper that the syndicate will provided much needed employment for the youths of Albouystown.

“It will help them to get

Members of the True Vision Foundation from Albouystown. From left to right: Founder of True Vision Foundation Chairman, Randolph Thorne, Arlene Khan, Leon Adams (small miner), Dexter Hatton, and Benjamin Mascoll it knew that now is the opportune time to reapply for mining lands.

Currently, the foundation is in the processing of forming a sub-organisation: the True Vision Foundation Syndicate in an effort to fulfil

in Puruni and two blocks in Karrau,” Thorne told this newspaper.

A confident Thorne said when the application is approved; the syndicate will begin operation soonest, noting that it has a donor

employed youths in Albouystown,” he posited, noting that once employment opportunities are made available to them, they will have a fixed source of income, and as such would be able to provide

rid of the get rich syndrome whereby they will now be employed gainfully, earning their own money,” Hatton posited.

He said too that the syndicate will also provide an opportunity for residents to

raise their standards of living.

Hatton said too that Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, ought to be applauded for reaching out to small and potential miners who have been experiencing many challenges within the industry, contending that the National Syndicate Project is an excellent initiative.

Leon Adams, 48, said he had to down his equipment and return to Albouystown because there was “no land to work.”

“I had a four inch dredge and I had to cut it down because we didn’t have land to work,” he told the Guyana Chronicle.

With his experience in the field of mining, Adams said he was encouraged by Thorne to be a member of the syndicate. Optimistic about the future, Adams said once all goes well he will be able to put his dredge back into operation.

Arlene Khan and Benjamin Mascoll, two other members of the True Vision Foundation expressed similar sentiments, saying that bright days are head for the people of Albouystown.

Thorne and his team were among small and potential miners who had attended a meeting with Minister Broomes at the Natural Resources Ministry on Friday to discuss the National Syndicate Project.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

Navigating discrimination ––– LGBT community urges stronger State support

By Ravin Singh THIRTY-six-year-old Queenie (not real name) sits on a culvert on Hadfield Street, in central Georgetown, just as she does every Saturday night. Her burgundy handbag is full of condoms and her make-up is just right – not too heavy, not too light, for, as she says, she’s “not a teenager anymore.”

Nearby, middle-aged men with faces reddened by the glowing street lights prowl around like vultures stalking their prey. On any other night, the veteran transgender sex worker might have been among their targets.

But tonight the only thing she will be offering is advice

Monday, February 27, 2017- 05:00 hrs Tuesday, February 28, 2017- 05:00 hrs

Akola Thompson and condoms to her fellow sex workers who arguably comprise the most vulnerable group in Guyana.

The 2014 Guyana Bio-Behavioural Surveillance Survey (BBSS) reveals that the HIV prevalence among transgender sex workers was 10.39 per cent, while the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) reports that female sex workers are disproportionally affected

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by HIV, with a prevalence of around 16 per cent, compared to an adult prevalence in Guyana of 1.2 per cent.

Nineteen-year-old Mandy (not her real name) comes by to see her. They greet with a hug, and after a quick catch-up, Queenie reminds the younger woman to use protection.

“She’s working tonight so I know she doesn’t have much time to talk,” she explains. Soon, others begin to trickle by. Many of them are boys, as young as 15, and Queenie’s condoms quickly disappear into their pockets.

According to the BBSS, which was published by the National AIDS Programme Secretariat, there are about 401 known transgenders who

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socialize openly in Guyana.

There are no statistics on how many of them are sex workers. However, sex work, which is among the oldest profession in human history, is illegal in Guyana.

Queenie explains that it is common for transgender sex workers to be treated in a discriminatory manner, at and by State institutions because of archaic laws.

Having been a victim

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of this type of oppression when she was younger, the sex worker has committed herself to helping not only sex workers, but members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transgender (LGBT) community avoid having to depend on state institutions for help.

“Most of them are made fun of, looked down upon, and are even refused basic welfare services by these institutions because of their sexual orientation and gender identity,” she laments.

The heart-rending story of Patrice (not real name), who is a transgender, is testimony to this. A victim of interpersonal violence, Patrice relates that she has been made a “mocking stock” more times than she could count, by police officers and medical personnel.

Her story is one of routine abuse by her sexual partner who, at one time attempted to stab her with a pair of scissors in public. She remembers noticing bystanders who were not moved by what they were witnessing.

“People were just looking and nobody was doing anything,” she says, adding that it was a popular journalist who came to her rescue and relieved her then partner of the weapon.

MADE FUN OF The abused woman then made her way to the Alberttown Police Station where she was “discriminated against and made fun of” after revealing her “male name” to the officer who was taking the report.

As if things couldn’t get worse, she then visited the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) for medical attention, but, was once again discriminated against because of her gender identity.

“This was nothing new though because at all the police stations I visited, I was

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SASOD Managing Director, Joel Simpson made fun of,” she explains.

Interestingly though, it is not only those who seek assistance from these institutions that face discrimination, but even those who attempt to offer assistance through these institutions.

Twenty-one-year-old Akola Thompson has tested these waters.

Just recently, the mother of one who identifies as bi-sexual was prevented from donating blood because of her sexual orientation. Four years ago, she donated blood at the blood bank which graciously accepted it after quizzing her thoroughly.

Fast-forward to 2017 and Thompson was again faced with the same questions.

This time however, she admitted that she was involved in same-sex relations, which unfortunately disqualified her from being a blood donor.

“The person [at the blood bank] asked questions which I expected, but then she asked me if I ever had same-sex relations and I said ‘yes’, and she said ‘sorry’ she couldn’t accept the blood because they have a policy against it,” she reveals.

Acting Director of the See page 16

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

Butcher killed in Pouderoyen accident A BOURDA Market butcher returning home was killed in an accident on the Pouderoyen Public Road, West Bank Demerara (WBD) Saturday night.

Dead is Bhagwandat Roopchand, 60, called “Preacher” and “Kishore” of lot 13 Bella Dam, Pouderoyen WBD. Reports indicate that the father of three was walking on the pedestrian crossing around 19:00hrs when he was hit by a Toyota PTT8019.

The hit reportedly flung Roopchand across the road and he landed in front of another vehicle.

The driver of that vehicle assisted in taking him the West Demerara Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead 30 minutes after.

Police said Motor Car PTT8019 was proceeding north along the western side of the road when it collided with the pedestrian who was crossing from east to west.

As a result of the impact, the pedestrian was picked up in an unconscious state and rushed to the regional hospital where he was admitted and later succumbed.

Police tested the driver and found him to be above the legal alcohol limit. He and the vehicle were taken into police custody at the Vreed-en-Hoop Police Station as investigations continue.

Daughter of the deceased Melissa Roopchand told the Guyana Chronicle that her father would have celebrated his birthday on March 6, but that was cut short because of the

Dead: Bhagwandat Roopchand accident.

She said her father was the only breadwinner for the family and was an easy going, loving and jovial person.

Relatives said Roopchand was a butcher for over a decade and was a hard worker who dedicated his energies to his family. Investigations indicate that the driver of the vehicle and the accident victim share family ties.

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The vehicle which collided with Bhagwandat Roopchand on the pedestrian crossing, Pouderoyen Public Road

Bandit shot trying to disarm police A SUSPECTED bandit wanted for several armed robberies was shot in the knee Sunday morning after trying to disarm a police ranks while being escorted to the station.

guard at a West Demerara Hospital.

The suspect is in a stable condition, nursing a single gunshot wound to his right leg. Ramlakhan explained that at about 05:45hrs Sunday

Press Officer, Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan, said the 24-yearold male suspect wanted in connection with several armed robberies on the West Bank of Demerara (WBD), is under police

morning, police ranks arrested the suspect in a house at David Rose Street, Bagotville, West Bank Demerara, and as he was being escorted to a police vehicle, he allegedly assaulted and

tried to disarm a rank of his service weapon.

This caused the rank to discharge a round, hit-

ting the suspect below his right knee.

An investigation is in progress.

gnnleditorial@gmail.com

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 27, 2017

Editorial

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

People often take for granted, and even ignore, what they consider small things, but these are the very things that are needed to keep society moving along smoothly, and in some cases every person would find it difficult to do without.

The teacher who goes to bed late at nights because he or she has to mark the day’s assignments and prepare the notes of lesson for the next day, would simultaneously be juggling the needs of the home and family. He or she will stand on his or her feet for hours a day in front of a classroom, imparting knowledge, and coaxing responses from students with diverse abilities and behaviours.

These moulder of impressionable minds also double as parents, counsellors and dig into their pockets to

provide the supplies needed to ensure the delivery of their lessons. Theirs is a primary responsibility to prepare the nation’s human capital to be productive to self and nation, thereby realising growth and development.

Some see the vendors as menace to society yet they daily anticipate customers’ needs and wants and seek to provide that service. Many times as you walked pass the memory is jolted that they are selling something you need. Sometimes the item can be purchased at reduced price, or receive a little extra being considered a ‘regular customer,’ or honed the skill of bargaining. With the usual ‘thank you’ having made a purchase from them they are reminders that even in the rough and tumble of daily living courtesy can still find

a home.

They are loud, sometimes you feel valued or violated depending on how you are approached, but in what has become a hustle to eke out a living by providing a particular service, the hire car and minibus drivers are an embedded feature of our culture. They move us from point A to B and without them commuting would be a challenge.

