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The Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMRSC) is gearing up for a thrilling start to its 2025 Drag Racing Championship, with over 70 drivers registered for the season-opening Quarter-Mile Grudge Battle.

The event, which will take place at the South Dakota Circuit today (February 16), promises a high-octane spectacle as top racers compete head-to-head.

A surge in new competitors underscores the sport’s growing popularity in Guyana.

Safety First as GMRSC Champions Responsible Racing

The GMRSC emphasises safe and responsible motorsport, providing a structured environment for drivers to experience the thrill of racing.  The club actively discourages speeding on public roads and encourages enthusiasts to bring their vehicles to the track for sanctioned competition.

“We’re thrilled by the growing interest in drag racing and the increasing number of competitors,” said Luis Kumar, a GMRSC Executive. “Our goal is to create a safe and competitive space where drivers can push their limits without putting themselves or others at risk.”

A surge in new competitors underscores the growing popularity of the sport in Guyana (PHOTO: Ackeem Thomas)

Quarter-Mile Showdown Promises High-Speed Drama

Spectators can expect a day of intense racing, nail-biting finishes, and fierce rivalries as drivers battle for supremacy in their respective classes.  The Quarter-Mile Grudge Battle is anticipated to draw a large crowd of motorsport enthusiasts eager to witness the high-speed action.

Tickets are available for $2,000 (adults) and $1,000 (children).

Fans are advised to access the South Dakota Circuit to use the Airport Entrance.

The GMRSC invites all competitors, fans, and motorsport enthusiasts to join the excitement and support the continued growth of drag racing in Guyana. (GMR&SC Press Release) 

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The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is working to have a state-owned Forensic Interview Unit before the end of this year, or early next year, to help reduce the backlog of child abuse cases.

A Forensic Interview Unit is a place where interviews are conducted with children who may have been abused or neglected. These interviews are part of a legal investigation.

So far, the ministry has already sent officers who will work in the unit to train in India, subject minister Dr. Vindhya Persaud revealed on Saturday.

She announced the establishment of the unit at a press conference at the National Communications Network (NCN), Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown.

“Even though we are heavily subsidising Blossom Inc. and Child Link, there are back logs,” Minister Persaud said, adding, “You should not have a child waiting. You want that to be done in a timely way.”

The intention would also be to ensure that when the cases are done, the child benefits from trauma-focused counselling. “So we will train persons to man that unit to effectively do the interviews,” she said.

Based on how a forensic interview unit works, a forensic interviewer asks the child questions in a neutral, non-leading way, and the interview is recorded to preserve the child’s statement for legal purposes, while other team members observe the interview through a one-way mirror.

Such interviews are conducted to help ensure the child’s safety, to help the child heal, and to gather information that can be used in court.

Forensic interviewers are highly trained and experienced in child forensic interviewing techniques, and they have a solid understanding of child development.

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Veerasammy Permaul’s prowess was on full display as he bagged 6-75 to lead the Guyana Harpy Eagles to crucial first-innings points against the West Indies Academy in their rain-affected Regional Four-Day encounter at the National Stadium, Providence.

This performance also saw Permaul reach a remarkable milestone of 652 first-class wickets.

The match, which saw significant interruptions due to rain, reached a tense climax on the final day.  Having been dismissed for 253 in their first innings, Guyana needed a strong bowling performance to gain an advantage in the day/night contest.

Permaul, bowling with his characteristic guile and control, proved to be the difference-maker as his 29 overs crippled the Academy’s batting lineup on Saturday.

Despite half-centuries from Joshua Bishop (54) and Rivaldo Clarke (50) and contributions from Ackeem Auguste (43) and Guyanese Mavendra Dindyal (32), the Academy could not withstand Permaul’s onslaught and were eventually bowled out for 249, giving the Harpy Eagles a slender but vital first-innings lead.

Nial Smith (2-57) and Gudakesh Motie (2-63) provided valuable support to Permaul.

Earlier in the match, Ronaldo Alimohamed top-scored for the Harpy Eagles with 66, while Gudakesh Motie contributed a vital 52.

Kemol Savory (39), Raymond Perez (29), Kevin Sinclair (29), and Kevlon Anderson (22) also chipped in, but the innings was held back by disciplined bowling from the Academy, with Jediah Blades (4-37) and Zishan Motara (3-37) leading the charge.

