SIXTEEN softball cricket teams will compete for the top prize of $100 000) tomorrow at the Golden Fleece beach on the Essequibo Coast.

Beer giant STAG Beer is hosting the event as part of Independence celebrations in the county. According to one of the organisers, each team must purchase one case of STAG Beer to qualify, with the first 16 teams gaining entry.

Softball beach cricket is very popular and already among the top teams, who have signalled their intentions to participate, are Affiance, Adventure, Richmond Youths, Walton Hall, Reliance, Suddie, Golden Fleece and Charity.

The fun-filled day of sports will also see after-party celebrations, as the winners along with patrons and fans will enjoy lots of added incentives from the company.

A large turnout is expected as local heroes, including Patrick Ruplall, Ramesh Narine, Latchman Rohit, Vishwanauth Lall and Shivanandan Mandolall, are all expected to represent their respective teams.

The 5-a-side tournament will commence at 10:00hrs and all teams are invited to be on time.

The popular site is one of the many tourist attractions on the Essequibo Coast. It is known for its vast landscape of sand where in as much as 15 matches can be played simultaneously.

The organisers are appealing to the sporting public to support the event in a grand way.