Blog

Press Release from Slingerz FC

Slingerz FC made a bold statement at the just-concluded Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo, held at the Marriott Hotel, by blending the worlds of professional football and national development.

The club’s active participation at the Youth Forum set it apart as the only sports organisation to make a special presentation during the event.

In a memorable moment, last season’s Elite League leading scorer, 20-year-old Marcus Tudor, who netted 18 goals, had the honour of presenting Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo with a personalised Slingerz FC jersey.

The jersey, emblazoned with the number seven to signify Jagdeo’s role as Guyana’s seventh President, was a symbol of both admiration for national leadership and a commitment to fostering youth development through football.

The club’s initiative resonated strongly with key figures in attendance.

Slingerz FC also had the privilege of meeting Anthony Whyte, Chairman of the conference and a devoted football enthusiast whose own sons have represented Guyana’s national team, the Golden Jaguars.

Whyte expressed his pride and appreciation for the club’s visit, highlighting how the passion for football can bridge the gap between sports and broader business and energy sectors.

According to Slingerz FC, the club is dedicated to elevating professional football in Guyana while also illustrating its proactive role in driving positive change by connecting with influential stakeholders.

The former Elite League champions stated that this initiative is also part of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts.

Through its young players, the club aims to engage various segments of society in discussions on youth empowerment through sport.

Focusing on football excellence and community impact, Slingerz FC seeks to contribute to a stronger, more dynamic sports landscape in the country.

The post Slingerz FC shines at Guyana Energy Conference and Youth Forum appeared first on News Room Guyana.

National Junior Chess Champion Ricardo Narine has been selected by the Guyana Chess Federation (GCF) to compete in the SITTU Barbados Open Chess Championship 2025 from February 20-24.

The competition will occur in the Grand Salle in the Tom Adams Financial Centre in Bridgetown, St. Michael, Barbados.

Narine, who has an ELO rating of 1714, will compete in the Group B category of the tournament.

Narine, a two-time National Junior Chess Champion, has proven time and time again his skill and resilience over the chess board, winning many rapid competitions over the years.

The GCF is confident he will do well and earn ELO rating points.

Joining him are Under-16 National Chess Champion and Candidate Master Sachin Pitamber and the ever-determined Alek Ubaldo Singh. Pitamber and Ubaldo Singh have taken up the challenge of playing in the competition to earn valuable experience and rating points.

Pitamber, who has an ELO rating of 1779, will join Narine to battle it out in Group B, facing off against players with FIDE ratings between 1700-2099.

Meanwhile, Alek, who will be celebrating his 13^th birthday over the action-packed weekend, is fearlessly stepping into Group C (1400- 1699), proving that age is just a number for strategic brilliance.

Ubaldo Singh has an ELO rating of 1462. While Narine and Pitamber have already felt the heat of international competition, this will be Alex’s debut on the global stage.

These talented young men are ready to challenge their opponents in the heavily competitive tournament where a pool of US$5,000 in cash prizes is up for grabs in each category.

The GCF is confident that these young, avid chess players will emerge as better players from the experience of playing in this tournament.

The post Guyanese trio to compete in Barbados Open Chess Championship appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Demerara Under-15 all-rounder Shahid Ramzan recently benefitted from the benevolence of entrepreneur Vishnu Ramjeet and his business Double ‘V’ Imports and Auto Sales of Lusignan, East Coast Demerara.

Ramjeet, during a simple presentation, handed over a Gray Nicholls cricket bat to the 14-year-old, who is a left-handed top-order batsman and right-arm off-spinner.

Ramjeet, who himself has played for a number of years for the Lusignan Sports Club, said he has been following keenly the exploits of young Ramzan and he is impressed with his growth and development.

Fourteen-year-old Ramzan, who plays for the Georgetown Cricket Club, was selected in the Demerara squad for the upcoming Guyana Cricket Board’s Inter-county 50-over competition following some impressive performances in the Demerara Cricket Board’s Inter-Association tournament late last year.

Ramjeet, in presenting the bat, wished Ramzan well in the Inter-county competition and reiterated that discipline and fitness are key factors in progressing through the ranks.

Ramjeet also underscored the significance of striking a balance between cricket and academics, noting that they complement each other.

