District Nine, representing Upper Takatu, Upper Essequibo (Rupununi), emerged victorious in the Elite Kayaking and Nature Tours Inter-District competition.
The reigning champions, District Ten (Linden), were defeated on their home turf on the Watooka Riverfront.
Securing a total of 53 points, District Nine clinched the first-place prize of $200,000.
Their impressive performance included victories in the male and female relay events, as well as the female individual sprint categories.
They also secured second place in the female individual event.
The elated teacher and coach, Leroy Gregory, expressed his pride in the team’s achievements, having been with them since the beginning, training and guiding them.
District Two, Pomeroon-Supenaam, secured the second position with 42 points.
They won the female individual long-distance race, placed second in the male relays, and third in the female relay and mixed team events, earning them $150,000.
District Ten, Upper Demerara Upper Berbice, secured 39 points, taking home $100,000. They claimed victory in the male sprint events and secured third place in the male individual long-distance, relay, and female sprint categories.
Bonita Lawrence of District Nine earned the title of female Kayaking champion, while Lashley Tito of District Ten was crowned the male kayaker of the competition.
Both champions expressed their joy and satisfaction with their performances and representing their respective regions.
The event, now in its second year, featured 12 districts competing in eight categories.
Deon Anderson served as the coordinator, highlighting the event’s contribution to promoting sport-tourism in the region.
The Inter-District Kayaking 2023 competition showcased the impressive skills and determination of the participants, further solidifying kayaking as a thriving sport in Guyana.