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The Vitz Cup A and B Class Championships will culminate in a dramatic finale on November 2 at the legendary South Dakota Circuit, forming a crucial part of the Caribbean Clash of Champions event.

The stakes couldn’t be higher with the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club celebrating its 70th anniversary.

Two champions will be crowned in an explosive finale where precision racing dictates success over raw power.

Rameez Mohamed has dominated the top tier, A Class. The driver has delivered a season of clinical consistency and heads into the final round with a significant 50-point cushion, sitting comfortably on 126 points.

Barring a catastrophic failure, the title appears to be Mohamed’s.

However, the battle for the silver medal is wide open and set to go down to the wire. Shan Seejatan (76 points) holds a narrow three-point lead over Aaqib Ali (73 points), setting up a straight shoot-out for second place overall.

Further down the grid, Nyron Maraj (65 points) remains a theoretical threat, needing a string of podium finishes and trouble for those ahead. Unpredictable factors like Ray Rahaman and Steven Nobrega also threaten to disrupt the leaders’ points haul.

If A Class has been a procession, the B Class has been pure motorsports chaos. Just 10 points separate the top four drivers in one of the tightest title fights in recent memory.

Current leader Bishram Rajaram barely holds on with 86 points, relying on his season-long consistency. However, he faces immediate pressure from three aggressive challengers:

• Ravin Ramotaur (82 points)
• Luis Kumar (80 points)
• Reeyaz Hamid (76 points)

The razor-thin margin means that any single on-track incident, poor start, or mechanical glitch could see the lead change hands immediately.

Ramotaur’s known aggression and Kumar’s quiet efficiency make the final three races a true reckoning, with Hamid positioned as the wildcard capable of upsetting the established order.

When the chequered flag drops on November 2, the South Dakota Circuit will have delivered a spectacular conclusion to Guyana’s most passionate local championship.

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The DSB Suriname Invitational officially tees off today, with a strong contingent of Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) golfers representing Guyana and aiming for top finishes on Suriname’s renowned course.

Team Guyana arrives ready for the challenge at the Paramaribo Golf Club, a course known for its lush fairways and strategic bunkers.

LGC Grounds Superintendent and competitor Brian Hackett expressed optimism ahead of the first round.

“It’s great to be here. The Guyanese team is all pumped and ready, and we’re expecting to do well,” Hackett said.

“We had a solid practice session and were pleased with what we saw. We’ve brought some of our best, many of whom made the podium last year and are determined to repeat that success.”

The team consists of decorated veterans and proven performers, including Patrick Prashad, Patanjilee Persaud, Troy Cadogan, Carlos Adams, and Shanella London.

The full 22-member Lusignan Golf Club squad competing in the Suriname Invitational includes: Carlos Adams, Rakesh Harry, Mohanlall Dinanauth, Robert Hanoman, Mourice Solomon, Avinash Persaud, Arnal Deo, Patanjallie Persaud, David Harry, Patrick Prashad, Chet Bowling, Mike Mangal, Lakeram Ramsundar, Orson Fergson, Troy Cadogan, Vishal Dhani, Maxim Mangra, Keshan Bacchus, Bridgelall Harry, Vassishtdeo Lakeraj-Chandra, Brian Hackett, and Eureka Giddings.

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By Avenash Ramzan

Supremely proud of his Amerindian heritage, rising 17-year-old fast bowling talent Darwin Joseph is relishing the opportunity to play in his maiden Senior Inter-County 50-over competition.

The Warapoka teen has been named in the Guyana Cricket Board’s Select XI for the October 11-26 tournament, sponsored by Queensway Security Service Inc.

The Region One (Barima-Waini) cricketer first tried the sport at age 11, and his tremendous skill quickly elevated him to national duties, having already represented Guyana three years at the Under-17 level.

“Playing cricket is a dream come true,” he told News Room as he credited his parents- Randolph and Sharmeine Joseph- for standing as strong pillars of support in his cricketing endeavours.