“Be focused on your goals and ensure that you remain fit and discipline, because playing sport is about discipline. Also, fitness- both physical and mental- will make you sharper and more alert and it also helps with quick decision-making,” Ramjeet advised the young man.

“On behalf of Double ‘V’ Imports and Auto Sales, we wish you well in the Inter-county competition. Continue to put in the work, train hard and aspire to be a student of the game.”

Ramzan expressed elation at receiving the bat, stating: “I want to thank you very much. Please know that this gesture is very much appreciated. Also, I’m grateful for the words of encouragement.”

Double ‘V’ Imports and Auto Sales imports Japanese automobile, including cars, canters, buses and SUVs. Pre-orders can be done by calling +592-627-2300 or emailing doublevimporter@gmail.com.

Consistency

Appointed skipper of the Select XI in the Inter-Association, Ramzan starred with bat and ball, copping two Player-of-the-Match awards in three completed games.

After scoring 25 in his team’s opening defeat to champions Georgetown, the left-handed top-order batsman and off-spinner led his team to back-to-back wins over West Demerara and East Bank.

Against West Demerara at the Transport ground, Ramzan picked up 3-14 and made a match-winning 45 not out.

The following day, at the Farm ground, he picked up 4-13 and led the successful run-chase with an unbeaten 42 against East Bank.

His team’s final match against East Coast at the LBI ground was washed out, but his performances helped the Select XI to finish second overall behind Georgetown.

Meanwhile, Ramzan continued his fine form in January at the LBI ground, making 15 and taking 4-15 as Demerara Under-15 defeated East Coast Under-17 in a practice match ahead of the Inter-county.

Demerara Under-15 squad: Brandon Henry (Captain), Patrice Fraser (Vice-captain), Khush Seegobin, Lomar Seecharran, Nathan Bishop, Reyaz Latif, Makai Dowlin, Shahid Ramzan, Vinesh Kalpoo, Akeem Persaud, Afraz Khan, Joshua Bollers, Joshua Collette, Prosper Jacobus and Thierry Davis.

The post Demerara U-15 selectee Ramzan gets bat from Double ‘V’ Imports and Auto Sales appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Police are investigating a robbery that took place in Sophia on Thursday, in which a 21-year-old private of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Terrie McCalmon, was allegedly robbed at gunpoint.

The suspect, who is described as an identifiable male, stole McCalmon’s red and white XR motorcycle, valued at $495,000, which was also registered with the trade plate (MR 2).

According to reports, McCalmon was standing in front of his yard cleaning his motorcycle at around 20:30hrs when the perpetrator approached him from a western direction. The suspect, armed with a handgun, pointed the weapon at McCalmon and demanded that he hand over the motorcycle.

In fear for his life, McCalmon fled into his yard, leaving the motorcycle behind with the key still in the ignition. The suspect then mounted the motorcycle and rode away in an eastern direction, making off with the vehicle.

Investigations into the incident are currently ongoing as police work to track down the suspect involved in the robbery.

The post Soldier robbed of motorcycle at gunpoint in Sophia appeared first on News Room Guyana.

A robbery in the early hours of Thursday at Turkeyen, East Coast Demerara saw an armed bandit pounce on Shawn Thomas, a 53-year-old teacher.

According to reports, Thomas and his wife, a 28-year-old teacher, were in their yard constructing a costume for Mashramani when the incident took place. The couple was working on their project within the confines of their concrete-fenced property when Thomas placed a black side bag, containing $250,000, on the western door of their house.

At this time, an identifiable male suspect, armed with a handgun in his right hand, jumped over the northern fence and approached Thomas. The suspect demanded that the victim hand over the money. In fear, Thomas informed the suspect that the cash was in his bag. The suspect then grabbed the bag containing the money.

As the suspect was attempting to leave, Thomas raised an alarm, which prompted the suspect to discharge a round from his firearm. The bullet struck Thomas in the right upper thigh. The suspect then jumped back over the fence and fled the scene on foot with the stolen cash.

Thomas’s wife quickly rushed him to a private hospital in the city, where he is currently receiving medical treatment. Thankfully, his condition is reported to be stable.

