Ambassador status conferred on Lara
Guyana Chronicle
April 21, 2004
Massive street celebrations followed a magnificent reception at Piarco International Airport for a tired-looking Lara, who reclaimed the world record with his unbeaten quadruple century in the 4th Cable & Wireless Test against England at Antigua Recreation Ground (ARG) last week Monday.
His role as sporting ambassador will give him a diplomatic passport and allow him to represent his country on international sporting matters.
Lara was greeted at the airport by thousands of fans, including the Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Patrick Manning.
"His achievements are not just for Trinidad and Tobago, but for the entire region," Manning said.
The star batsman emerged from Piarco’s VIP Lounge at around 2.00 pm, to a thunderous welcome from supporters who had gathered in the airport’s atrium to pay him tribute from as early as midday.
Lara was accompanied by his daughter, Sydney.
His super batting effort at the ARG, characterised by great determination and concentration, erased the previous mark of 380 by Australian Matthew Hayden as he copped his second world Test record.
Hayden’s knock had bettered the 375 that Lara scored 10 years ago, also at the ARG against England.
Manning also announced that Lara is being given TT$400 000 (US$63 829) worth of free flights by Trinidad's national airline BWIA.
“No amount of accolades can truly say how we really feel about Lara.
“We want to use his achievements to inspire the youths of the nation towards greater things,” Manning said.