Peterson views suspension as learning process

– Aims to use experience as guide for other athletes

By Timothy Jaikarran

Carlos Peterson-Griffith was recently suspended for a period of twelve months by the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) and the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF).

His transgression has been his violating the GAPFL Constitution by competing at a StrongFit competition in Barbados on May 4-5. Peterson’s suspension occurred because he violated both the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) Constitution and the GAPLF Constitution.
In Article 14.9 of the IPF Constitution, it is stated, “Participating in non-IPF competition: any lifter, coach, referee or official who competes or participates in an international powerlifting or bench press competition not organised, sanctioned or approved by the IPF shall not be permitted to take part in any IPF international or regional competition for a period of 12 months from the date of that non-approved competition.”
The GAPLF’s Constitution states, in Section 12, Article 1, point 4: “The stated reasons for suspension are not a closed list, and the executive members shall collectively exercise their discretion when opting to suspend a member of the GAPLF.
The following may be subject to suspension: Any lifter who participates in a contest with other countries without the permission of the GAPLF.”
In a sit-down with <<Guyana Times Sport>>, Peterson said, “I was recently informed by the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Federation (GAPLF) that due to my participation in the Strong fit event that was held in Barbados on May 4th-5th 2019, where I neglected to inform the Federation of my plans to participate, it has caused me to be suspended for a period of 12 months.
“The GAPLF has stated that I had breached the Federation’s constitutional rules by not informing them first, and for this I am very sorry, because I would have disappointed everyone who believes in me. I made an appeal to the Federation (GAPLF) to reconsider this course of action, or at least allow me to participate in Sweden then reinstate the suspension, because as athletes we need some form of discipline for our actions and because I was unaware that an approval was needed by the Federation for me to take part in such an event.”
Peterson went on to state that even though he made an appeal it was denied; and though he is disappointed, he knows that it will make him a better, stronger person, who can share his experience with other athletes to ensure that they don’t make the same mistake that he had made.
Peterson has said, “I would like to say thank you to my sponsors: Jamie McDonald (Fitness Express), Lucas Matos (Space Gym), Charles Ramson Jr, Guyana Power and Light (GPL), Guyana Shore Base Inc (GYSBI), etc. for believing in me. I want to apologise to my sponsors, fans, friends, family and the entire country for disappointing everyone, since I will not be able to represent at this year’s World Classics Powerlifting Championship.”