At the close of play on the final day, the Harpy Eagles were 44 for 4 in their second innings, with Kevin Sinclair contributing 24 and Tevin Imlach unbeaten on seven.

The Championship will now take a break before resuming on March 5.

In round four, the unbeaten Guyana Harpy Eagles will travel to Sabina Park to face the Jamaica Scorpions.

Below are the summarised scores from the other matches:

At Kensington Oval in Barbados: Jamaica Scorpions 231 all out from 67.5 overs (Odean Smith 50, Jeavor Royal 43; Chaim Holder 3-66, Kraigg Brathwaite 2-1, Jomel Warrican 2-42, Kemar Roach 2-45) & 180 from 54.2 overs (Javelle Glenn 66, Jeavor Royal 29, John Campbell 25; Jomel Warrican 3-42, Ramon Simmonds 2-36, Chaim Holder 2-56) vs Barbados Pride 293 all out from 86.4 overs (Jonathan Drakes 108, Leniko Boucher 55, Chaim Holder 26*, Matthew Forde 26; Brad Barnes 6-94, Jermaine Blackwood 2-32) & 121-1 from 33.5 overs (Jonathan Drakes 52*, Kraigg Brathwaite 47*; Odean Smith 1-24). Barbados Pride won by nine wickets.

At Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba: Trinidad and Tobago Red Force 529-5 dec. from 125 overs (Jason Mohammed 204*, Joshua Da Silva 152, Amir Jangoo 60; Rahkeem Cornwall 3-127) & 191-3 from 40.5 overs (Joshua DaSilva 100*, Cephas Cooper 52, Joshua James 29*; Alzarri Joseph 2-36) vs Leeward Islands Hurricanes 433 all out from 153.3 overs (Mikyle Louis 110, Kadeem Henry 100, Karima Gore 68, Jewel Andrew 40; Khary Pierr 5-93,  Yannic Cariah 5-103).  Result: Match drawn

 At Windsor Park in Dominica: Combined Campuses and Colleges 216 all out from 71.3 overs (Damel Evelyn 53, Johann Jeremiah 40, Demario Richards 30; Darel Cyrus 5-71, Kenneth Dember 3-68) & 60-0 from 22 overs (Damel Evelyn 37*, Kieran Powell 20*) vs Windward Islands Volcanoes 248 all out from 77.5 overs (Gian Benjamin 49, Kenneth Dember 49; Akeem Jordan 5-52, Romario Greaves 3-64). Result: Match drawn.

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With 275 cases of abuse reported to the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security for the year so far, subject minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud has made a direct appeal to members of the public to report cases early.

At a press conference on Saturday, in the studio of the National Communications Network (NCN), Dr Persaud reported that there were 4,038 cases of child abuse for 2024.

“Please call us and let us know. An early report can help someone,” she said, as she noted how venting on social media instead can result in more harm.

In Region One (Barima/Waini), there were 51 cases of child sexual abuse cases; Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), 181; Region Three (Essequibo Islands/West Demerara), 145; Region Four (Demerara/Mahaica), 466; Region Five (Mahaica/Berbice), 83; Region Six (East Berbice/Corentyne), 147; Region Seven (Cuyuni/Mazaruni), 10; Region Eight (Potaro/Siparuni), 21; Region Nine (Upper Takutu/Upper Essequibo), 50; and Region 10 (Upper Demerara/Berbice), 48.

Minister Persaud pointed to a shortage of childcare officers as a challenge affecting the work of the ministry, noting how the ratio represents about 90 to 100 cases per child protection officer.

She said she is hoping that more persons will see the need that exists and be moved to step in and take up the mantle.

At the moment, there are only 48 childcare officers stationed across the country. In the hinterland, Minister Persaud said, is especially difficult to meet the need.

Minister Persaud renewed her call for persons to use the 914 hotline in reporting cases. The hotline was launched in December 2020 in response to the significant decline in the reporting of violence and child abuse.

“Whenever there is a case…we must report it, even if it has nothing to do with us. Don’t turn a blind eye,” Dr Persaud had encouraged.

Another option is the iMatter app. Police officers have also been specially trained under the Cop Squad initiative on how to handle domestic violence cases, particularly when taking reports and dealing with victims.

The post Report abuse early to the Ministry – Dr Persaud appeared first on News Room Guyana.

A Rapid Response Team has been formed by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security to deal with reports of abuse that may come in beyond normal working hours.