Noses will be turned up at the stench of garbage and the garbage collectors who are considered on the lower rung of the socio-economic ladder. Imagine a world without this essential service provider. None like to have to be around garbage or can stand its stench yet someone has to properly dispose of it and they have taken up the job.

Were it not for them there

would be risks posed to public health and the presence of an unsightly environment none likes.

To know the value of your mechanic is to have the car giving trouble and realise how tedious it can be to rely on another for transportation.

It is only the mechanic who understands your ‘baby’ or God’s blessings’ and can fix it. As he or she gets all greasy, tinkering with the engine, trouble shooting the problem, to make that engine purr perfectly, you are free of the headache and can look all clean and dandy.

Their schedules some won’t want. Others cannot bear to hear persons groaning in pain, nor could stand the sight of blood or would not clean up the bodily discharge of another. They are those who do these, and more, dai-

Complaint against GRA Dear Editor,

Please permit me space in your newspaper to express my utmost dissatisfaction with the level of professionalism displayed by the Guyana Revenue Authority when addressing issues that

does not record an increase of their revenue.

I refer to a current situation that I have with the GRA with regards to excess income tax that was deducted out of my 2015 annual income. As is required, every individual must submit an annual dec-

laration of their individual income tax and whilst preparing same for the accounting period 2015, I discovered that excess monies were paid to the GRA. I have since written the GRA highlighting this oversight and also

requested a refund of the excess, as we approach the junction of another annual individual income tax declaration, I thought it best to visit the GRA Camp Street Office to inquire about my concerns.

To my dismay, I was reliably informed by an

PPP jittery about SARU bill L o o k i n g t h ro u g h t h e morning newspapers on Sunday, I came across an interesting story from the PPP complaining that the Coalition Government is not really interested in finding out about the truth about corruption in recent decades but was more

concerned with spiting ex-Cabinet ministers and high ranking officials for alleged corruption.

Editor, nothing could be further from the truth as it is widely known that every conceivable public infrastructure and other project during the 23-years of the

party in office was publicly identified as being the dollar gift that kept on giving millions to those in charge.

But more importantly Mr. Editor, might be the fact that Parliament is about to debate and possibly approve the SARU bill. No doubt this has sent jitters among the

ranks of those at Freedom House who are comfortably living on the proceeds of the fat made while in office.

SOCU is also doing its thing and has the benefit of the legal advice of none other than Madam Justice Claudette Singh SC in its corner.

Editorial: 227-5216; 227-5204 guyanachronicle.com wnigel10@hotmail.com gnnleditorial@gmail.com

Editorial

ly while smartly dressed in white. They are our nurses.

They nurse the sick back to health, provide the patient and family the psychological comfort of knowing they are in capable hands, hands that do their best and all within their powers.

Then they are the men and women in uniform- military and paramilitary services- whose job it is to keep us safe, be it in fire, crime, border security, national defence and so forth. We depend on them but often times only value them when a mess up occurs. Image what it would be like were they to abandon their posts.

When life’s journey is

over, the tasks of preparing earthly remains and disposing them with dignity are that of the morticians and grave diggers. The importance of these persons are often only seen at this time, yet the work they do, in addition to avoiding health hazards, aid in helping loved ones bring closure.

These are some of the nation’s unsung heroes without whom our lives will be adversely affected. These persons go about their daily business, have become fixtures and at times irritants in our lives, but we need to recognise and appreciate the invaluable and unquantifiable services they provide.

employee of the GRA that processing for refunds for the year 2015 has not yet commenced. I pause to calculate the year that we are living in if 2015 processing has not yet commenced.

One must stop to wonder if the Guyana Revenue Authority indirectly intends to be a burden on the citizens of Guyana while serving the very citizens.

I have in the past sub-

mitted late returns to the GRA and I was heavily fined for this neglect on my part.

Abraham Lincoln once said, “Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves.”

Readers would recall that the PPP made no real attempt to pay its Ministers big fat salaries as they appeared to be more concerned with simply having access to the corridors of power since all that could flow from same.

Still, a protracted court fight looms and it would be interesting to see the reaction of the party if and when the first ex-high ranking

official is handcuffed and paraded up the steps of any court.

The party has said that “if and when the charges come, they will be strenuously defended.” A very interesting period looms.

We shall see how all this ends.

Yours sincerely, ALISTER BURKE Taxpayer

Yours sincerely, AKEEM BENNONS

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 27, 2017

A 5-year plan for Constituency 14 Dear Editor, Community Development is noble work. After ten months in office as Councillors of Constituency 14: South Ruimveldt / Ruimveldt Industrial Estate, yours truly and Noelle Chow-Chee have seen tangible gains. As 2017 commenced we have been meeting with community leaders, aimed at producing our Five Year Strategic Plan for Constituency 14, ‘A Strong, Resilient Community.’ Such a Plan captures the vision for our Constituency while being a tool for continuity; a working document and a measure for the development of our community.

Constituency 14 hopes to be the first in five (5) areas: (1) Producing a Strategic Plan for the Constituency, (2) Publishing its own Newsletter/Newspaper, (3) A sustainable community sanitation programme, (4) A Flood Resilient Constituency (5) Champion of GREEN initiatives.

SECURITY Constituency 14 has two active Community Policing Groups and another in its embryonic stages. It is our hope to create more such groups, which bolsters the work of our national police, providing the first line of defence for our residents.

We hope to continually provide capacity building by working with the Community Policing Organisation of Guyana (CPOG), and related agencies. We intend to secure Constituency 14 with the utilization of CCTV Cameras with links to a Policing Group Command Center in our Constituency.

COMMUNICATION We will improve our engagement with residents at regular intervals, especially engaging our youths towards community work.

Residents ideas and feedback are also invaluable. We intend to fully utilize social media assets (residents can at Facebook Page, “Constituency 14”) as well and traditional media, as such this ‘Letter to the Editor’.

We also believe that a physical newsletter/newspaper

has its place in bridging our information and communication gap. Additionally, we are in talks with radio station 93.1, which is headquartered in our Constituency, to allow us a 15 – 30 minutes programme to bring residents up to date with community news. We aim for a culture of engagement and empowerment.

HOUSING REGULARISATION There are two areas is the Constituency where “squatting” is taking place.

Our vision is to ensure that both areas meet the minimum housing standard. We have already engaged the Central Housing and Planning Authority CH&PA) for assistance in making sure this is a reality.

Additionally, we aim to encourage home builders in our community to ensure as far as is practical that homes are environmentally friendly, and energy efficient if not totally solar powered, inclusive of lighting used for open spaces. We intend to engage the Guyana Energy Agency towards this end, cognizant that home design, and layout impacts energy cost.

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT Our Constituency must be a leader in our solid waste management capabilities. We have been examining the ‘Cleanliness and Citizenship – Community-Led Total Sanitation’ (C&C-CLTS) framework.

Such an initiative “presents a programme for communities to progress from clean-up campaigns, to a sustainable environmental programme to motivate, mobilize and organize communities to reduce the practice of ‘Open Garbage Disposal’ (OGD) and clean up communities so they become ‘Open Garbage Disposal Free’ (OGDF) and environmentally friendly; this is done by igniting and sustaining a change in sanitation and environmental behavior,” according to specialist Audreyanna Thomas.

More broadly, we will continue to engage our National Integrated Solid

Waste Management Strategy, especially focusing on issues like household composting, biogas generation aimed at reducing organic waste, recycling. Additionally, we intend to engage the Ministry of Communities as partners in implementing its public awareness campaign aimed at introducing primary schools students to the concept of waste separation and educating them on the benefits of adopting safe waste disposal habits.

100 PER CENT RATES & TAXES COLLECTION We have an appreciation that a large part of expenditures for services provided

by City Hall comes from revenues received from Rates & Taxes. We will continue to encourage residents at every opportunity to do their part in paying their Rates and Taxes so that they can enjoy all the city services available to them.

FLOOD RESILIENCE With the submission of the Dutch Risk Reduction (DDR) Team’s final report, ‘Analysis of Drainage System in Georgetown, Guyana’ (2016), we seem closer to mitigating floods and their effects from South Ruimveldt since the DRR Team’s work focused primarily on South Ruimveldt as a catchment area. According to the Team’s Final Report, “Using the input from the local drainage system analysis, measured geometric data and simplified boundary conditions a full model of the South-Ruimveldt catchment was developed. This model can be used to assess and compare the effect of different interventions.”

We intend to continue to engage the inter-agency task force put in place to manage and improve the drainage in Georgetown: comprising City Hall, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority and Ministry of Communities.

We intend to put together, also, a Community Flood Response Team of Volunteers.

EFFICIENT MANAGEMENT OF OPEN SPACES Constituency 14 is a beautifully laid out expanse of real estate. Our trees are priceless, knowing that they influence meteorological and climatic effects at all scales of a city, from parks to entire neighborhoods. Our open green spaces then becomes our treasures to our residents, especially our children. We intend to produce a policy that preserves the trees in our Constituency while encouraging residents to grow more plants, especially vegetables, ensuring that we are the garden of the Garden City’.

These are but some of the broad areas we will be focusing on as well as continuing the work of our Constituency Manager Brenda Williams and her

team in the area of our remedial learning programme with free meals for student and an children feeding program for children in the locality; as well as our empowerment program with a specific focus on women.