Investigations are ongoing, and several individuals have been questioned in relation to the robbery. Police are continuing their efforts to apprehend the suspect responsible for this violent crime.

 

The post Teacher, 53, robbed and shot by bandit at Turkeyen home appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Century Tamara Logistic Services Inc. (CTLS), a key player in the oil and gas industry in Guyana, has made its most significant appearance yet at the 2025 Guyana Energy Conference.

Held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel, the conference and expo concluded on Friday, with CTLS making waves through its larger-than-ever presence and a notable new initiative – bringing students from all corners of the country to experience this crucial event.

For several years, CTLS has attended the annual conference, a pivotal gathering for the country’s booming oil and gas sector. But this year, the company has clearly ramped up its participation, with commercial director Antony Ellis emphasising the importance of not only growing its footprint in the sector but also nurturing future talent.

“We’ve been coming here for years, and this is the most important oil and gas event in Guyana,” Ellis said in an exclusive interview.

“It’s essential for us to be here, especially with our growing global partnerships and our investment in Guyana. As you can see from our banner, we’ve brought more partners to the country, including Storm Current, one of the largest procurement hubs in the world.”

CTLS, a fully locally owned and operated oil and gas support services company, has deepened its commitment to the industry, establishing strong international relationships with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Ellis explained that the expanded presence at this year’s conference reflected the significant investments CTLS has made to enhance its operations in Guyana.

CTLS Commercial Director Antony Ellis

A key part of these investments includes the recent acquisition of a 10,000 square-foot warehouse, with an additional 10,000 square feet of laydown space. This new infrastructure is set to support the company’s growing operations and cement its role in the local oil and gas supply chain. CTLS has also long placed a strong emphasis on ground transport services, ensuring safe and efficient operations across the region.

However, Ellis was clear that while CTLS is optimistic about its growth in the sector, the company remains deeply committed to local content. This year, one of the standout features of CTLS’s participation in the conference was their engagement with the next generation of oil and gas professionals. They brought students from across the country, including from Berbice, Region Six, to help inspire and educate them about opportunities in the oil and gas industry.

“I’m a passionate advocate for local content,” Ellis explained. “The next generation is the key to our growth, and we need to ensure they are aware of the potential in this industry. That’s why we brought students here – to show them what’s possible.”

Ellis also voiced his hopes for continued support of local content policies, which are crucial to Guyana’s sustainable growth. “Our ambition is to grow within the local industry,” he said. “We want to see the policies evolve to better support 100% locally owned businesses. We need the government to keep supporting us and help us continue to build a stronger Guyanese industry.”

 

The post CTLS expands presence at Energy Conference, brings students into the spotlight appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo told scores of students gathered on the final day of the Guyana Energy Conference and Supply Chain Expo that the government will continue to allocate huge sums of money to educate Guyanese.

This commitment, he said, is part of plans to upskill and empower the population.

Dr. Jagdeo engaged students directly at the student forum organised on Friday as part of this year’s energy conference. At that forum, he answered questions posed by the students on several topics be it education plans or the government’s environmental focus.

Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo joined by the Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat and the Conference Chairman Anthony Whyte

Asked about jobs in the energy sector by a student of the Tagore Memorial Secondary School in Berbice, the Vice President outlined several scholarship and training opportunities the government has rolled out. Those include the more than 20,000 scholarships offered through the Guyana Online Academy of Learning (GOAL) programme, the Get Ready for Opportunities to Work (GROW) programme, and training offered by the Board of Industrial Training (BIT). He told the students that the government is investing heavily in these ventures.

“There is no restriction on the amount of money we will spend on educating our people,” Jagdeo emphasised.

Meanwhile, the Vice President also told the students about the efforts to improve every public school across the country, the government’s policies for good environmental management and investments being made across sectors.

The post ‘No restriction’ on money gov’t will spend to educate Guyanese – Jagdeo tells students appeared first on News Room Guyana.

In an act intended to celebrate the successes of its sporting personalities, the Everest Cricket Club on Thursday evening honoured its national players at a simple ceremony attended by members of the diplomatic community, club partners and well-wishers.

