In Apatou, the Academic Cross brings together nearly 300 students from Guyana

It is a sporting and friendly event. The highly anticipated Academic Cross was held in Apatou this Wednesday, December 11.

Nearly 300 students came from all over Guyana to participate in the championship organized by the UNSS Guyana. They positioned themselves on the different starting lines. Several timed races were organized this morning, according to age categories.

“The objective is sporting competition between schools, but also and above all cohesion”, explains Riquel Bruno, technical advisor and director UNSS Guyana. Sixteen schools are represented. In each race, everyone dreams of winning the medal.

“It is important for young people to share these values ​​of surpassing oneself, perseverance, discipline and respect,” declared Philippe Dulbecco, the rector of Guyana, who kicked off the last Cross race.

This Academic Cross is an institution and the young people arrived in Apatou the day before. “This event requires significant logistics, especially since it is hot,” souligne Riquel Bruno.

The students come from the river communities, from the West, but also from Cayenne. “They have stayed together since the day before, we visited the town, 80% of them don’t know Apatou, raconte Riquel Bruno. They don't just come for a race, they also come to visit and share a moment of cohesion.”

On the field, the course of the races is difficult, and the students encourage each other. Between applause and shouts, the fervor is there.

At a time when it is often a question of “violence between schools, this sporting event is important, underlines Riquel Bruno, technical advisor and director UNSS Guyana. We don't just train champions, but also citizens.”

Everyone left with their medals and the appointment has already been made for next year. The next Academic Cross could be held at Sinnamary.