As well as capitalizing on the ‘Citizen Security Strengthening Programme’ with it skills training aimed at reducing crime and violence among our youth.

Additionally seeking out other opportunities which will benefit our youths.

In the article ‘5 Essential Factors for Creating a Framework for Municipal Resiliency,’ Cathy Rust notes that the fifth factor is “Tenacity to implement the vision.”

Rust states that, “The best way for this to happen smoothly is to create an open dialogue with your stakeholders – business,

residents, local institutions etc. It is through these discussions, workshops, capacity building and constant communication that progress toward a resilient community can be best achieved.”

This is a fact we know firsthand. We will continue to work with all our partners who have been integral to our success over the last ten months and well as we are eager to bring on board new ones, predominantly those which for the Industrial Site area of Constituency 14, as we advance the development of our Constituency together.

Yours faithfully, Councillors SHEROD DUNCAN; NOELLE CHOW-CHEE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

Poor drainage hampering Buxton farmers

By Shauna Jemmott

FARMERS of Buxton/ Friendship have com plained that though they are trying to make a massive comeback in agricultural production, the drainage system in their community makes way for flooding.

The farmers, who operated under the registered cooperative society the Kryenhoff’s Empolder, registered owners of the Buxton/ Friendship Grantees, said they have been facing set-

backs over decades now with major parts of the farms being destroyed to accommodate works of past governments.

They have been motivated by President David Granger’s President’s initiative for the creation of a green economy, and have already fixed over 500 new plants in the ground.

Going forward, however, is a challenge as they have to cope with a drainage system which was re-designed decades ago.

“They change up the

drainage network in 1989… when they change up the network, all these place was trees… so they had to grade down them trees,” Leror Hamer, Chairman of the group told the Guyana Chronicle.

He said a dam was constructed high between the sucker beds and the main canal for some distance through the farmlands on Brusche Dam, Friendship.

It is now impossible for the water from the beds to drain directly in the canal and the water now runs a distance

Farmer Leroy Hamer, shows Guyana Chronicle photographer Samuel Maughn a desalted drain in his farm

Fighting for survival: A female Friendship/Buxton farmer keeps on going despite the odds (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

north to south before meeting a passage out into the canal, which was dug when the PPP Government bulldozed the farm to flush out criminals.

“They put it high that when the water meet up to the mouth, inside the bed gon flood. That was 1989 and since 1989 to date, the onliest time this sucker drain maintain is when them did grade down this piece of place (in 2008), from where they stop the grading down they dig out the sucker drain and come out,” Hamer said.

He said recently engineers visited the area and cleared some drains, but never communicated with the farmers to understand what their needs are.

Hamer said although they are willing to farm on a larger scale, that problem along with a shortage of market, would become major set-

backs.

“From there go up certain part yuh ain’t even get no sucker drain so how the water gon come out? You ain’t even get no gutter for no water to come out, so how yuh telling people fuh farm and yuh just come and dig out deh and gone? Me ain’t want nobody come round me to try to mek mock off of me. I is a farmer I know wha I gatto do, I know wha gatto do. Deal with me as a farmer!

You have an engineer, you engineer supposed to listen to we, document and make recommendation… but when you coming and doing yuh own thing I can’t support you because me ain’t benefit nothing from wha you coming and do.”

The co-op chairman said some farmers became discouraged when the place was bulldozed a second time

in 2008, and even now when excavator operators traverse the area to dig drains, they throw down plants that seem to be in their way, even some that could have remained.

This has not stopped Hamer for farming which he said is in his blood.

“Psychologically, that is wha deh doing, so after a time we must geh fed up and leave it. But not me. Fuh me they gatto carry way the land.

When deh carry it and I know that no more land ain’t deh, I cyan do no more planting.

When you talk bout real agriculture… Leh we put the right systems in place… We need the dam, the trench, the sucker drain the tubein to bring out the water and then we gon talk bout farming,” Hamer said, adding: “Is a long time they failing we.”

A canal in the backdam on Brusche dam that needs to be cleaned

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

Decline in IDB loans –– Jordan says Guyana paid 131% more than it recived in loans –– reminds bank of mandate to constituency members FINANCE Minister Winston Jordan last Tuesday called on the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to remember its mandate to provide financial assistance to members within its constituency.

Speaking at the Pre-Governor’s meeting held at the IDB headquarters in Washington, United States, on February 21, Minister Jordan noted the decline in the number of loans granted in 2015.

“Mr. President, we remain concerned with the bank’s loan approvals for our constituency members in 2016.

Excluding Suriname, there were nine loans approved for a total of $264M, less than twothirds of the amount approved in 2015. Loan approvals to Jamaica declined by 57 per cent while no loan was approved for Trinidad and Tobago. This worrying trend, which was first observed in 2010, continues today. Whereas $900M was approved in 2010, by 2016 this had fallen drastically by 70 per cent to $264 M. And while the total approvals for the period 2010 – 2016 was $3.5 B, 77 per cent of this amount went to two countries and a mere 7.5 per cent went to the poorest member of the constituency.”

The finance minister noted too that the perspective expressed by many donor countries that the bank has suffered “some strategic drift” is not “wholly incorrect” as from all indications the role of the bank has evolved into focusing on increasing prosperity in Latin America and the Caribbean rather than decreasing poverty.

“But what is regrettable is that the perspective that the bank is not very focused on eliminating poverty, is, also, not easily defensible.

A quick review of the net flows between the bank and the Caribbean constituency members does little to debunk this view: Overall, again excluding Suriname, the region received total disbursements of $367M, and paid principal, interest and fees totaling $263.6M – implying a positive net inflow to the region of $101.7 M.” DISAGGREGATION REVEALING Jordan said a disaggregation of the numbers is quite revealing and showed that Guyana, the only Group D member also an FSO eligible country – paid the bank 131 per cent more than it received in disbursements.

In fact, comparing the interest income received by the bank with disbursements

the invaluable support of our donor partners and the confidence of the borrowing members. I ask only that the process of planning and programming be made more intentional, and that the focus remains true to the Charter.”

Finance Minister, Winston Jordan to Guyana shows that the bank made a handsome profit of almost US$1M. “… good business if you are a commercial bank, but very disappointing for an institution focused on development,” the minister stated.

He said too that a look at the 2017 Operational Programme Report shows that there is a great likelihood of a continuation of the trend given that Guyana has zero funds programmed.

“Changing this situation and breaking the trend requires using the creativity, innovation and wisdom that we know the bank possesses.

But it is important that the bank identify specific areas for attention. If we continue along the same path, we may be better served to cease borrowing and ask to be paid dividends on our shareholdings from the bank’s profits – certainly, Guyana would be better off,” said Minister Jordan.

The finance minister made it clear that it is not the responsibility of those in leadership posts to make excuses but to find ways to conquering fears, overcoming adversities and building a better society.

He said it is for that reason that the IDB remains a partner with many territories.

“As a cooperative, the group gives us access to shared knowledge and experiences that provide valuable lessons. As a cutting edge institution, with a warehouse of talent and brains, we gain access to creativity and innovation. And as a financial powerhouse, we are provided with a sustainable source of development financing,” he said.

Jordan noted that it is easy for established and stated goals to become “empty words” if the very established strategies and actions do not “stay true to the mandates of the Bank’s Charter and the GCI-9 Agreement.”

“When this happens, we all suffer because we lose

The finance minister said as he looks ahead to discussions on replenishing the Multilateral Investment Fund (MIF), the aforementioned must be taken into consideration.

He said in January 2016,

Guyana had prepared to host the Pre-AGM meeting but that was aborted and reverted to Washington because the bank was short of funds.

“This is the second year that this meeting is being held in Washington with-

out any clear indication as to when the meetings will return to the Caribbean,” said Jordan who called for the meetings to return to the region and that each territory gets a chance to host the meetings.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

Those teenage years

IF YOU are the parent of an adolescent child (aged 14 to 18) no doubt you have already had that ‘all

important’ talk; the one where you’ve explained to your child why it is best not to engage in sexual activity

and for them to focus on their school work at this stage of their development.

You need to talk to them

because during adolescence young people’s hormones tend to run a little wild and without parental guidance they can get caught up in situations they are ill-equipped to deal with. E.g. the complexity of sexual relationships, contracting sexually transmitted diseases, and teenage pregnancies to name just a few. If you have young adults at home, which one of the following parental examples do you identify with?

Parents’ number 1) These parents turn a blind eye to what their adolescent child is ‘getting up to’ when he/ she goes out: They rather not know. The child might be sexually active or not: which might result in a pregnancy or might not: The Parents have a ‘come what may’ attitude, they are too busy to get fully involved in their child’s life.

Parents’ number 2) While they might have a notion that their offspring may be sexually active, they are in denial. They prefer not to think about it and are too embarrassed to enquire. Deep down they are hoping their child has enough sense to practice safe sex although they have never talked to him/her about delaying sexual activity until adulthood or contraception.

Parents’ number 3) These

parents don’t mind that their child is sexually active because the child looks almost fully developed and seems capable of taking care of him/ herself. The parents covertly encourage the child to be independent and to fend for him/herself.