“They always tell me ‘never give up’ and let me continue to follow my dream.”

“I always think about the game. I always train and work hard and I’m so happy with the progress I’ve made so far.”

Darwin Joseph is aiming to one day wear the Essequibo colours in Senior Inter-County cricket (Photo: News Room/Avenash Ramzan)

While he is delighted to get the selectors’ nod for the Select XI, Joseph, who patterns his bowling off his namesake and countryman Shamar Joseph, articulated that his next goal at the Senior Inter-County level is to represent his county Essequibo.

“I know I have to put in more work to make that possible, and I will do it,” the confident young man, who has career-best figures of 6-22, related.

“For now I’m looking forward to representing the Select XI to the best of my ability and hopefully we come out successful.”

A big admirer of the batting style of West Indies top-order batter Brandon King, Joseph highlighted that hardball cricket is not very popular in Warapoka, and his induction in the sport was via tapeball.

It is the hope of Joseph that his elevation to national colours will help to inspire a growth in the hardball game in his village, and more talents could emerge and follow in his footsteps.

President Irfaan Ali is keen on Amerindian representation in various sporting disciplines at the national level

Focus on elevating sport in indigenous communities

That could soon become a reality as just last month during the Amerindian Heritage Games at the Everest Ground, President Irfaan Ali announced that he has instructed the Guyana Cricket Board to include a national indigenous team in its competitions and trials.

Former Guyana and West Indies captain Ramnaresh Sarwan has been appointed as the mentor and coach for indigenous talent in cricket, while former West Indies cricketer and coach Roger Harper will lead the development of women’s cricket, with special focus on indigenous communities.

“He (Sarwan) will be responsible for working with our indigenous boards and groups to select the first indigenous cricket team that will come into the national cricketing infrastructure and be part of those trials,” President Ali said. 

Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Steven Jacobs (centre) and former Guyana and West Indies captain Ramnaresh Sarwan at the outreach on Region Nine

In early October, Sarwan and Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport Steven Jacobs travelled to Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) for the first in a series of planned outreach visits.

During their visit to Region Nine, the delegation met with key regional figures, including Regional Chairman Brian Allicock and Mayor of Lethem John Macedo.

They also engaged directly with members of local sporting associations and clubs while inspecting existing facilities.

This comprehensive approach marks the rollout of the President’s initiative, which is structured around three core pillars: Accessibility, Development, and Exposure.

The programme’s ultimate ambition is the creation of a National Heritage Team across various sporting disciplines, ensuring talent identified outside of traditional coastal hubs is given a pathway to elite competition. 

President Ali has given similar directives to the Guyana Football Federation and the Guyana Volleyball Federation to ensure indigenous teams are included in their structures.

The President said discussions were had with Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport and Youth Charles Ramson Jr, Minister Jacobs and Minister of Amerindian Affairs Sarah Browne “to ensure that our indigenous communities are given an equal chance to represent the Golden Arrowhead in all of our national sports.”

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President Dr. Irfaan Ali has publicly acknowledged and thanked the outgoing Regional Chairpersons and Vice-Chairpersons across Guyana, recognising their dedication and the tangible impact of their service on regional development.

In his message, President Ali highlighted that the tenure of these leaders has left a lasting imprint on communities, noting that their efforts translated government programmes into real, measurable improvements in citizens’ lives.

“Your service stands as a proud example of leadership committed to the people of Guyana. Through your guidance, initiatives in health, education, infrastructure, agriculture, and local development were implemented effectively, bringing meaningful change to your regions,” he said.

President Ali and Regional Vice Chairpersons elected in 2020

The President expressed appreciation for the professionalism, dedication, and hands-on leadership demonstrated by outgoing Chairpersons and Vice-Chairpersons, describing their tenure as a model of accountability, service, and public trust.

“Your experience, insight, and record of achievement are invaluable. As you conclude this chapter of service, we celebrate your contributions and the positive legacy you leave behind,” President Ali added, urging them to continue sharing their knowledge and expertise for the nation’s ongoing development.

