Keo Davis is the recipient of the first ever Theophilus Shallow Athletic Award.

The Marriaqua United Friendly Society (Bunpan) handed over the first disbursement of the award to the student of the St Vincent Grammar School on Thursday, August 11.

This award is to assist Davis with his educational expenses as well as his thriving athletic career, a release from Bunpan said.

It provides financial assistance in the amount of $1,400 annually for the next four years. This will assist the young man in the completion of his two remaining years at the St. Vincent Grammar School and two years at a tertiary institution.

This award was created in honour of former President of the Society Theophilus Shallow, who was an ardent sportsman.

During his more active years, Shallow was involved in cricket, netball and basketball. He also served as a referee for the Netball Association.

In academics, he successfully completed a master’s degree in economics. The most fitting tribute to Shallow is the award that was presented, in his name, to the young and talented Davis who has been excelling in track and field both locally and regionally.

Davis is the St. Vincent Grammar School 2022 intermediate champ as well as the 2022 Inter Secondary School intermediate champ.

He also inspired the citizens of St. Vincent and Grenadines with his performance at the 2022 Carifta games when he earned a bronze medal in the 100 m, and a silver medal in the 200 m.

Davis is a member of Bunpan and the Society recognized his success by featuring him on its 2022 Annual General Meeting booklet.

In his address, Vice President of the Society, Leroy Jackson challenged Davis to strive for the top position academically as well as in sports. He also urged him not only to represent the ideals of the Society, but also his community as well as St. Vincent and the Grenadines and to continue to make us all proud.

The award was proudly presented by Jennifer Shallow, a retired teacher and the widow of Theophilus Shallow. Coincidentally, Jennifer taught both Davis and his parents.

She expressed how deeply appreciative she was that an award was created in honour of her husband.

“Bunpan is pleased not only to continue providing a death benefit to the beneficiaries of our members but also for being able to provide resources and support to the community. We are grateful for the opportunity to invest in our young people, and to open doors for the next generation,” a release from the organization said.