Parents’ number 4) These parents know fully well that their child is not sexually active because they communicate with their child on a level where the child understands what is expected of him/her. As a family they have discussed sex and contraceptives and have concluded that sexual activity is for adults: while teenage years are for studying, developing and discovering which direction the child wishes to take in the future. Above all, these parents give their child a sense of security and direction.

If you identify with parents’ number 4 you are guiding your child towards a positive future. No parent can be with their adolescent child 24/7 therefore furnishing them with knowledge to make informed choices seems to be the best way to protect them from indulging in early sexual activity.

Young people need parental guidance to give them a sense of purpose, an aim in life and

to help them stay focussed.

However if parents are to have an impact on their child this level of communication should start when the child is young and change to suit as the child grows. It is harder to build and maintain this type of relationship if the child is already an adolescent.

Explaining the disadvantages, the risks and complexities that surround early sexual activity and the importance of contraception, does not automatically mean your child will want to try it out.

It does mean however, that your child is knowledgeable about some important facts that could help save his/her life and prevent other unnecessary traumas.

When children start to transition into adulthood it is simply Mother Nature doing her thing, just like she did for you: and if it were you, wouldn’t you want a caring adult to share relevant information with you: information for life?

If you are concerned about the welfare of a child ring the CPA hotline on 227 0979 A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF SOCIAL PROTECTION

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

No likely issue with referendum

FORMER House Speaker and Attorney Ralph Ramkarran believes that should the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) uphold the ruling of the Court of Appeal in the presidential term limits case, neither side of the political divide should have a problem having a referendum.

The Court of Appeal by a two-one majority on Wednesday upheld the High Court ruling that the presidential term limit is unconstitutional and void.

Attorney General Basil Williams and Speaker of the House, Raphael Trotman had appealed against the decision by former Chief Justice, Ian Chang, in 2015 to remove the presidential term limit here.

The case was brought by Cedric Richardson, a resident of Georgetown, just before the May 2015 General and Regional Elections, to challenge the Amendments made to Article 90 of the Constitution that were enacted in 2000 following a bipartisan Constitutional Reform Process.

Justice Chang ruled, among other things, that the presidential term limit was unconstitutional without the approval of the people through a referendum.

However, in his weekly column, Ramkarran said the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) and the governing APNU+AFC coalition Government have unanimously supported the two-term limit on presidents and noted that in the case of the PPP, it was that party that unanimously decided in 1994-5 to propose to the Select Committee on Constitutional Reform of the 6th Parliament (1992-1997) that a president only serves two terms.

He noted too that the said party did not change its position to the Constitutional Reform Commission in 1999-2000 which he chaired.

“The two-term presidential limit, supported by the PNCR, was adopted by the Constitution Reform Commission and formed part of its recommendations. Article 90(3) of the Constitution was duly amended by Act No. 17 of 2001, unanimously passed in the National Assembly, to limit the presidential terms to two.”

THREE WAYS The former Speaker reminded that the Constitution of Guyana can be amended in three ways: by a simple majority, a

–– should CCJ uphold third term ruling, says Ramkarran Congress (PNC) support a two-term presidential limit and former President Bharrat Jagdeo has stated that he has no interest in running for a third term, then the “outcome of a referendum would be a mere formality.”

“It would be expected, of course, that the leadership of the PPP would resist internal Former House Speaker Ralph Ramkarran two-third majority and by referendum. Article 90 requires a two-third majority to be altered.

Ramkarran noted that the “unlimited right to hold the position of head of government will inevitably lead to authoritarianism and corruption,” and cited leaders like Dr Cheddi Jagan and Mrs Janet Jagan and Desmond Hoyte who all supported term limit.

“Both main political parties should, therefore, have no difficulty in supporting a referendum. For those who might be tempted, if the CCJ upholds the Court of Appeal, the Bolivia experience is salutary. The electorate recently rejected the attempt by the popular President Evo Morales of Bolivia to secure a constitutional amendment by way of a referendum to run for a third term,” he stated.

The attorney noted too that if Attorney General Williams and Attorney Roysdale Forde, attorney for Trotman do not succeed at the CCJ in their appeal against the ruling of the Court of Appeal, then the Government will have to hold a referendum.

“The PPP would have no reason not to support it. A convenient time would be for a referendum to piggyback on Local Government Elections in 2019 to save costs.

The Government may wish to complete the constitutional reform process by then so that if a referendum is required on other issues, it can be held at the same time.”

Ramkarran said the matter is one of great jurisprudential interest and constitutional importance, pointing out that if the CCJ upholds the decision then the issue becomes one of “expensive inconvenience” to hold the referendum.

NO INTEREST He believes that since both the two main stream political parties, the PPP and the People’s National

calls, if made by orchestration or otherwise, to change its long-standing position in support of term limits,” added Ramkarran.

In an article published on September 3, 2009, entitled “Term Limits,” the astute Attorney noted that most countries in Latin America impose term limits while most countries in the Westminster

system and in Europe, do not have term limits, with a few exceptions, like Singapore and Malaysia.

“The mixed success of, but unmistakable trend towards, term limits, is demonstrated by the situation in Congo where President Kabila is attempting every ruse to hold on to power, but is being pres-

sured to uphold the twoterm limit.

This situation is yet to be resolved. On the other hand, giving a nod to reality, former British Prime Minister, David Cameron, undertook to serve only two terms. In the Caribbean, there are frequent changes of governments but no term limits,” said Ramkarran.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

No more willy-nilly use of drones

By Alva Solomon

FROM today, photographers, enthusiasts and operators of drones will be required to seek permission of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) to operate the unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

In recent months, drones have become the preferred choice of mainly professional and amateur photographers and some media outlets for

use in capturing still and video images of national events as well as for recreational photography, including the capture of landscape images.

In an advertisement which was published in the Sunday Chronicle over the weekend, the GCAA issued a directive effective February 27, 2017, stating that no person shall operate a UAV in Guyana’s airspace without first having received written permission from the GCAA.

The GCAA noted that the directive is not applicable to the use of a UAV which is seven kilograms or less in weight and which is not being used for aerial work or commercial activity or which does not have the capacity to transmit or receive information other than that required to control the flight of the vehicle.

In that regard, smaller drones without camera or audio features may be operated

without the permission of the aviation body.

According to the GCAA, persons who wish to operate UAVs shall apply to the GCAA in writing for approval and provide the aviation body with details of the intended operation.

GCAA said the use in obtaining, recording to transmitting information, whether the machine is visible while in the air or otherwise, the operator may submit a

Image of a DJI Phantom 4 model drone (dji.com) request in writing which includes the name and address of the applicant and the company for which he / she is working , if the latter is applicable.

The application process includes the provision by the applicant of a drawing or reference map indicating the geographical area over the area intended for operation, details of the aircraft to be used including its make, model, serial number and its dimensions.

The intended date and time of usage, purpose is also required by the GCAA. In addition, the operator should provide proof that he/she has liability insurance pursuant to the Civil Aviation Regulations currently in force.

The GCAA also said that notwithstanding the direc-

tive, all relevant laws apply to the use of UAVs including the Criminal Law Act, Customs Act and the Telecommunications Act of Guyana.

The operation of UAVs, mainly drones has been largely unregulated in most jurisdictions, although in the United States, concerns have been raised about their varying uses.

As such, from December 21, 2015, all hobby type UAVs between 250 grams and 25 kilograms were required to be registered with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The use of UAVs in the US for law-enforcement purposes is regulated at a state level while those for use in commercial purposes carry additional requirements including certification of the pilot- in- command.

Berbice Mash attracts hundreds HUNDREDS of persons lined the main thoroughfare of New Amsterdam to witness the costume and float parade, held in observance of Mashramani, which is celebrated nationally on February 23.

While the crowd expressed disappointment with the display of only four floats, which represented the Region Six Democratic Council, the Department of Education, Regional Health Authority and the Police Youth Clubs of Berbice Division, others were pleased with the presentations.

The event brought persons from outside the township to mingle and celebrate, and among those who lined the roadway was Regional Executive Officer, Kim Williams Stephens.

She lauded the effort of the Special Event Committee, noting that the event fosters unity among the people.

Also in attendance was Regional Chairman, David See page 14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

STEMGuyana launches Grade 6 Math app today THE STEMGuyana Project team will today launch their Grade 6 mobile Math app at the National Racquet Centre, Woolford Avenue, Georgetown.

The launch will be held at 11:00 hrs. The mobile Math app was created to help the more than 14,000 children of Guyana who will be taking the Grade 6 exam at the end of April each year.

During the summer of 2016, STEMGuyana hosted more than 200 students in four robot building and programming camps held in Georgetown, Buxton and Lusignan.

The Grade 6 mobile Math app launch was made possible by the full support of the Office of the First Lady of Guyana and the Ministry of the Presidency.

The STEMGuyana team

also met with National Centre for Education Resource Development (NCERD) Director, Jennifer Cummerbatch, and has gained the full support of that organisation within the Ministry of Education, responsible for the development of STEM Education.

“We envision working with NCERD to improve

the functionality of the app, to test the outcomes, and to improve the distribution to students and classrooms across Guyana,” said Karen Abrams, Co-Founder of the STEMGuyana project.

President David Granger and First Lady Sandra Granger are expected to attend the launch.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

Berbice Mash attracts ...

