GDF boxers promoted after Caribbean Championships success
Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) President Steve Ninvalle has extended heartfelt congratulations to boxers Desmond Amsterdam and Colin Lewis on their recent promotions within the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).
Desmond Amsterdam and Colin Lewis were richly rewarded for their efforts at the Caribbean Boxing Championships
The promotions serve as recognition of their outstanding performances at the recently-concluded Caribbean Boxing Championships 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.
Desmond Amsterdam and Colin Lewis were richly rewarded for their efforts at the Caribbean Boxing Championships
Their advancement was approved by Chief of Defence Staff, Brigadier Omar Khan, MSS, upon the recommendation of their respective Branch Heads, underscoring the GDF’s commitment to recognising and rewarding excellence and dedication.
At the Caribbean Championships, 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 was 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 stages.
Desmond Amsterdam and Colin Lewis were richly rewarded for their efforts at the Caribbean Boxing Championships
“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 remained committed to providing not just Amsterdam and Lewis, but all of its boxers with opportunities to compete and gain exposure on the 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 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, from nine gold medals, three silvers and two bronzes to take the Caribbean title. Other regional powerhouse Trinidad and Tobago were second with 28 points and the host country third.
