Chatargum, Persaud top 2024 Senior Barebow Open tourney
…historical landmark achieved with physiotherapist’s presence
Archery Guyana brought the curtains down on the 2024 Senior Barebow Open tournament, contested at the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue in Georgetown on Sunday, January 12, 2025.
Archery Guyana has recorded notable achievements during this competition. This was the first time one of its competitions has been streamed live, and this was also the first time it has utilised the globally recognised IANSEO software for live scoring. This technology ensures immediate updates of results, offering real-time insights for athletes, coaches and fans alike.
A missive from Archery Guyana detailed that everyone was treated to thrilling performances as archers vied for top honours.
Physiotherapist Vanessa Wickham
Complete results are as follows:
Barebow Men
Mehandra Chatargum – Gold
Gregory McKoy – Silver
Nolan Gray – Bronze
Barebow Women
Juanita Persaud – Gold
Roshini Boodhoo – Silver
Melesa Ramnaraine – Bronze
At the presentation ceremony, Director of Shooting, Mr. Ryan McKinnon, delivered closing remarks, and medals were presented to the winners while Lancaster caps were given to the finalists. Archery Guyana President Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon also expressed gratitude to the Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport, the Honourable Charles Ramson; Director of Sport Mr. Steve Ninvalle; National Sports Commission President Godfrey Munroe and the Executive Committee of the Guyana Olympic Association; Mr. Samuel Arjoon of Guyana Beverages Inc. and Oasis Water; Ms. Vanessa Wickham of the National Sports Clinic, and Dr. Ariane Mangar of the Ministry of Health, Physiotherapist Stowell Barry and members of the media for their invaluable support.
Next weekend, the auditorium of the Cyril Potter College of Education would come alive with action in the 2024 Senior RECURVE Open. Saturday January 18th would see the ranking rounds being conducted, and Sunday January 19th would witness the Eliminations and Finals. All Guyanese Archers are invited to participate.
2024 Senior Barebow Gold Medalist Juanita Persaud (women) and Mehandra Chatargum (men) (C) flanked by silver and bronze medalists
Meanwhile, For the first time in the history of Archery Guyana, a professional physiotherapist was present at the Archery Nationals, providing essential support to athletes during the prestigious event. This groundbreaking initiative is a testament to the Federation’s commitment to athlete wellness and high-performance standards.
This historic collaboration was made possible through the invaluable support of Ms. Vanessa Wickham of the National Sports Clinic and Dr. Ariane Mangar of the Ministry of Health. Physiotherapist Stowell Barry, a skilled professional with a passion for sports therapy, delivered tailored treatments to the athletes, ensuring their optimal performance and minimising injury risks.
“We are thrilled to have taken this important step forward in athlete care,” said Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon President of Archery Guyana. “This initiative underscores our dedication to supporting our athletes both on and off the field. Special thanks go to Ms. Vanessa Wickham, Dr. Ariane Mangar and the Ministry of Health for making this possible. We also commend the exceptional work of physiotherapist Stowell Barry, who played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this initiative.
“The essential role of the physiotherapist in sport is critical at all levels. Our goal is to provide the best treatment and rehabilitation of injuries to athletes pre-, post- and during competition, and to provide performance support through injury prevention, maintenance and recovery interventions.
“The National Sports Clinic commits to working with Archery Guyana and we are excited to be a part of this great collaboration.”
Archery Guyana remains committed to further integrating sports science into its programmes. By continuously enhancing support for athletes, the Federation is paving the way for greater achievements in the sport, both locally and internationally.