On Friday 15th March, an impressive ceremony, effectively launched the much anticipated Bank of Nevis, Inter high Schools championship on Nevis, which was held over the weekend.
It all started with an impressive march through Main Street, Charlestown by the three competing schools: Charlestown Secondary; Gingerland Secondary and Nevis International Secondary, complete with their colourfully attired cheer leaders.
The invocation was done by Mr. Lucien York of the Sports Department and the proceedings were ably chaired by Mr. Vijay Harinarine, of the Sports Department and included speeches from several representatives of the various entities involved in hosting the event.
Mr. Pheon Jones, Marketing officer at the main sponsor of the event, The Bank of Nevis, indicated that the Bank was happy to be involved in assisting the youths in such a significant way and pointed out that the sponsorship amount, was to the tune of $20,000.00.
Minister of Sports, Hon. Troy Liburd, praised the Bank of Nevis and the collaborative efforts of the ministries and Departments of Education and Sports, for ensuring that the event was made possible.
He stated that Sports is an integral part of the education system and urged the student athletes to make the most of the brand new Mondo track facility, which he opined is ‘second to none’ in the Caribbean.
He urged the students to make the most of the scholarship opportunities available through Athletics.
Minister of Sports, Hon. Eric Evelyn, lamented the fact that there were numerous cases of non-communicable diseases within the youth population and indicated that it was partly due to inactivity on their part.
He opined that the Mondo track was ‘second to none in the world’ and urged the student athletes to take care of it.
Miss Ercia Blake then introduced the two patrons, Miss Tanika Liburd and Mr. Timothy Caines 111. She read their very impressive athletic profiles.
Senior Youth Officer, Kelvin Bramble, delivered the vote of thanks.
The afternoon concluded with performances by the cheer leaders of the three schools-much to the delight of the huge crowd present.