The Reliance Sports Ground is undergoing major improvements, thanks to the efforts of the Government of Guyana and the Reliance Sports Ground Development Committee (RSGDC).
During a recent visit, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Charles Ramson Jr., announced that floodlights will soon be installed at the facility — a government initiative aimed at promoting evening sporting activities and keeping the youth actively engaged.
Minister Ramson Jr. also donated a variety of sports gear to the Reliance Hustlers Sports Club (RHSC), including equipment for cricket, volleyball, and badminton.
“We want to see our young people active, competitive, and growing in sport. This gear is a tool for development,” Ramson said. He further pledged his continued support for the ground’s development.
Alongside the lighting project, a new pavilion is currently under construction on the southern side of the ground. Although progress is temporarily slowed due to the rainy season, 50 per cent of the work is already completed. Once finished, the structure will accommodate up to 300 spectators.
According to Trevis Simon, President of both the RSGDC and RHSC, the pavilion is being self-funded through community-led fundraising efforts.
“We’ve made steady progress, and we’re proud of what’s been achieved. The support from the Minister and the government adds great momentum,” Simon said.
The Reliance Sports Ground already has a players’ pavilion named after the late Shivnandan Madholall, a former Guyana youth cricketer who passed away in 2013. That facility was constructed by the Ministry as a tribute to Madholall’s legacy.
Simon shared that the RSGDC regularly organises events such as one-day knockout cricket competitions to raise funds for the facility. Through such efforts, the committee has also purchased covers for the pitch, improving the ground’s resilience during wet weather.
“We’re committed to the ongoing development of this facility. It’s a community space that brings people together, and we’ll keep working to make it better,” Simon added, extending his appreciation to his dedicated team and community supporters.
The installation of the floodlights is expected to begin soon, with project completion targeted for August. These upgrades will ensure that the Reliance Sports Ground continues to be a vibrant and dynamic hub for sports and community gatherings on the Essequibo Coast.
