Date: 08/07/2006

For the first time in our history, our nation will be celebrating with supreme grandeur, the arrival of our Chinese brothers and sisters on our soil. More so, Guardian Holdings Limited would be saluting their immense contribution to our nation’s development through its sponsorship of one of the prime events of this Chinese celebration, Dragon Boat Racing on October 12th 2006.

Legend has it that the traditional dragon boat races originated in Southern Central China, along symbolic rivers such as Chang Jiang, also known as Yangtze. Such races were held in commemoration of the patriotic Chinese poet, Qu Yuan. Now, 2,500 years later, in Trinidad and Tobago, our Chinese descendants are mirroring this ritual. Proudly participating in this race is the Guardian Holdings Limited Family. We are indeed honoured to be among the many who would be taking part on this historical occasion.

For the weeks leading up to the race, our team would be immersing itself in an ongoing, rigorous training programme. Like the mighty warriors who have taken part in these races centuries ago, our team has adopted a forceful style, in the hope of doing our best on the day. Our helmsman is in the process of mastering the art of his rowing position, the drummer working on his rhythm and soon enough, our team would work their hardest at grasping the rowing techniques. The characteristics of great dragon boat rowers, to which our team is aspiring, include synchronization while moving to the beat of the drum and strength, two skills which can only be conquered by consistent practicing. Not only have training sessions been put into place, but also our team is intent on looking the part of true warriors. In keeping with the colour of the fire which is characteristic of the fire-breathing dragon, the team will be wearing blazing orange vests and orange aqua shoes on the day of the event.

Although we have placed our focus on the upcoming competition, the essential purpose of the day would never escape our minds. Above all things, it is the amity and fellowship that counts. GHL management has looked beyond ethnicity and social backgrounds, to embrace a celebration of the Chinese among us. How many nations can truly boast of such unity?

Paddles up everyone! October 12th promises to be a day of intense competition, a day of true grit, but most importantly - of spirited camaraderie. The Guardian Holdings Team plans on being a powerful current with which to compete.