Thursday, 7 May 2009

2009 Annual BELCO Cup Plans Announced

Today Bermuda Electric Light Company Limited (BELCO) and the Bermuda Cricket Board (BCB) jointly announced plans for the 2009 BELCO Cup, which takes place May 16-17, with play starting at 11:00 AM each day.

The line-up for the Saturday semi-finals (admission FREE), putting the top four teams from the 2008 season against one another is: 

• At Somerset Cricket Club - Southampton Rangers vs Police Cricket Club
• At St. David's County Cricket Club - Cleveland County Cricket Club vs Young Men's Social Club

On Sunday, the winners compete in the final (admission $5.00 for adults, 18 or older) at St. David's County Cricket Club.  Fans will also be treated to entertainment during the half-hour, between-innings break, which starts at 2:30 PM.

Each year, BCB, BELCO and St. David's County Cricket Club team up to donate proceeds from the final to a charity.  'No Child Goes Without' has once again been selected as the 2009 recipient of all entry fees, plus proceeds from the sale of $10.00 children's T-shirts, and any additional donations that fans may wish to make.  The Bermuda Masters Cricket Team and BELCO have volunteered to work on the gates, while representatives from 'No Child Goes Without' will sell children's T-shirts.  'No Child Goes Without', founded by Ms Grejai Smith, provides free lunches and school supplies to needy students.

Andrew Parsons, BELCO Senior Vice President, Finance said, "It's gratifying to see how much the BELCO Cup has grown after only seven years of having the event.  After winning five times, it was only right to award Southampton Rangers the BELCO Cup last year.  We have a brand new cup for this year's winning team.  We are also pleased to once again support the worthy cause of 'No Child Goes Without', as we value tremendously their effort in helping to develop Bermuda's youth.  It is my hope that this year's BELCO Cup is just as enjoyable and successful as it has been the past six years."

Reginald Pearman, President of the Bermuda Cricket Board, stated, "The BELCO Cup continues to grow in popularity and is a major part of Bermuda's domestic season.  Last year the tournament had a record turnout at Lords, St. David's and I hope to see the same this year. The ICC awarded the BELCO Cup with the 'ICC Best Spirit of Cricket Initiative in 2008' which recognises events which best encapsulate the 'spirit of Cricket.' Once again the Board and BELCO are working together to raise money in support of the deserving cause, 'No Child Goes Without'. The President of the Umpire's Association, Mr. Walisford Manders has announced that the Umpire's will donate their fee to the charity. As per usual, the Board will donate the proceeds from the gate. I would like to take this time to thank all those involved in organising the BELCO Cup, ensuring it remains such a successful and worthwhile local event."

Fans are encouraged to come out to Somerset and St. David's to enjoy a great weekend of cricket at the BELCO Cup, and to listen to 'The Voice of Summer' Jim Woolridge's radio commentary on DeFontes Broadcasting 1450 AM Gold on May 16 and 17.