SVGCA honours three outstanding contributors

Three outstanding Vincentians, all of whom have contributed to different aspects of cricket development, were last Saturday night the toasts of honour of the St. Vincent and the Grenadines Cricket Association at its Second Awards Dinner at Government House.{{more}}

The three, Owen Cuffy, George Browne and Michael Findlay, were recognized at the ceremony.

But only Findlay was present, as Browne is unwell, and Cuffy died suddenly last July, two days before the previously set date of July 21.

Browne, a former umpire, officiated in regional cricket tournaments, and was a television umpire at the first and only test match played here in June 1997.

Browne, a former member of the defunct Somerset Cricket Club from the Sion Hill area, was represented by his grand daughter LaRon Browne, who accepted the award on his behalf.

Cuffy, a former long serving member of the SVG Cricket Association, was credited with the development of cricket in the north of the country. A mean swing bowler in his time, Cuffy was considered one of the best swing-bowlers this country has produced,

His award was received by his sister, Pearl Campbell.

In accepting his award, Findlay thanked all those who helped nurture him in his development to become one of the finest wicket keepers the region has seen.

Findlay, a former St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Windwards, Combined Islands and West Indies wicket keeper, went down memory lane, recalling some of his experiences in his travels.

Findlay is the current manager of the West Indies cricket team in South Africa for the first ever 20/20 World Cup.

Findlay is also a former chairman of selectors of the West Indies Cricket Board, and has served on the board’s cricket development committee.

In 2006, the local cricket association honoured Dr. Gideon Cordice, Lennox John and Frank Mason.

Last Saturday’s ceremony was also used as fundraiser towards the development of youth cricket in the country.

The ceremony was addressed by Governor General Sir Frederick Ballantyne, President of the Cricket Association Julian Jack and Minister of Tourism, Youth and Sports, Glen Beache. (RT)