President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), Steve Ninvalle, has extended heartfelt congratulations to boxers Desmond Amsterdam and Colin Lewis on their recent promotions within the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).
The promotion serves as recognition of their outstanding performances at the recently concluded Caribbean Boxing Championship in St. Lucia.
Amsterdam, previously a Sergeant, has been promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant, while Lewis, formerly a Petty Officer, has been elevated to Senior Petty Officer.
Their advancement was approved by Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, upon the recommendations of their respective Branch Heads, underscoring the GDF’s commitment to recognising and rewarding excellence and dedication.
At the Caribbean Championship, Amsterdam showcased his skill in the 75kg division, picking up a hard-fought split decision victory over Trinidadian Olympian Arron Prince in the final.
Meanwhile, the gangly Lewis dominated his opponent, St. Lucia’s Justice Surage, in the 67kg category final, securing a commanding points victory to assist in Guyana being crowned Caribbean champions.
Ninvalle expressed his delight at the GDF’s decision to reward the two athletes, emphasising that their hard work and dedication are paying off.
He noted that the GDF is setting a precedent that should be emulated by other organisations, advocating for greater recognition of athletes who excel while representing Guyana on the regional and international stage.
“The GDF has always been supportive of its boxers, and this latest show of appreciation is yet another testament to that commitment,” Ninvalle stated.
He pointed to Amsterdam’s 2022 promotion, which followed his bronze medal performance at the American Boxing Confederation (AMBC) Elite Continental Championship in Ecuador.
Furthermore, Ninvalle assured that the GBA remains committed to providing not just Amsterdam and Lewis, but all of its boxers with opportunities to compete and gain exposure on regional and global platforms.
Meanwhile, in a statement from the GDF, Brigadier Khan congratulated the two boxers for their continued excellence, highlighting that their achievements bring pride not only to the Force but to the nation as a whole.
He also commended the GDF’s Sports Department for its role in fostering athletic success within the military.
“This is another historic moment for the Force,” he stated.
“While we are tasked with defending our nation, we are also leaders in every field possible. Your conduct, professionalism and ability to excel in everything you do, set a standard for others to follow.”
In St. Lucia, Guyana’s 16-man team picked up 35 points, which consisted of nine gold, three silver and two bronze medals to take the Caribbean title.
Other regional powerhouse Trinidad and Tobago was second with 28 points and the host country third.
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