In an effort to safeguard the integrity of the sport, the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will host an anti-doping workshop on Sunday, April 27, at the National Racquet Centre.
According to a release from the GBA, the workshop will be facilitated by Dr Karen Pilgrim, the Member Country Representative of the Caribbean Regional Anti-Doping Organisation (RADO).
GBA President Steve Ninvalle
GBA President Steve Ninvalle stated that Dr Pilgrim’s expertise would provide valuable insights into the anti-doping process, helping local boxers, coaches, and administrators better understand the importance of clean sport and compliance with international standards.
“It’s important to ensure that boxing remains a clean sport,” said Ninvalle. “But in order for that to happen, everyone involved in the sport must be educated on what substances are permitted and what should be avoided.”
He also highlighted that anti-doping extended beyond just banned substances, and stressed the importance of ensuring that everyone involved in boxing, from coaches to boxers, understands their role in protecting the sport.
Ninvalle noted that, to date, no Guyanese boxer has ever failed a doping test or has been involved in any doping-related controversy.
The anti-doping workshop is geared at safeguarding the integrity of the sport
However, Ninvalle said, maintaining the sport’s integrity is paramount, particularly now, as Guyana experiences a period of growth and renewed interest in boxing.
Dr Pilgrim, a highly respected figure in the regional sporting community, is a recipient of the Golden Arrow of Achievement, one of Guyana’s national awards, in recognition of her contributions to sport.
She has served as a member of RADO’s Executive Committee since 2016 and has been a Doping Control Officer since 2009.
Her extensive experience includes both in-competition and out-of-competition testing, particularly during major international cricket tournaments.
