During the launching of the BWIA/CAC 2004 Link, Area Manager Carlton Defour congratulated the Guyana Bodybuilding & Fitness Federation (GABBFF) for hosting the championships, stating the airline was impressed with the professional and comprehensive presentation that the GABBFF attracted the sponsorship with.

BWIA will be offering concessionary fares to all participants of CAC 2004 and assistance to the GABBFF for the passing over of the flag in the Bahamas, later this year.

“This is an enormously prestigious occasion for Guyana,” Defour declared.

Defour said it was an opportunity to show off Guyana as the Caribbean’s unique tourist attraction.

Minister of Tourism, Manzoor Nadir said: “Sport tourism is a big activity.”

The minister foresees that 20 per cent of new arrivals will be for the championships, with the way it is being promoted by the GABBFF.

“You are promoting the brand we are trying to push - nature, adventure and eco-tourism for which Guyana will be known,” Nadir said.

Coordinator Donald Sinclair asserted that CAC 2004 would enhance sports and tourism.

“We are in uncharted waters and there will be lessons for sport administrators,” Sinclair said, adding that bodybuilders would have exposure to top class bodybuilding and fitness, while producing revenue for the local governing body.

With over 300 participants from some 38 countries, there will be business for hotels, restaurants, stores, taxis and pharmaceuticals, impacting on the tourism aspect of the event with lessons for visitor management.

“Many participants are in top positions in other profession,” Sinclair said.

International sport television ESPN will also offer a window on Guyana, leading up to the championships, according to Sinclair.

“International sport is not just sport; tourism aspect is always attached,” Sinclair pointed out.

The GABBFF has a carefully planned programme to promote the venture this year, kicking off in earnest with its presence at the Guyana Independence Festival in Toronto, Canada, May 17-18, where it will have a booth and its bodybuilders will make guest appearances at the shows.

Then in September, the championship flag will be passed on to Guyana in the Bahamas, where the GABBFF will also be promoting the event.

GABBFF president Yale Holder disclosed that the CAC Committee had expanded, with committees to deal with accommodation, logistics & security, venue & contestants and local promotion.

Committee Member Jay Small disclosed that signs would be posted at BWIA check in and in the departure lounge at Timehri this year, and at the arrival area next year. There will also be posters in participating hotels.