From page 12

Armogan, Deputy Executive Officer, Claude Henry, Director of Health Services, Jevaughn Stephens, Chief Executive Officer of the New Amsterdam Hospital, Colin Bynoe and other prominent members of the New Amsterdam Township.

During the parade which commenced at Tacama Turn, in the vicinity of Islington, North of New Amsterdam, Berbice Police Commander, Assistant Commissioner Ian Amsterdam, led the largest contingent of over a hundred youths, drawn from clubs across the division.

Another group which garnered much participation was the Regional Health Authority, led by Bynoe.

The revellers gyrated to music of the mobile boom, boom boxes while the elderly and the young children swayed to the rhythms.

Fast food stalls, bar-b-que grills, bouncing castles and game booths sprung up in the sleepy township as beverages began to flow freely in the afternoon.

Members of the Department of Education float in action on Sunday

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

Private sector mourns Joseph’s passing

THE Private Sector Commission has extended condolences to the family of veteran trade unionist Kenneth Joseph who passed away last Thursday.

Joseph was a member of the National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE) and the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana at the time of his passing.

“The Private Sector Commission has collaborated with Mr Joseph on a number of issues over the years and has been impressed by his insightful contributions to our dialogue. It was a pleasure to work with Mr Joseph and we are deeply saddened at his passing,” the commission said in a statement.

He died at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), after

suffering a stroke attack.

Joseph was born on June 25, 1951, at Sparendaam, East Coast Demerara, to Una and Cyril Joseph.

He was married to Waveney Joseph and was the father of six children and 17 grandchildren.

Joseph worked at Linden Bauxite Industry and when that Industry was closed he was employed by the Guyana Sugar Corporation at the Albion Estate

Kenneth Joseph

in the Field Workshop and became a member of NAACIE. With the urge to represent workers and his leadership qualities, he became a representative of NAACIE and was elected general president of the union.

On July 1, 2002, Joseph was seconded to the union’s head office as the general president.

He served in this position

until he was appointed as general secretary on June 1, 2006.

He was also general secretary of the Federation of Independent Trade Union of Guyana (FITUG) and was recognised and awarded the Arrow of Achievement medal by the Government of Guyana.

Joseph dedicated most of his life fighting for workers’ rights, strength and unity.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

Navigating ...

From page 4 Blood Bank, Dr. Pedro Lewis, when asked if there was such a policy, responded in the negative, explaining that an individual would only be deferred if they had multiple sexual partners within the last 12 months.

But Managing Director of SASOD, Joel Simpson disagrees with Dr. Lewis.

Simpson, who has been at the forefront in the fight for LGBT rights, shares that when attempting to donate blood, persons are specifically asked if they engage in same-sex relations.

Thompson again joins in, adding that a friend of hers was asked that specific question as recent as two weeks ago, and denied the opportunity to donate blood.

‘EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED’ Speaking about her experience, the young mother said she was “extremely disappointed” to learn that such a policy exist, for the simple fact that she could have simply said she was “straight” and approval would have been granted for her to donate blood.

“There are stereotypes attached to having a different sexual orientation.

People think that because you have a different orientation, you are morally loose,” Thompson decries.

Similarly, in the legal arena, LGBT advocates are battling to have what they consider “discriminatory” cross-dressing laws struck down.

Presently the law allows for cross-dressing once not done for an “improper purpose”. However, the technicality in what constitutes “improper” allows for discrimination to continue at the discretion of the perpetrator, Simpson says.

It was only last week that SASOD and the Guyana Trans United (GTU) wrote to Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Carl Singh, concerning the actions of City Magistrate Dylon Bess, who on multiple occasions, barred transgender women, denying recognition of their gender identity in his court.

The “improper purpose” proviso is currently subject to an appeal made by representatives of the LGBT community seeking clarity on what it means.

A ruling is expected to be made today

by Justice Carl Singh, acting Chief Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, and Justice Brassington Reynolds.

TOP DOWN APPROACH To eradicate state discrimination against persons who identify as members of the LGBT community, Simpson believes that there needs to be a ‘top-down’ approach, where the laws are amended to protect these individuals.

SASOD is calling for an amendment to the Prevention of Discrimination Act (1997), to include “sexual orientation and gender identity” as grounds for discrimination. The inclusion of “sexual orientation” into the act will protect persons who identify as lesbian, gay and bi-sexual, while “gender identity” will protect transgender persons.

Prohibited grounds for discrimination according to the law in its present form are: “race, sex, religion, colour, ethnic origin, indigenous population, national extraction, social origin, economic status, political opinion, disability, family responsibilities, pregnancy, marital status or age…”

Additionally, the human rights group is calling for an amendment to the Non-discrimination clause in Article 149 (2) of the Constitution. In this article, Simpson again notes that the words “sexual orientation and gender identity” are missing, which allows for discrimination of persons who fall within those groups.

The Managing Director of SASOD explains that these are laws which sanction discrimination and the exclusion of those groups allow for persons to be discriminated against, with no legal recourse.

He offers that inclusion of those two groups into the law will allow for two things; firstly, for persons to be punished if they discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation and or gender identity; and secondly it will act as a deterrent for persons who discriminates against persons in the LGBT community.

“Unfortunately, discrimination happens in every sector of the lives of LGBT persons. It happens in the workplace, in social settings, in the medical field, in housing, and so on. When you leave discriminatory laws, as is happening now, it will continue to happen. And what is interesting to note is that LGBT is the only group that faces discrimination in the law” he laments.

Meanwhile, President David Granger, has since expressed his support for freedom of choice by LGBT persons in Guyana. On December 31, 2015, the President during his weekly media briefing, “The Public Interest,” said that “I am prepared to respect the rights of any adult to indulge in any practice which is not harmful to others.”

With no action taken by the administration since then, SASOD has issued several calls for the Government to put its words into action.

“While the word of the President is a step in the right direction, it is just words. It is unacceptable for the Government to say they do not discriminate and no efforts are being made to change these discriminatory laws” the managing director of SASOD contends.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 27, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 27, 2017

India hope Pune rout acts as a brutal wake-up call Mission accomplished!

By Sudipto Ganguly |

PUNE, India,(Reuters)-India will be hoping that by the end of March their Pune capitulation can be viewed from the lofty heights of a seventh consecutive Test series triumph as an aberration that acted as a brutal wake up call to the world’s number one side.

The shell-shocked hosts have a week to regroup before they again engage an Australian touring party which made Virat Kohli and his team of world-beaters look quite ordinary in a 333-run first test rout inside three days.

As they head south to Bengaluru, Kohli’s team will be forced to ponder the end of their hard-earned 19-test unbeaten run and what their captain described as their worst batting performance in two years.

“I would say that we needed something like this for us to get a reality check and understand what are the things we need to work on and keep persisting with it, not take anything for granted at any stage, especially at the test match level,” Kohli told reporters after the defeat.

Australia might be just below their hosts in the Test rankings but arrived in the country earlier this month having lost their last nine Tests

in spin-friendly conditions in Asia.

They were swept 4-0 sweep the last time they played a series in India and had not won a test since 2004 in what former captain Steve Waugh once called Australian cricket’s “Final Fron-

ners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja and a batsman in Kohli who recently became the first to score four double hundreds in as many series.

But Ashwin and Jadeja managed only a dozen wickets between themselves in the

Steve O’Keefe bowled India skipper Virat Kohli with a straighter delivery for 13 on the 3rd day in Pune. tier”.

There were many predictions of a result inside three days on the turning track dished out at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium, which was making its debut as a test ground, but none had India ending up on the losing side.

That was unsurprising, considering India possess the world’s top two ranked bowlers in spin-

match, the same number that Australia left-armer Steve O’Keefe alone bagged in the two innings.

Kohli blamed the Indian batting for the humbling after they scored 105 and 107 in their two innings and the image of the captain frozen in a crouch with his bat in the air as an O’Keefe delivery shattered the wickets behind him will not fade fast.

“Even a part-timer can get

four wickets if you don’t apply yourself. And I certainly would like to think that that was the case with our batting line-up in this game,” he said.

“It rarely happens that four or five batsmen make errors in judgement in both the innings, especially with the way we batted in the last few months.

“I would say this was our worst batting performance and we need to accept that.”

India’s shoddy performance with both bat and ball translated to their fielding too as they dropped numerous catches to compound their problems.

Australia captain Steve Smith was dropped four times and he made India pay dearly with his 18th test hundred in the second innings.

India were also found wanting in their choice of referrals in the match, losing all four reviews while fielding and managing to overturn one decision from the umpire out of three while batting.

Kohli promised his side will come back stronger this week in the second of the four Tests, as they did after their last defeat, against Sri Lanka in Galle in 2015.

“The last time we had a performance like this, we had the most outstanding run after that,” Kohli said.

Ibrahimovic strikes twice to win League Cup for Man. United

By Martyn Herman | LONDON-(Reuters)-Manchester United’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic proved his hunger for silverware has not diminished with age as the Swede’s double earned a 3-2 win over Southampton in an absorbing League Cup final at Wembley on Sunday.

After a stirring Saints fightback revived memories of their shock 1976 FA Cup final victory over United and with extra time looming, the 35-year-old Ibrahimovic pounced to head Ander Herrera’s cross past goalkeeper Fraser Forster.

His 26th goal of the season in all competitions followed a sublime first-half free kick that gave United the lead and enabled manager Jose Mourinho to claim his first silverware since arriving at Old Trafford in the summer.