Three senior national cricketers and two table tennis players were in the spotlight as the club rewarded them with plaques to symbolise their achievements in the respective discipline.

Opening batsman Matthew Nandu (right) receives his plaque (Photo: News Room/Avenash Ramzan/February 20, 2025)

Guyana Harpy Eagles opening batsman Matthew Nandu, who made his CPL debut for the Guyana Amazon Warriors in 2023, was honoured, as well as effervescent all-rounder Junior Sinclair, who has been steadily making a name for himself in white ball cricket and earned a maiden call up to First-Class cricket this season.

All-rounder Junior Sinclair (right) collects his plaque (Photo: News Room/Avenash Ramzan/February 20, 2025)

Off-spinning all-rounder Richie Looknauth was also recognised for his successes on the field. The 25-year-old had a memorable First-Class debut for Guyana Harpy Eagles, picking up nine wickets (4-69 and 5-23) against Barbados Pride at Providence in January.

Off-spinner all-rounder Richie Looknauth (right) was also honoured (Photo: News Room/Avenash Ramzan/February 20, 2025)

Also sharing the limelight were national table tennis players Miguel Wong and his young brother Colin, both of whom have been excelling over the years in the racquet sport.

Table Tennis player Miguel (right) collects his plaque (Photo: News Room/Avenash Ramzan/February 20, 2025)

President of the Everest Cricket Club Manzoor Nadir said: “Tonight we’re here to celebrate these sporting personalities, especially those who have earned national caps. Too often we only lament failures and disappointments, and we do not see failures and disappointments as challenges for us to overcome.”

“Post-COVID we’ve had quite a bit of success at the Everest Cricket Club.”

Table Tennis player Colin Wong (right) is presented with his plaque (Photo: News Room/Avenash Ramzan/February 20, 2025)

Nadir stressed that Everest is more than just a cricket club, but rather an institution that produces versatile and well-rounded individuals.

“This club celebrates sport and more particularly wellness. You will still find a 72-year-old man playing table tennis with national champions. You will still find versatile people playing squash, lawn tennis, table tennis and pickleball.”

President of the Everest Cricket Club Manzoor Nadir addressing the gathering (Photo: News Room/Avenash Ramzan/February 20, 2025)

Assistant Treasurer of the Everest Cricket Club Safraz Sheriffudeen said the club remains committed to making a significant impact on sport in Guyana, a tradition that dates back to over a century.

“It is indeed a pleasure for us to be hosting this event tonight, as we honour the hardwork and accomplishment of our members. This evening is also meant to celebrate with them all they have achieved so far, as we not only offer best wishes but also endeavor to support them for even greater success.”

Assistant Treasurer of the Everest Cricket Club Safraz Sheriffudeen (Photo: News Room/Avenash Ramzan/February 20, 2025)

Additionally, the club announced that Guyana Harpy Eagles fast bowler Nial Smith, seen here second from left, has been appointed captain if its First Division team.

The post Everest celebrates successes of national cricketers, table tennis players appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Luis Rubiales’ appeal against a three-year FIFA ban from football has been dismissed.

Football’s world governing body suspended the former president of the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) from any football-related activity for three years in October 2023.

It followed a kiss on the lips of Spain player Jenni Hermoso during the medal ceremony after the team won the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final.

On Friday the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) dismissed Rubiales’ appeal, external on the grounds that “the sanction imposed is reasonable and proportional”.

CAS agreed with FIFA’s appeals committee – who upheld the suspension in January 2024 – that Rubiales “behaved in a manner contrary to the principles of the FIFA Disciplinary Code”.

On Thursday, Spain’s High Court convicted Rubiales of sexual assault for kissing Hermoso, 34, without consent and fined him 10,800 euros (£8,942).

Rubiales, 47, was also banned from going within a 200m radius of the Tigres player – and from communicating with her for one year.

He was acquitted of coercion, for allegedly trying to pressure Hermoso into saying publicly that the kiss was consensual.

Rubiales resigned from his position as the RFEF president but has always maintained the kiss was consensual.

Both Rubiales and Hermoso intend to appeal the verdict. (BBC)

The post Court of Arbitration for Sport dismisses Rubiales appeal against FIFA ban appeared first on News Room Guyana.