The Guyana Tennis Association (GLTA) in collaboration with Bakewell has undertaken the fourth edition of the Bakewell Junior Open with the objective to strengthen and expose the junior players to more court time as well as stronger competition.
The event also commemorates the late CEO of Bakewell, Naeem Nasir, in honour of his contribution to national sport events, specifically tennis. Nasir constructed a tennis court at President’s College during 2010, where matches were played during the course of competition.
Young tennis players.
Bakewell has been a big supporter in the junior tennis development and at the opening ceremony company officials reconfirmed this commitment to the association. It goes beyond financial contribution to a place of understanding the importance of providing a safe space for the creation of productive young people.
There has been growth in the entrance of new players into the competition from upcoming clubs. President, Jamal Goodluck, indicated that it is a good sign to press ahead for quality facilities so that more international players can be invited to participate next year. This is the only way we can see true growth and development.
Three categories- Under-12, Under-14 and Under-18- are being contested for boys and girls. The round- robin format is used for maximum competition and observance of performance. This is particularly used to prepare the players for the upcoming goodwill games at the end of October. Guyana will be hosting French Guiana and Suriname at this year’s Inter-Guiana Games, which will be rebranded.