Resurfacing of Reliance ground almost completed

President of the Reliance Sports Ground Development Committee (RSGDC), Trevis Simon, has expressed satisfaction with the resurfacing of the venue as the completion of the project looms.
The RSGDC has worked in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Regional Democratic Council of Region 2 (Essequibo Coast). G$2 million was given to the project. To complete the job, 140 loads of earth and 40 loads of sand were thrown on the ground to help with its upliftment.
“I [am] delighted with the project so far, and we are also excited to see that the ground will be looking in better shape now. It was low, and now it (is) raised to about eight inches, which will be good even if rain falls heavily,” Simon related.
Simon has also expressed gratitude to the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) for help to make this a reality.
The project was awarded earlier this year, but due to the inclement weather, work began only in mid-October.
“Thankfully, we got going several weeks ago, and now, with good weather prevailing, the job should finish by end of next week; we are in the process of the final stages.
“I must say thanks to the RDC
of Region 2, and this kind of input will do a world of good to keep our youths active, when you have a wonderful facility,” Simon mentioned.

Since formation of the RSGDC in 2017, there has been a total transformation of the ground, with a main pavilion, dressing room, toilets, canteen and a brand-new fence all being installed.
Earlier this year as well, $10 million were given for development of this ground. The funds have been spent on those mentioned above. That funding came from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport through its developmental youth programme.
“I can proudly say that we at the RSGDC are extremely happy with the progress so far. this is a ground for everyone, and I am glad the youths are benefiting,” Simon disclosed.
Apart from cricket competitions being played there, other sports, such as football, are regular featured too. Additionally, Heritage activities were carried out there, along with The Games last September.
As part of the RSGDC’s continuous plans, floodlights would soon be installed there sooner rather than later.
“This will certainly bring out the youths and families together. It always (is) fascinating to play sports under the lights, and we at the RSGDC will make every effort to have permanent lights at the ground,” Simon optimistically revealed.
Meanwhile, the ground had been a venue to help hone a plethora of established cricketers who went on to represent Essequibo, Guyana and even West Indies. Some of those players are: Ronsford Beaton, Mohindra Boodram, Clain Williams, Rovendra Mandolall, Balchand Shivamber (deceased), Lawrence Farnum, Rovindra Parsram, Alfred Maycock, Mark Austin and the late Shivanandan Madholall.