Mourinho’s fourth League Cup triumph, three of which came during his two spells with Chelsea, put him alongside former United manager Alex Ferguson and Nottingham Forest great Brian Clough as the most successful managers in the competition.

United had taken a rather fortunate 2-0 lead with Ibrahimovic’s 19th-minute strike and Jesse Lingard’s clinical finish but Southampton striker Manolo Gabbiadini’s brace either side of

Manchester United’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic celebrates with the trophy Reuters / Darren Staples halftime breathed life into the showpiece match.

Both sides could have snatched victory but in the end it was the irrepressible Ibrahimovic who stole the limelight -- even if United’s unused captain Wayne Rooney hoisted the trophy aloft.

“This is a team effort. This is what I came for -- to win and I am winning. The more I win the more satisfied I get,” said Ibrahimovic, who has won silverware at Ajax Amsterdam, Inter Milan, Juventus, Barcelona and Paris St Germain.

“You appreciate it more the older you get. Wherever I have gone I have won. I think this is trophy number

32 for me.”

After becoming the first manager to win a major trophy in his debut season at United, Mourinho praised Ibrahimovic.

“He won the game for us. He was outstanding,” said the Portuguese. “He made the difference and he gave us the cup.”

IBRA WIZADRY Southampton, playing in their first Wembley cup final since 1979 when they were League Cup runners-up, were the sharper team in the opening stages and Gabbiadini was unlucky to have a goal disallowed for offside.

But United shook off their early lethargy and took the lead after 19 minutes with a typical piece of Ibrahimovic wizardry.

When they were awarded a free kick in a central position 25 metres out, the Swede clearly only had one thing in mind as he placed the ball down and curled a shot past Forster.

Southampton responded well but were hit with another sucker punch in the 38th minute when Marcos Rojo found Lingard in space and the young striker guided a precise shot past Forster.

Southampton were fortunate to keep 11 players on the pitch when Jack Stephens caught French forward Anthony Martial with a lunging tackle, escaping with a yellow card.

Claude Puel’s side were rewarded for their first-half endeavour seconds before the interval though when James Ward-Prowse drove the ball across goal and Gabbiadini stole in to steer the ball past De Gea. Three minutes after the break Southampton were level and it was January signing Gabbiadini who again showed his poaching skills, holding off Chris Smalling to shoot low past De Gea.

By Rajiv Bisnauth, in Florida

REGAL Masters and All-Stars teams won both titles when the Florida Cup Softball tournament concluded yesterday at the Central Broward Regional Park and Stadium, Lauderhill, Florida.

Eric Thomas and Rudolph Baker, left the Stadium shaking after they rattled up a sensational unbroken fifth-wicket stand of 129 off 42 balls, which was the backbone for the Regal Masters’ 47 runs win over the Orlando Masters.’

Thomas with a blistering 29ball 82 knock took his team to 199, which definitely motivated the visitors’ victory.

The right-hander blasted 10 sixes and three fours, while Baker made 41 off 29 balls, inclusive of two fours and four sixes.

With a run rate set at ten runs an over, Orlando Masters’ were never allow the momentum, and were 152-8 off 18.3 overs, when they conceded the game.

Asked to bat first in wonderful conditions, the visitors soon found themselves on the back foot, losing three wickets inside the power play overs, which yielded just 35 runs.

Motie Singh and Tony Kissoon began strongly. Singh removed Eion Able (4) and Mohendra Arjune (14), while Kissoon accounted for Mahebdra Hardyal without scoring.

However, semi-final hero Mahesh Chunilall and Lyndon Lyght, prevented further inroads, and together staged a meaningful recovery, added 31 for the fourth-wicket.

But after contributing 28 to the total, Chunilall was dismissed in the tenth over. Chunilall’s dismissal sucked the momentum out the innings somewhat, and runs dried up in the next five overs.

The Orlando bowlers were spot on in their line, and were propped up by some good fielding. During that period Lyght retired hurt on 17.

Regal Masters,’ through Thomas and Baker, then upped the ante for the remainder of the innings, hitting 101 off the final 30 balls.

The moment Thomas arrived at the crease he looked fluent right from the start, displaying a power-packed knock, much to the delight of the hundreds of spectators.

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The visitors’ bowlers then bowled with menace, and in the process took wickets at crucial moments as the Orlando Masters’ batsmen bowed under pressure.

Only Daniel Singh (39), John Joseph (23) and Collin Gonsalves (20), offered some fight.

It was a complete effort from all the visitors’ bowlers’, with Lennie Singh and Troy Kippins, claiming two wickets apiece.

Meanwhile, Tyron Sanasie bowled the Regal All-Stars to a comfortable 10-wicket win in the Open final over Hurricanes of Florida.

Asked to bat first Hurricanes produced their worst batting performance over the three-days to finish the tournament in humiliation.

From 23 without loss, the hosts were bowled out for 104 in 24 overs.

There could be no umpires or toss or conditions to blame for the defeat, but rather their batsmen simply did not come to the party.

Tyron Sanasie ripped the heart out of the Hurricanes batting order. The right-arm spinner claimed 6-9 in five overs, included three wickets in the fourth over of the innings.

He received support from Rohit Dutchin 2-3.

For the hosts Paul Suknandan (23) and Ansar Baksh (22), shared in a 50-run stand for the eight-wicket, and was the only meaningful partnership.

Regal All-Stars openers Richard Latif and Navin Singh, then whipped off the wining target, reaching 106 without lost in 10.2 overs.

Latif finished on 74, with five fours and six sixes, while Singh ended on 24.

The Florida Cup, now in its 14th year, has developed as one of the most popular tournaments in the USA. It has created an opportunity for cricketers from any and all Softball leagues to participate in a world-class tournament, which is being held in the beautiful Sunrise State of Florida since its inception.

The tournament, which has grown significantly over the years, is being held as part of Guyana’s 47th Republic Anniversary.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 27, 2017

Messi’s late winner sends Barcelona top of La Liga

By Richard Martin |

MADRID,(Reuters)-Lionel Messi came to Barcelona’s rescue for the second time in a week by snatching a late winner to give his side a barely deserved 2-1 win at Atletico Madrid on Sunday which provisionally took the champions top of La Liga.

Rafinha had put Luis Enrique’s side ahead against the run of play in the 63rd minute but Godin nodded in Koke’s free kick to level in the 70th and bring back memories of his title-clinching goal for Atletico at the Nou Camp in May 2014.

For much of the game, Barca looked to be suffering a lack of confidence from their 4-0 thrashing at Paris St Germain in the Champions League. They made a timid start and had goalkeeper

Barcelona’s Lionel Messi scores a goal past Atletico Madrid’s goalkeeper Jan Oblak. REUTERS/Juan Medina

Marc-Andre Ter Stegen to thank for impressive saves in either half.

Just as he had done the week

before at Leganes, however, Messi grabbed all the points for his side, producing an instinctive near-post finish in the 87th min-

ute following a free kick.

Barca lead the standings on 54 points, two ahead of Real Madrid and Sevilla although

Zinedine Zidane’s side can recover top spot with a game in hand if they beat Villarreal later on Sunday.

Boosted by their 4-2 win at Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League, Atletico made a dominant start, surrounding Barca’s area and pouncing on any mistake.

A misplaced pass out from Ter Stegen was quickly intercepted and led to Antoine Griezmann getting an early shot in but Barca defender Samuel Umtiti got his body in the way.

Te r S t e g e n d e n i e d Griezmann on several occasions, leaping to the top corner to tip a thumping first-half shot over the bar and then thwarting the France striker with his knee after the break.

Down the other end, Atletico’s Jan Oblak turned away a curling Messi free kick to an-

nounce his return after 10 weeks out injured, while Luis Suarez had a goal ruled out for a foul in a goalmouth scramble.

It took a scrappy strike from Rafinha to break the deadlock, the Brazilian firing into the far corner when the ball bounced fortuitously towards him, while Messi also benefited from a lucky ricochet to settle the game late on.

“I think we played a perfect game but they had two rebounds and they took advantage of them and leave here with the three points,” said Atletico captain Gabi.

Barca coach Luis Enrique added: “It was a very hardfought victory, we struggled in the first half because of their pressure and the conditions of the pitch but we scored at the end and that will give the players a huge morale boost.”

Farah coach used prohibited Fast bowling pair out of President’s drug infusions, says newspaper XI to face England today

(REUTERS)-Alberto Salazar, the coach of Britain’s Olympic champion Mo Farah, has been accused of using prohibited infusions of supplements to improve the performance of his runners, the Sunday Times reported citing a leaked United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) report.

The British newspaper said the 2016 report also accused Salazar of abusing prescription medicines for his athletes at the Nike training center in Oregon.

Attempts by Reuters to reach Salazar for comment were unsuccessful. Salazar issued a lengthy and detailed denial of similar allegations in 2015.

Farah said in a statement on Sunday that he was “a clean athlete who has never broken the rules in regards to substances, methods or dosages.”

Farah, who last year became only the second man to retain the Olympic 5,000 and 10,000-metre titles, accused the newspaper of using his profile to make “the story more interesting”.

“If USADA or any other anti-doping body has evidence of wrongdoing they should publish it and take action rather than allow the media to be judge and jury,” he added.