This is a designated team that will be on hand to respond to cases no matter the time of day, subject minister, Dr Vindhya Persaud explained on Saturday.

Speaking with the News Room following a press conference at the National Communications Network (NCN), Homestretch Avenue, Georgetown Minister Persaud explained: “At times, reports come in the evening and the way we work now is within the normal working hours.”

“That is where we will try to stretch our arms as far as Regions Three, Region Five,” Director of the Childcare Protection Agency Levine Gouveia shared.

For the pilot project, she said a vehicle has already been secured and that once an officer is available, he will be deployed immediately to conduct an emergency investigation or rescue.

The police, she explained, are not able to act immediately at times because there is no vehicle or female officer available.

“We understand what needs to be done,” she assured, as she noted how the police at times are unable to work a case immediately because of the lack of a vehicle or female childcare and protection officer.

Minister Persaud renewed her call for persons to use the 914 hotline in reporting cases. The hotline was launched in December 2020 in response to the significant decline in the reporting of violence and child abuse.

“Whenever there is a case…we must report it, even if it has nothing to do with us. Don’t turn a blind eye,” Dr Persaud had encouraged.

Another option is the iMatter app. Police officers have also been specially trained under the Cop Squad initiative on how to handle domestic violence cases, particularly when taking reports and dealing with victims.

The post Human Services Ministry to work ‘after hours’ on cases on abuse appeared first on News Room Guyana.

On Saturday morning, a large number of residents from the surrounding areas gathered at the Mibicuri Secondary School, situated in Black Bush Polder, Region Six to collect the much-anticipated  cash grant of $100,000, a financial relief initiative implemented by the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government.

Lurick Martin Punch receives a cash grant

Among those in attendance was Lurick Martin Punch, a 37-year-old labourer hailing from Mibicuri South Black Bush Polder. As a devoted father of one, Lurick expressed his gratitude for the grant during an interview with News Room, stating his happiness at receiving this financial assistance.

“This is something nice what I waiting for long and I finally get it now. I going and put it to good use. I wish it could happen again,” Punch revealed.

Lurick Martin Punch

Neil Mohabir, a 43-year-old carpenter from Lesbeholden South, was also present at the event. A proud father of five, Neil revealed his plans to wisely allocate the grant money to further support his children.

“I feel so proud and happy to the government for assisting us with this $100,000. This money here, I will buy some stuff for my children them,” he said.

Neil Mohabir

Hemlall Jagmohan, 40, from Mibicuri North, a father of three and a security guard said,” i received the cash grant and I plan to spend it with my children; them get school tour and I will support them.”

Hemlall Jagmohan

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Guyana’s Junior Golden Jaguars stand on the brink of a historic achievement as they prepare for a crucial final group match against the British Virgin Islands in the Concacaf qualifiers.

A decisive victory on Sunday evening could qualify them for the FIFA U-17 World Cup, which will be held in Qatar this November.

However, the Jaguars’ path to qualification hinges on a series of favorable outcomes, particularly concerning the group leaders Costa Rica and Trinidad and Tobago.

For Guyana to progress, they must not only secure a significant win to enhance their goal difference—currently at +3—but also hope that neither Costa Rica (+17) nor Trinidad (+11) finds the back of the net in their encounter.

A win for the Jaguars and a draw between Costa Rica and Trinidad would result in a three-way tie on eight points.

The top-of-the-table clash kicks off at 21:00h, shortly after Guyana’s clash with the BVI at 18:00h.

Despite the challenging scenario, the Jaguars are optimistic following a remarkable 2-2 draw against Costa Rica, a team ranked sixth in the world.

This standout performance showcased Guyana’s resilience, especially considering they are currently ranked 21st among U-17 FIFA World Cup contenders.

The post Guyana eyes historic FIFA U-17 World Cup qualification appeared first on News Room Guyana.

Fitness Express has reaffirmed its long-standing support for the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF), pledging to reward the top overall performers at the upcoming Novices/Juniors Championship.

The event, which marks the start of the GAPLF’s 2025 calendar, will take place at the Saint Stanislaus College Auditorium from 09:00h.

Fitness Express owner/manager Jamie McDonald met with GAPLF President Franklin Wilson at the company’s headquarters in Campbellville to confirm the continued partnership.

“I would like to affirm the continued support of Fitness Express to you Mr. President and the powerlifting fraternity,” McDonald said. “Our support to the overall top performers is apart from our commitment given before.

