Construction began about a month ago, according to George Oprecht, the coach of the former Young Achievers Gym, which the new ultra modern facility will replace.

Ministerial Adviser on Empowerment, Odinga Lumumba, was on site to inspect the work and the former World Boxing Association Welterweight champion turned up for a photo opportunity yesterday.

The official explained that work was delayed because there was a wait on the National Budget, then the rains stepped in preventing a start.

“Delay doesn’t mean there was a problem. Importantly, the foundation is casted. It should be smooth sailing from here,” Lumumba said.

When the facility is completed in six months time, then the promise made by the president on the historic night of February 17 will materialise fully.

President Jagdeo was in Albouystown and watched Lewis knock out James Page in round seven to give Guyana the country's first world title and the head of state immediately made the commitment.

Inspired by the historic success of Lewis, the gym and boulevard were renamed at a ceremony at the gym.

It was on May 19, last year, during the euphoria of Sixhead’s triumphant first visit home after giving Guyana the country’s first world title that the Young Achievers Gym was renamed after the hero.

Lewis returned home on May 17, last year, after he successfully defended the belt on April 28.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds received the plaque to be installed on the cornerstone when the gym is reconstructed into an ultra-modern sport facility to service all sportspersons.

At the same time, Mayor Hamilton Green announced that Independence Boulevard would be renamed the Andrew ‘Sixhead’ Lewis Boulevard.

However, no work has yet been promised to make the stretch a real boulevard - the necessary dignity in keeping with the elevation.

Seven months passed after the renaming ceremony for construction to be formally commissioned on the gym where the world famous boxer started his career.

On December 28, last year, President Jagdeo officially started the dismantling of the old Young Achievers Gym to make way for construction of the modern Andrew ‘Sixhead’ Lewis training facility in Albouystown.

Lumumba had disclosed that the two-storeyed facility would cost $16 243 185 and would house 20 athletes in training, with access to a laundry room and kitchen.

The facility will have an executive room and a modern boxing ring, along with seating accommodation for 100 spectators to mini tournaments.

There will also be outdoor training area for skipping and weightlifting, among other activities.

The construction was awarded to Contractor Alex Mahaica, who said the building would be completed in six months.