Avinash Persaud has skill, temperament to compete at highest international levels of golf

Dear Editor,

The Guyana Open Golf Championship returns to the Lusignan Golf Club this weekend for what is expected to be two days of highly competitive golfing. As in previous years, there will be competitors from Suriname, Canada, USA, various parts of the Caribbean and elsewhere.

Thanks to the sterling efforts of Club President Aleem Hussain who has spearheaded a slew of sponsors, the course is in excellent condition and the membership is considerably expanded as opposed to previous years. The fraternity owes him a debt of gratitude.

The overwhelming favourite is the reigning champion Avinash Persaud who is seeking his sixth consecutive title and tenth overall (having won it in 2006, 09, 10, 12 and 14-18). He did not contest in 2007 and 08 and came second in 2011 (to the recently departed

Papo Haniff) and in 2013 (to Avinda Kishore, his younger brother).

The only sporting discipline that Guyana has produced world-class performers is cricket. Discerning observers are of the view that Avinash possesses the skill and temperament to compete at the highest international levels but the undeveloped state of the sport locally has denied him critical exposure and the likelihood of support. It is hoped that Guyana’s new status as an oil-producing country will help to open doors of support to him and other local talent.

The public is welcome to witness the competition at any time during the two days (free of charge) and can be assured that the closing stages on Sunday from approximately 3:00 pm will be full of excitement and keen rivalry.

Yours faithfully,

Ronald Bulkan