By Delvon McEwan
The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) Tennis Open tournament is regarded as the nation’s premier tennis competition, where unceasing moments of intense rivalry precede inconceivable results in the form of close battles and upsets; or, on the other hand, complete dominance by seasonal performers.
Over the last two weeks, tennis enthusiasts were treated to some remarkable display on the court at the bank’s recreational facility during the eighth edition of the tourney.
In the backdrop of it all, Guyana Times Sport (GTS) interviewed Jamal Goodluck (JG), the President of the Guyana Lawn Tennis Association (GLTA), who noted it was a good tournament, while pointing to its future among other factors. The interview follows.
GTS: How would you rate the 2017 GBTI Open as compared to the preceding tournaments?
JG: The overall level of competition, promotion and participation at this year’s GBTI Open was good. I would say that it has been one of the memorable editions of the tournament.
GTS: Why was it so striking?
JG: This year, we had 122 matches that spanned 12 categories. It has been a while since we had so many matches played. It shows the interest is still there to play competitively.
GTS: The GLTA pays a lot of emphasis on the GBTI Tournament. Are you pleased with the level it is currently at?
JG: I am pleased with the level. However, we must never be too comfortable with our current state, because we will get complacent. There will always be room for improvement, and the GLTA and GBTI have started conversations on such.
GTS: There were several upsets in this tournament. Would you say the understudies have improved, or would you say the seniors are not doing anything to better their game?
JG: Definitely. I would say the juniors and understudies have improved their game. The quality of the matches this year has showed potential of growth. As noted in the closing ceremony by GBTI Marketing Manager Pamela Binda, the aggression and passion of the game was visible. The GLTA has recognized that there is need for additional avenues for the seniors to sharpen their skills, and has slated participation in regional tournaments.
GTS: As the President of the GLTA, how do you plan to make this tournament bigger?
JG: We are already looking at the expansion of the tournament to include the college players, members of the diaspora, and regional players. This would attract more opportunities for players to network and aspire to betterment.
GTS: How soon will there be such implementation?
JG: We trust that next year we can implement some elements of the expansion.
GTS: What are the positives you would take from this year’s tournament?
JG: The tennis family is strong across clubs (and) nationalities, and (is) geared towards the common vision. I reflected on the match between Brazilian Alexy Almedia and American Albert Razick, which lasted until midnight. However, there were persons that varied in age present for the last point. This tournament provided a safe space for persons to meet and have positive engagement. GBTI has seen the impact sport can have, and this gives hope of making a difference in the fabric of Guyana.
GTS: What are some of the challenges that the GLTA encountered in the 2017 edition, and how do you plan to remedy those encounters?
JG: Discipline has been a key area we have been working on. We are not at the place we need to be, but disciplinary systems are in place to address the breakdown of the culture of better sportsmanship. The sport is a reflection of our society, and by that indication, we also need to work on training of the players in the engagement of the sport.
GTS: Where do you see the GBTI Open in the next five years, since it is the country’s premier tennis tournament?
JG: The tournament should evolve into a regional tournament that caters for all levels of play and age.
The next major assignment for the GLTA is the hosting of the IGG Tennis Games in October, and according to the President, preparation will start in July.
“We have received the green light from GBTI to commence the training of the IGG team from the beginning of July. The Association has developed a High Performance Strategy in conjunction with the ITF Development Officer, and will be implemented it in hopes that it can be replicated by clubs and produce intense players.”