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President Dr. Irfaan Ali has extended congratulations to the newly elected Regional Chairmen, Vice Chairpersons and Councillors across Guyana’s ten administrative regions, urging them to prioritise service, collaboration and good governance.

In a message released following the elections, President Ali emphasised that public office is a trust to be honoured rather than a prize to be enjoyed. He called on all council members to work together for the common good, setting aside partisan divisions to ensure the effective implementation of development plans and national priorities at the regional level.

“Our Regional Democratic Councils are an important tier of our system of governance. They are the instruments through which development is planned and implemented at the regional level, ensuring that national priorities are translated into tangible benefits for our citizens,” President Ali said.

The President highlighted the need for mutual respect and collaboration among council members, regardless of party affiliation, noting that healthy debate is welcome but must always serve the welfare of the people. He also stressed that leadership is defined by humility, empathy, integrity, and service, not power or prestige.

Regional Election Outcomes:

• Upper Takutu-Essequibo: Ms. Vania Albert has been elected as Regional Chairperson.
• Potaro-Siparuni: Ms. Tercellia John has been elected as Regional Chairwoman, with Ms. Samantha John serving as Vice Chairwoman.
• Cuyuni-Mazaruni: Mrs. June Shondelle J. Shurland-Gittens elected Regional Chairwoman; Mr. Alden Christopher Marslowe elected Regional Vice Chairman.
• East Berbice-Corentyne : Mr. Junior Basant elected Regional Chairman; Mr. Sahid Khan elected Regional Vice Chairman.
• Mahaica-Berbice: Mr. Ricardo Dwain Phillips elected Regional Chairman; Mr. Kleon Lindey elected Regional Vice Chairman.
• Demerara-Mahaica: Mr. Clemsford Belgrave elected Regional Chairman; Mr. Deoraj Nauth elected Regional Vice Chairman.
• Essequibo Islands-West Demerara: Mr. Sheik Mohamed Ishan Ayube re-elected Regional Chairman; Ms. Anjanie Narine elected Regional Vice Chairwoman.
• Pomeroon-Supenaam: Mr. Devin Mohan elected Regional Chairman; Mr. Humace Oodit elected Regional Vice Chairman.
• Barima-Waini: Mr. Brentnol Ashley re-elected Regional Chairman; Mr. Paul Pierre elected Regional Vice Chairman.

In Region 10, the election of a new Regional Democratic Council (RDC) Chairman ended in a tie. Dominique Blair of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) secured nine votes, equal to Mark Goring of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party, after a cross-party voting alignment between the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C), Forward Guyana Movement (FGM), and APNU councillors.

President Ali concluded by urging all council members to be responsive to citizens’ needs, accountable in their actions, and united in their purpose, calling on them to serve as models of good governance and service.

“My best wishes are extended for a successful tenure to those elected,” he said.

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A young civil engineer has been elected Regional Chairman of Region Five following the swearing-in of new councilors on Friday.

Recardo Phillips, along with Kleon Lindey, Derrick John, Pooja Mohamed, Inderjeet Persaud, Surdass Ramjattan, Devena Kemraj-Sundar, Fiona Reynolds, Cindy Sealey, Tanuja Singh, and Ayube Tajmool, took their oaths as councilors representing the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C).

Councilors from the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) — Emerson Benjamin, Junior Henry, Angela McDonald, and Selma Sealy — and the We Invest In Nationhood (WIN) Party — Marlise Chester-Morrison, Waheed Ishak, and Alene Seraphine-Kendall — were also sworn in.

During the election for chairman, Phillips secured the majority of votes, while Kleon Lindey was elected Vice Chairman.

In his address to the new council, 28-year-old Phillips, a native of Airy Hall, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, pledged to continue the successful initiatives of the previous council in alignment with President Irfaan Ali’s vision for national development.

