Rédaction Africa Links 24 with nation.sc
Published on 2024-03-03 14:24:39
Keddy Agnes and Felicity Passon have once again triumphed as Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year 2023. This marks their second time receiving this prestigious title, having previously been crowned in 2018 and 2019. The official crowning ceremony took place at the Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino, where they were represented by their mother.
The ceremony, last held in 2019, made its return after a hiatus due to the impact of Covid-19 on sports activities. President Wavel Ramkalawan and First Lady Linda Ramkalawan, along with other dignitaries, graced the event. The presence of high-ranking officials, parents, relatives, and friends added to the grandeur of the occasion.
In the male category, judoka Nantenaina Finesse secured the runner-up position, while volleyball player Angelique Adeline claimed second place among the female athletes. Swimmer Simon Bachmann and judoka Dominic Dugasse took third and fourth place respectively in the male category. In the women’s category, volleyball player Maya Biong and karateka Mastura Shah-Faure occupied the third and fourth spots.
The youth category saw young talents like Praslinois windsurfer Jules Kandasamy and swimmer Angelina Smythe emerge victorious. In the boys’ group, Northern Tang Soo Do Seychelles karatekas Jishin Jins and Kyan Francourt secured the second and third positions. For the girls, badminton players Aurelie Jean-Louis and Liana Bedier finished in second and third place.
A public choice award was introduced for the first time, with long-distance runner Ivan Moïse capturing the hearts of the audience. The best sports official for 2023 title went to football referee Hansley Petrousse, followed by volleyball referee Michael Ah-Kong and boxing referee John Figaro. Coach of the year was awarded to boxing coach Rival Payet, outshining volleyball coach Julien Onezime and karate instructor James Faure.
Aside from athletes, coaches, and officials, three individuals – Rolly Baker, Jerina Bonne, and Allan Julie – were honored for their contributions to local sports. Minister for Youth, Sports, and Family, Marie-Celine Zialor, emphasized the importance of athletes being role models and spreading positive values in the community.
Minister Zialor highlighted the challenges faced in organizing the event, attributing the delay to the lack of competitions and the desire to ensure a meaningful ceremony. She expressed gratitude to the athletes, families, coaches, officials, and the government for their unwavering support and commitment to sports development in the country.
The Sports Awards of the Year 2023 not only recognized excellence in sports but also celebrated the dedication and hard work of individuals who have contributed to the growth and success of Seychellois athletes. The event served as a platform to honor achievements, inspire future generations, and reinforce the values of sportsmanship and camaraderie within the community.
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