This is our way of giving back and saying thanks to the athletes and the federation for allowing us to be a part of your sport. Many of the athletes and administrators support our products and it is only natural for us to show appreciation.”

Wilson expressed his gratitude to McDonald and Fitness Express. “You have never turned down a request for support,” he said.

“Even though presented sponsorship yesterday for the smooth running of the competition, you did not turn down a further request to support the overall athletes, both female and male.

This speaks volumes of the kind of individual you are, and, on behalf of the executive committee and all our athletes, I express heartfelt appreciation. We wish you and your business continued success.”

The post Powerlifting: Fitness Express backs Novices/Juniors Championship appeared first on News Room Guyana.

The Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) on Saturday said it has decided to close the investigation into the racially charged incident at Burrowes School of Art, which was reported by Mr. Ivor Thom on September 7, 2024.

Despite extensive investigative efforts, the accused individual could not be identified, prompting Thom to agree to bring the matter to a close, the ERC said in a statement.

The ERC’s investigation was launched following an article published on September 21, 2024, which reported the resignation of a Burrowes School of Art administrator due to racist remarks.

Thom’s complaint, submitted on September 30, 2024, described an encounter with an individual who allegedly made racially offensive comments.

In the weeks that followed, the ERC said it carried out a thorough investigation, which included canvassing the area, gathering eyewitness statements, and attempting to secure video footage. They also sought assistance from the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports and the Protected Areas Commission, but all efforts to identify the accused were unsuccessful.

On January 3, 2025, the ERC contacted Thom to update him on the investigation’s progress. During the call, the ERC said Thom expressed that he considered the matter closed and did not wish to pursue further action. On January 8, 2025, the ERC formally requested written confirmation from Thom regarding his decision, but as of today, no response has been received.

Given these developments, the ERC has now closed the case. The Commission expressed regret that, despite diligent efforts, the investigation had reached a dead end due to the inability to identify the individual involved.

The post Thom agrees to close investigation into racist remarks incident at Burrowes School of Art – ERC appeared first on News Room Guyana.

President Irfaan Ali on Friday turned the sod for the state-of-the-art $11.4 billion West Demerara Hospital unfolding a new era for healthcare in Region Three.

The new hospital will feature over 150 beds, four operating theatres, intensive care units (ICUs), neonatal and paediatric ICUs, and advanced diagnostics, including MRI and CT scans to provide patients with advanced care.

Wards will be designed to provide privacy for all patients.

President Ali said the ongoing transformation in the healthcare sector is part of a larger strategy aimed at improving the quality of life and prosperity for every citizen.

The medical institution will mark a complete overhaul of healthcare services in the region, with significant progress already recorded.

The current West Demerara Regional Hospital has been serving the region for 79 years, and with this new development, President Ali said steps are being taken to further enhance healthcare in the area..

“In the outpatient, we’ll have endoscopy, ear, nose and throat clinic, dermatology, ophthalmology, internal medicine, dialysis, gyneacology, ECG, ultrasound, cardiology. And in digital imaging, we’ll have MRI, CT scanner … All of these services will come with this new hospital,” the head of state disclosed.

He explained that Region Three residents currently travel to Georgetown for specialised diagnostic procedures.

But once the new facility is operational, patients will be able to undergo immediate evaluations and life-saving procedures, such as stent replacements, without needing to leave the region.

Minister of Health Dr Frank Anthony reminded those present that healthcare improvements are not limited to Region Three.

He highlighted the government’s plans to construct hospitals in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine.

A state-of-the-art Maternal and Child Health institution is also being constructed at Ogle along the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) and a new hospital in Region Six.

According to the president, this transformation means that citizens across Guyana will soon experience higher quality of medical care closer to home.

“We are now going beyond the manifesto; far beyond. That is why you are seeing these types of transformational projects that are happening. We are going to change how and the quality of healthcare that we’re delivering for our people and it’s going to make a huge difference,” Minister Anthony stated.

Regional Chairman Inshan Ayube welcomed the new development, highlighting that Region Three is one of the fastest growing regions in Guyana.

With the region expanding, he underscored that it is important for a new healthcare institution to be established in the region.

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand and Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Sonia Parag were also in attendance. The hospital is expected to be completed by 2028. The construction works will be undertaken by China CAMC Engineering CO. Limited (CAMCE) and Sinopharm Int’l (China Sinopharm International Corporation), a consortium. [DPI]

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