“We must work for every man, woman, and child in this region, regardless of who they voted for. We are one council, and our mandate is to serve the people of this region. I charge you to give your best service to our communities,” Phillips said.

A civil engineer by profession, Phillips highlighted four guiding principles from the PPP/C election campaign: Inclusivity, Equity, Accountability, and Prosperity.

“For Inclusivity, every stakeholder and resident must be informed and involved in the transformative agenda of our President. For Equity, every resource allocated to the Regional Democratic Council and other sector ministries must be distributed fairly across the region. Accountability requires transparency in all our actions, and Prosperity ensures that every man, woman, and child benefits from the government’s development initiatives,” he explained.

Minister of Education Sonia Parag congratulated the new councilors, reminding them of their responsibilities. “Your priority is promoting democracy in your region — inclusivity, quality service, transparency, and accountability,” she said.

Former Regional Chairman Vickchand Ramphal expressed his appreciation for the new councilors and urged collaboration to maintain the region’s progress.

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The People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) has secured control of the Region Four (Demerara–Mahaica) Regional Democratic Council (RDC) following the election of Clemsford Belgrave as Regional Chairman on Friday.

Belgrave, representing the PPP/C, received 18 votes, defeating APNU’s Shaneika Haynes, who garnered eight votes. The outcome cements the PPP/C’s dominance in the country’s most populous region after strong showings in the 2025 General and Regional Elections.

According to the Official Gazette, Region Four’s RDC is composed of 17 councillors from the PPP/C, 9 from APNU, 8 from We Invest in Nationhood (WIN), and 1 from Forward Guyana (FGM). The Alliance for Change (AFC) and Assembly for Liberty and Prosperity (ALP) also contested but failed to secure any seats.

Belgrave’s election marks another key victory for the PPP/C, which retained national office in the 2025 elections and has since strengthened its regional influence through successful chairmanship bids across multiple regions.

The official list of Region Four councillors includes:

• People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C): Alechia Amos, Timothy Andrews, Jasodra Appalsamy, Neemwattie Baldeo, Clemsford Belgrave, Neville Cumberbach, Tasleem Drepaul, Saleesha Gafoor, Gayatri Jagroop, Eresha Melville, Desmond Morian, Deoraj Nauth, Alana Persaud, Roopnarain Persaud, Sumatie Ramcharan, Raghunandan Singh, David Williams.
• A Partnership for National Unity (APNU): Rudolph Adams, Ravoldo Birbal, Marcia Chattoor-Gordon, Jasmain Hackett, Shaneika Haynes, Dillon Mohamed, Robin Simon, Shirley Witter, Sheik Yaseen.
• We Invest in Nationhood (WIN): Corwin Austin, Jennel Frank-Leitch, Akeem Fraser, Latoya Joseph, Savion Paddy, Shadirra Pugsley, Roshana Rose, Felica Sheriff-Forrester.
• Forward Guyana Movement (FGM): Tinifa Stoll.

Region Four remains Guyana’s economic and political hub, encompassing the capital city, Georgetown and major East Bank and East Coast Demerara communities.

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The election of a new Chairman for the Region 10 Regional Democratic Council (RDC) ended in a tie on Friday, after the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and Forward Guyana Movement (FGM) councillors voted alongside the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) in support of its nominee, Dominique Blair.

Blair, the APNU’s candidate, secured nine votes, the same number as Mark Goring of the We Invest in Nationhood (WIN) party. The tie now leaves the final decision in the hands of the Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Priya Manickchand, who will be required to convene a special meeting to cast the deciding vote.

According to the Official Gazette, following the 2025 General and Regional Elections, the distribution of seats in Region 10 was as follows: WIN – 9 seats, APNU – 5 seats, PPP/C – 3 seats, and Forward Guyana – 1 seat.

This outcome means that the PPP/C’s three councillors and the Forward Guyana representative joined APNU’s five votes to support Blair’s bid for the Chairmanship—an alignment that effectively blocked WIN’s majority advantage in the region.

