Godfrey Samuels, president of the Guyana National Domino Federation (GNDF), is heaping praises on the Government of Guyana following full backing from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the National Sports Commission (NSC) for Guyana’s participation in the 20th World Domino Championships in Antigua and Barbuda.
Samuels, along with GNDF Executive Member Wayne Griffith, received G$5.9 million in funding on Friday from Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, a sum that fully covers the expenses for 28 players and two officials for the championship, scheduled for August 10-18.
“We want to thank President Irfaan Ali,” said Samuels, noting that although the GNDF had formally written to the Ministry of Sport requesting assistance, it was during a People’s Progressive Party/Civic manifesto consultation that they had the opportunity to directly engage the President.
“After we explained to President Ali the significance of Guyana’s participation at this year’s championship, he made a commitment to support us. It’s the first time ever we’ve received this level of support. They’re covering the full budget we submitted. We’re extremely grateful,” Samuels added.
During Friday’s presentation, Director of Sport Steve Ninvalle reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting all disciplines, including dominoes, which he described as one of Guyana’s most popular pastimes.
“Dominoes is more than a leisure game in Guyana. At the competitive level, we’ve seen tremendous growth over the years, more structured tournaments, more clubs, and more representation,” Ninvalle said.
In 2023, Guyana hosted the World Domino Championships at the Guyana National Stadium, with the Government playing a central role in facilitating the event.
This year, Guyana will be one of 10 countries vying for over US$20,000 in cash prizes at the tournament, which will be hosted at the John E. Luce Building in St. John’s, Antigua.
Teams will compete across multiple formats, including Four-Hand Team, Three-Hand Male Team, Three-Hand Female Team, Male Pairs, Mixed Pairs, King of Domino, and Queen of Domino categories.
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