Guyana ready for a high-speed weekend as GT Challenge takes centre stage
As the engines roar and the excitement builds, Guyana is set to welcome regional and international racers for the highly anticipated GT Challenge de Las Américas, scheduled for July 11 and 12 at the South Dakota Circuit.
The event is expected to deliver thrilling competition while showcasing Guyana’s growing potential as a destination for major sporting events.
Ahead of the championship, the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Thursday spoke with some of the drivers who will take to the track, including Guyanese racers Kristian Jeffrey and Mark Vieira, as well as international competitor Ricardo Vera from Puerto Rico.
Jeffrey, who will be competing on home soil, said preparation and adapting to the circuit will be key factors as drivers battle for top honours.
“As a driver, it’s about being prepared, which I have been. I put in a lot of work for this. It’s just about driving the car and making these things happen,” Jeffrey said.
The Guyanese racer said he is confident in his experience and is looking forward to putting on an exciting display for motorsport fans.
Jeffrey also acknowledged the role of investment in advancing motorsport in Guyana, noting the significant transformation of the South Dakota Circuit.
“Without the government, this would never have been happening. The One Guyana vision is coming to life. You can see the whole facility and the structures changed in the span of two to three months,” he said.
Veteran Guyanese racer Mark Vieira said representing his country at the international event is a proud achievement and praised the development taking place within the sport.
“I think it’s a great honour to be representing Guyana. We’re here this year under One Guyana, and to be out here representing Guyana is a very proud moment for me,” Vieira said.
Vieira highlighted that the improvements at the facility are part of a wider effort to attract visitors and create new opportunities through sports tourism.
“This is just a catalyst to get us forward. We want to attract people to come to Guyana to see how amazing and diverse we are,” he said.
Meanwhile, Puerto Rican driver Ricardo Vera expressed confidence ahead of the competition, noting that the presence of racers from several countries will make for a highly competitive event.
“I am getting ready for the big event. It’s going to be a good race because we have different drivers from five different countries and the competition will be at a high level,” Vera said.
Vera, who has been competing in motorsport for more than 10 years, said he is looking forward to representing Puerto Rico and competing for victory.
The GT Challenge de Las Américas is expected to attract motorsport enthusiasts from Guyana and the wider region, further cementing the country’s growing reputation as a host for international sporting events.