Region 10, officially known as Upper Demerara–Upper Berbice, has traditionally been considered a stronghold of the APNU, but WIN’s performance in the 2025 polls reshaped the political landscape, granting it the largest single bloc of council seats.

The full list of elected councillors includes:

1. A Partnership for National Unity (APNU): Dominique Blair, Suzette Gordon, Donna Perry, Faye Rodrigues, Orlon Rogers
2. Forward Guyana Movement (FGM): Shondell Jerrick
3. People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C): Odessa Adams, Sarah Gibson, Nikita Roberts
4. We Invest in Nationhood (WIN): Denzel Chapman, Tamicka Duke, Nandy Miriam Fiedtkou, Mark Goring, Michelle Hope, Leola Narine, Yoland Nedd, Judith Wade-Martin, Hubert Williams

 

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Guyana Harpy Eagles Head Coach Ryan Hercules is laying out a blueprint for players in the upcoming Queensway Senior Inter-County Tournament, which commences on Saturday at Hampton Court in Essequibo.

This strategic shift aims to usher in an analytical, modern approach to the 50-over game, a format in which Guyana has been trophy-less since 2005.

Hercules, working in tandem with the Harpy Eagles’ analysts and the four head coaches of the Inter-County teams, has set specific, measurable targets for batsmen and bowlers throughout the three crucial phases of the match: the Powerplay, Middle Overs, and the Death Overs.

The move signals a shift from relying solely on natural talent to embracing a more analytical and planned approach to match execution.

The metrics document released by the coaching staff details the required performance levels for both individual players and the collective team unit across the 50 overs of an innings:

The core focus for batsmen is ensuring strike rotation and acceleration as the match progresses, with a key emphasis on eliminating unproductive deliveries.

 

Phase	Overs	Minimum Individual SR Target	Key Action Points
Powerplay	1–10	SR of 85 or more	This equates to roughly 26 runs off 30 balls by each batter. Mix aggression with urgency in running (singles/doubles).
Middle Overs	11–40	SR of 100 or more	A set batter must be scoring at a minimum of a run-a-ball. Rotation of strike through field manipulation (gaps) is key.
Death Overs	41–50	SR of above 110	Acceleration is key for set batters. New batters must minimize dot balls and rotate strike before playing big shots. A calculated approach could achieve an SR of above 150.

 

Bowling Mandate: Pressure Through Dot Balls

For the bowlers, the priority is building pressure through discipline, achieving high dot ball percentages, and executing specific field plans.

Phase	Overs	Minimum Dot Ball Target	Key Strategy
Powerplay	1–10	60% or more	This equals 15 dot balls in a 4-over spell. Hit the “good lengths” and bowl strictly to the field plan.
Middle Overs	11–40	55% or more	This equals 20 dot balls in a 6-over spell. Focus on hard lengths, minimizing boundary balls, and bowling to the field plan.
Death Overs	41–50	25% or more	This equals 2 dot balls per over bowled. Effective use of variations, bowling into the wicket, and mixing up Yorkers (wider and on the stumps) is crucial.

The team goals emphasize strategic accumulation and maintaining pressure throughout the innings, ensuring consistency across all 50 overs.

Team Batting Goals:

Overs 1-10: Score a minimum of 50 runs for the loss of no wickets.

Overs 11-40: Score at a minimum of 5.00 RPO, achieving a total of 220 by the end of the phase. This phase must also see the establishment of two 60/70+ partnerships, with one of the top four batters remaining at the crease.

Overs 41-50: Score at a minimum of 10-12 RPO, aiming for a final score between 290-300, while ensuring the team bats all 50 overs.

Team Bowling Goals:

Overs 1-10: Take at least 3 wickets, or 4-5 if the score goes above 100.

Overs 11-40: Restrict scoring to below 5 RPO and take at least 5 wickets.

Overs 41-50: Restrict scoring to below 6 RPO, with the ultimate goal of restricting the opposition’s total score to below 200.

 

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