The Sunday Times said the USADA report had been leaked by the ‘Fancy Bears’ hacking group which has previously leaked medical and doping-related documents.

The newspaper said that Farah and other athletes coached by Salazar were given infusions of a research supplement based on the chemical L-carnitine and that one who was given a high dosage said that it was as effective as illegal blood doping.

It said Salazar also emailed

disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong touting the benefits of L-carnitine.

L-carnitine is not a banned substance for athletes but infusions of more than 50ml in the space of six hours are prohibited, the newspaper added.

USADA on Saturday confirmed to Reuters the document cited by the Sunday Times appeared to have been leaked but would not comment on the report’s conclusions or any accusations against Salazar.

“USADA can confirm that it has prepared a report in response to a subpoena from a state medical licensing body regarding care given by a physician to athletes associated with the Nike Oregon Project,” USADA Communications Manager Ryan Madden said in an email to Reuters.

American marathon runner who has worked with Farah since 2011, was accused of violating anti-doping rules in a BBC documentary in 2015, including allegations he had given 2012 Olympic 10,000m silver medallist Galen Rupp the banned anabolic steroid testosterone.

Farah was exonerated by UK Athletics who found no impropriety on his part after receiving the initial findings of a review into his relationship with Salazar.

The latest Sunday Times article says that, according to the leaked document, Salazar took “egregious risks” and abused prescription rules by persuading Farah to take potentially dangerous doses of permitted vitamin D prescription drugs believing it would boost his performance through

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, ( CMC) – The fast bowling pair of Reynard Leveridge and Kemar Roach have been withdrawn from the WICB P r e s i d e n t ’s X I s q u a d f o r t o d a y ’s 5 0 - o v e r s clash with touring England at Warner Park.

Rookie Leveridge, 26, has been ruled out through injury while Roach, a Test bowler, has pulled out due to “pers o n a l r e a s o n s ” , a We s t Indies Cricket Board statement said Sunday.

Both players campaigned in the just concluded Regional Super50, and played in the final for their respective franchises.

Leveridge represented Jamaica Scorpions,

taking nine wickets in as many games while Roach, who has already played 37 Tests, picked up 12 wickets from seven outings.

They have been replaced by Delorn Johnson and Obed McCoy, both left-arm seamers.

Johnson, 28, is a West

Indies A player who endured a disappointing Regional Super50 campaign for Windward Isl a n d s Vo l c a n o e s w h i l e the 20-year-old McCoy turned out for the West Indies Under-19s.

The game is the final warm-up game for England before they take on West Indies in three One-Day Internationals starting Friday in Antigua.

Jamaican fast bowler Renard Leveridge

Afghanistan raze Zimbabwe for 54 to seal ODI series Mo Farah’s coach Alberto Salazar “It appears that a draft of this report was leaked to the Sunday Times by the Russian state-affiliated hacker group known as Fancy Bears.

“We understand that the licensing body is still deciding its case and as we continue to investigate whether anti-doping rules were broken, no further comment will be made at this time.”

Salazar, a Cuban-born

increased testosterone levels.

Farah’s British doctors intervened because they were concerned about the effects on his health, the paper said, citing the leaked USADA report.

The Fancy Bear hackers have previously published data on athletes gained from the World Anti-Doping Agency administration and management system via an account for the Rio Games.

AFGHANISTAN’s bowlers combined to roll Zimbabwe over for 54, helping the visitors seal a 3-2 series win with a 106-run D/L victory in the final ODI in Harare.

Afghanistan elected to bat and were provided a brisk start thanks to opener Noor Ali Zadran’s 49-ball 46, even as Zimbabwe got regular breakthroughs early on.

Noor Ali eventually fell at the end of the 15th over, a wicket that put the brakes on Afghanistan’s momentum as captain Asghar Stanikzai and Rahmat Shah tried to steady the innings from 85 for 3.

The pair put on 39 off 64 balls, which was followed by a fifth-wicket stand of 35

between Shah and Samiullah Shenwari. After Rahmat reached his fifty, both he and Shenwari were run-out as Afghanistan found themselves at 172 for 6 at the 40over mark.

Allrounder Mohammad Nabi then batted with the lower order, hitting four fours and a six in his 48 off 40 balls. Dawlat Zadran hit 14 off 6 balls to lift them to 253 for 9. Medium-pacer Chris Mpofu finished with figures of 3 for 46 while the spin duo of Graeme Cremer and Sean Williams kept things tight and conceded a combined 74 in 20 overs.

Zimbabwe’s response was delayed by rain and a wet

outfield, leaving them with a revised target of 161 off 22 overs. They suffered an early blow, losing Peter Moor in the second over. Three balls later, left-arm spinner Amir Hamza removed Solomon Mire, before returning two more wickets off four balls in his next over to reduce Zimbabwe to 13 for 4.

There was to be no recovery, with only two batsmen getting into double-figures, as Nabi and Rashid Khan who were both picked up by the Sunrisers Hyderabad at the IPL auction earlier this week - took combined figures of 5 for 22. Rahmat was named Man of the Match for his fifty.(ESPN Cricinfo)

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 27, 2017

Tottenham overwhelm Stoke with another Kane hat-trick (REUTERS)-England striker Harry Kane scored a clinical first-half hat-trick in 23 minutes as Tottenham Hotspur rebounded from their midweek European disappointment to overwhelm Stoke City 4-0 on Sunday.

Tottenham’s victory put them above Manchester City into second place in the Premier League, 10 points behind leaders Chelsea.

Kane put the home team ahead in the 14th minute with his 100th goal in club football, with 84 of them coming for Spurs.

He added another 18 minutes later, volleying in

from a corner and completed his third treble in six weeks with a deflected shot.

Dele Alli made it 4-0 before halftime from Kane’s cross.

It was a stunning individual performance by the 23-year-old Londoner, who had previously scored hattricks against West Bromwich Albion on Jan. 14 and then at Fulham in the FA Cup last Sunday.

The team’s display also justified manager Mauricio Pochettino’s decision to field an unchanged side despite Spurs having less than 72 hours’ rest after going out of the Europa League against Gent at Wembley on Thurs-

Tottenham’s Harry Kane celebrates scoring their second goal Reuters / Dylan Martinez

day.

Mid-table Stoke, in contrast, derived no benefit from having had 15 days without a game and were outplayed throughout.

Spurs pressed from the start with some neat close-passing and Kane opened the scoring with an opportunistic effort as the ball ran to him off a defender.

Soon after Jan Vertonghen had struck the bar with a fierce drive, Christian Eriksen spotted Kane unmarked at a corner and picked him out for a perfect low left-footed volley.

Eriksen next teed up a free kick for the striker,

whose shot went in off a defender. The goal was credited to Kane, who then did brilliantly on the right flank just before halftime, setting up Alli to score.

Stoke, who were no doubt given a talking to at the interval by manager Mark Hughes, livened up in the second half but Kane was only denied his fourth goal by a fine low save from Lee Grant.

“We wanted to come out and get back to winning ways,” Kane told Sky Sports.

“It was exactly what we need. I just tried to get my shots off and if you don’t shoot, you don’t score.”

Opener Chris Gayle

Gayle, Pollard power Karachi Kings into playoffs Chadwick Walton celebrates his career-best List A hundred against England on Saturday. (Photo courtesy WICB Media)

Walton delighted with England hundred BASSETERRE, St Kitts, (CMC) – Chadwick Walton said he was delighted with his second List A hundred especially since it came against an international side.

The Jamaica and West Indies batsman plundered a career-best 121 off 109 balls at Warner Park as the UWI Vice-Chancellor’s XI slumped to 117-run defeat to England in a tour match here Saturday.

“I would say this one is really special. It’s coming off the back of my first List A hundred and getting one

against an international side in England, I must say I’m really pleased,” said the 31-year-old.

“I just went out there and decided I was going to try and maximize the overs and I guess it paid off.”

Only 11 days go, Walton hit his maiden List A hundred – 117 against Trinidad and Tobago Red Force – in the semi-final of the Regional Super50 at the Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.

He finished the tournament with 350 runs at an average of 35 as Jamaica Scorpions reached the final

before losing to eventual champions Barbados Pride.

Walton, who last represented West Indies in the Twenty20 series against Pakistan in United Arab Emirates last September, said the innings had been also about assessing his development.

“I thought it was a good opportunity to gauge myself and see where I am in cricket and I think I took that opportunity,” he pointed out. “I have some work to be done so I will move from here and see what will happen next.”

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, (CMC) – Opener Chris Gayle finally found his touch while West Indies teammate Kieron Pollard once again had a crucial role with the bat, as Karachi Kings won their second game in as many days, to power into the playoffs of the Pakistan Super League here Sunday.

Their dramatic last-ball victory over Lahore Qalanders on Saturday seemed to give the struggling side the impetus they needed and they mustered another courageous effort to pull off a five-wicket win over Dwayne Smith’s Islamabad United with a ball remaining at the Dubai International Stadium.

The victory was enough to push them above Qalanders into fourth in the five-team standings, to take the final playoff spot.

Set 124 for victory from 15 overs, the left-handed Gayle put his poor form behind him to crack 44 off just 17 deliveries, with the consistent

opener Babar Azam hitting 27 and Pollard, an unbeaten 20.

Gayle, with a measly 59 runs from six previous innings, blasted two fours and five sixes as he added 64 for the first wicket with Babar.

