The Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) is preparing to host its election exercise today, and there may or may not be a new president of the association.
Outgoing GASA President Ivan Persaud
Despite this, the outgoing President Ivan Persaud has noted that he was pleased with his tenure.
In an interview with media operatives, Persaud indicated his contentment, stating, “One of the main goals under my stewardship was to increase participation in swimming, something that we’ve done a lot.”
He went on to disclose that this would not have been possible without the support of several clubs and coaches and expressed his gratitude. “And I would like to say thank you to all the clubs and affiliates who’ve done this. All of our clubs have increased participation by hundreds, so I want to thank them,” Persaud said.
He went on to explain that there were other goals set by GASA that were soon to come full circle. “Also, one of the other goals was to make sure we do our outreach programme in the outlying areas. We’re set for our open water clinic this month.”
Persaud further explained that this programme would take place at Lake Mainstay.
Additionally, a clinic for Coaches and officials is also high on the GASA schedule. “I always tried to make sure, under my stewardship, that we complete our FINA assisted programmes, educational programmes for coaches and our officials. So far, every year, we’ve had two of these clinics, this year we’re getting three which is an additional open water coaches’ clinic.”
President Persaud also shared that seeing Guyana’s top swimmers being rewarded for their tireless work was one of the highlights of his tenure. “One of the things that I am most proud of is our kids that were selected for scholarship programmes, we had Mr Hannibal Gaskin, then Mr De Nobrega and now it’s Andrew Fowler’s turn,” Persaud explained.
In the event that a new President takes the reins of the GASA, Persaud said there would be adequate funding, so that the Association can continue to function on a high level.
“Whether I continue or not, it’s nothing because we have already brokered from FINA to make sure we receive US$25,000 annually,” Persaud disclosed.
The Association is also expecting a shipment of swimming equipment so as to enhance the level of training in all areas of the country.