His entertaining innings ended when he attempted to heave off-spinner Saeed Ajmal through the leg-side for his fourth straight six of the sixth over but ended up skewing his shot into the safe hands of third man.

Four wickets then fell for

28 runs to leave Kings requiring 32 from the last 24 deliveries but Pollard stroked two boundaries in a 13-ball knock at the end, to see Kings home.

Earlier, Smith top-scored with 49 off 36 balls as Islamabad United managed to get up to 123 for seven off their 15 overs, after they were sent in.

The former Barbados and West Indies opener faced 36 balls and counted seven fours and a six, holding the innings together until he perished in the penultimate over to a brilliant one-handed catch by Pollard off left-arm seamer Usman Khan.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday February 27, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Sulieman Benn-3 (Bar) (2) Rovman Powell-7 (Jam) Today’s Quiz: (1) How many Barbadians are in the WI 15-man squad to take on

England in the upcoming ODIs? (2) How many Guyana Jaguars players are in the 12-man squad

to oppose England in a practice game in St. Kitts?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

23

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 27, 2017

Husbands win Forbes Burnham Memorial Three-Stage Cycle Road Race Shaquele Agard, raises his hands in triumph as he crosses the finish line to win the final stage of the Forbes Burnham Memorial Three-Stage Cycle Road Race yesterday (Samuel Maughn photos).

Hamza Eastman, is all jubilant as he crosses the finish line to win the second stage of the Forbes Burnham Memorial Cycle Road race yesterday

TEAM Coco’s Stephano Husbands, came out victorious in the annual Forbes Burnham Memorial Threestage cycle road race, which concluded yesterday with the staging of the final two stages and in the process of winning the event he won four of the 18 prime prizes that were up for grabs.

Eastman who hails from Linden placed second in the first stage that was held in New Amsterdam, Berbice, two Sunday’s ago.

That stage started in New Amsterdam, proceeded to Rose Hall Town and returned to New Amsterdam for the finish and was won by Berbician Andrew Hicks. The

other top three places were occupied by Hamza Eastman, Jamal John and Geron Williams, respectively and the time for that stage was one hour .03 minutes 34 seconds.

In the second stage yesterday which started at `Five Corners’ in Linden and concluded on Homestretch Avenue in Georgetown, Husbands placed third behind stage winner Eastman (2.55:43) and Shaquele Agard, respectively , while Orville Hinds, Michael Anthony and Jamal John, occupied the other top three spots.

The third and final stage which began at 14:00hrs from Homestretch Avenue and

proceeded to Belfield, on the East Coast Demerara, before returning to the place of origin for the finish, saw Husbands placing fifth behind stage winner Shaquele Agard ((1.19:48), Orville Hinds, Alonzo Ambrose and Andrew Hicks respectively. Paul DeNobrega was sixth.

Husbands’ overall time for the event was five hours 19 minutes .02 seconds.

In the overall placings, Agard was second (5.19:05), Eastman third (5.19:33), Hicks fourth (5.20:19, Hinds fifth (5.20:41) and Ambrose sixth (5.20:58).

The junior category was won by Christopher Cornelius, who returned an overall

time of 5.32:30, while Adelealie Hodge, (5.33:15) was second and Marcus Keilos, (6.04:20) was third.

In the veterans’ category, Junior Niles, returned five hours, 23 minutes 32 seconds in winning ahead of Ian Jackson, (5.32:55) and Sybourne Fernandes, (5.33:19) respectively.

Apart from Husbands’ four prime prizes, the other 14 were shared by Anthony, Niles and Deoraj Gorbaran, who won two each and Eastman, Hicks, Hinds, Enzo Matthews, Ambrose and Akeem Wilkinson, who all won one each.

Yesterday’s final stage saw team Coco’s riders –

Husbands, Eastman and Johndominating the proceedings on the upward journey, dictating the pace, but on the return journey, things changed and saw several attacks coming from the other riders.

It was at Enmore, East Coast Demerara, that Anthony attacked, but was wheeled back in at Beterverwagting,

by Hicks, Eastman and Hinds; the latter trio went on a semi-break but were caught up with and at Buxton.

Anthony went on another break, but was sucked in at Plaisance.

Raphael Leung and Ambrose then jumped the pack at Ocean View but were sucked in at Kitty, then

Agard went out and rode home unchallenged.

Hinds made his move in the homestretch and Hicks was content with staying on Hinds’ back wheel and placed third behind Hinds.

(Captions) AGARD: Shaquele Agard, raises his hands in triumph as he crosses the finish line to win the final stage of the Forbes Burnham Memorial ThreeStage Cycle Road Race yesterday (Samuel Maughn photos).

HAMZA): Hamza Eastman, is all jubilant as he crosses the finish line to win the second stage of the Forbes Burnham Memorial Cycle Road race yesterday.

Third Fitness Challenge launched under Kares Brand - Windjammer; Ansa McAl resign THE third instalment of the Fitness Challenge will see just over thirty athletes pushing their bodies to the limit come next Sunday.

The challenge, launched today at the Giftland Office Max Mall in Turkeyen, will see a number of events aimed at pushing the human body to its limit while showcasing the ultimate level of fitness.

During the launch, Kares Engineering was unveiled as the title sponsor of the event with General Manager, Dennis Nandan, contending that the company is glad to be on board as the title sponsor.

Other event sponsors include Windjammer, which will provide meals for the judges and staff, as well as Ansa McAl through the Lucozade brand, Roraima with its Arrowpoint Nature Resort as well as Baganara.

Giftland Sportsmax, Wings Investments, Johnny P supermarket, Trophy Stall, Star Party Rentals, St Joseph’s Mercy Hospital, Tech Pro, Fitness Express and Genesis Fitness Express are also on board for the event.

Additionally, this edition of the Championship will see Scotiabank coming on board

A Fitness Challenge demonstration during yesterday’s launch with a celebrity challenge in an attempt to raise funds for charity while DeSinco Trading will have its usual novelty events.

The first event of the Challenge will see the contestants running two miles around the national park with a 300m

carry at the end for the females and a 400m carry for the men.

Event two will see the men doing 33 deadlifts at 225lbs, while the women will have to do the same number at 155lbs.

This will be followed by 33 box jumps at 30 inches for

the men and 24 inches for the women. 33 Kettlebell swings at 55lbs for the males is another part of stage two with the women having the same number with a 35lb weight.

They will close the round off with 33 pull-ups for both

men and women while 33 overhead squats at 75lbs for the men and 55lbs for the women will close off that round.

Event three will see each athlete having to complete a lift of increasing weight over a one minute period, with the

men starting at 165lbs and going all the way to 255lbs while the ladies will start at 65lbs and move all the way to 135lbs.

Event four will be a 10 minute workout with points being scored for as many reps as possible. In the odd minutes (minutes 1,3,5,6,7,9), the male competitors will have to use the wallballs at 20lbs for males and 14lbs for females. On the even minutes (2,4,6,8,10), competitors will have to do as many reps as possible toes to bar exercises.

Event five will be unveiled on the competition day according to organiser Jamie McDonald, with the Director of Sports, Christopher Jones, expected to pick said event from a bag full of challenges.

During yesterday’s press conference, Jones confirmed that he will be on hand to do such, adding that “I am pleased to see as much corporate entities on board with the event. It is not only government’s job to support sport.”

The launch was preceded by a demonstration session.

Thus far, 33 competitors have signed on with four complete teams for the March 5 event in the National Park.

Husbands win Forbes Burnham Memorial Three-Stage Cycle Road Race age 23 See P Florida Cup Softball Tournament 2017….

Mission accomplished! Regal claim both titles See story on age 20

The winning Regal All-Stars and Masters’ teams posed with their trophies Milo Schools football

Morgan Learning Centre demolish St John’s College 13-0 MORGAN Learning Centre decimated St John’s College 13-0 in game four of the Petra organised, Ministry of Public Health/ Milo Schools football tournament yesterday at the Ministry of Education ground., Carifesta Avenue A hat- trick for Leon Richardson in the 7th, 17th and 50th minute coupled with braces from David Coates

(46th and 51st), Alistair Frank (4th and 68th) and Orin Moore (16th and 61st) helped the Morgan side past their Waterloo Street opponents.

There were also single strikes from Osafo Mattheson (25th), Carl Griffith (28th), David Blake (32nd) and Tariq Nelson (52nd) In game one of the day, it was a 3-3 drawn affair between Kingston Second-

ary and St. Mary’s with Yackym Barker (5th), Ruel Williams (15th) and Odafie Taylor (58th) on target for the Kingston side.

St. Mary’s on the other hand had Tyrese Williams (43rd), Michael Damon (45th) and Dominic Bottse (67th) on target.

Pure Masters also overcame Tucville yesterday in game three 4-2

Alton Benn’s brace (18th and 43rd) coupled with Jamain Simon (4th) and Brian Harris (66th) was able to overcome Tucville’s duo of Godfrey Phillips (25th) and Julian Bamfield (58th) Lodge Secondary was also victorious by a 1-0 margin over East Ruimveldt thanks to Turston Gordon (60th)

Part of the action during Sunday’s Petra Organised, Ministry of Public Health/ Milo schools football tournament.

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Tyron Sanasie, collects his Man-of-the-Match trophy MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2017