The Hikers Hockey Club successfully hosted the 3rd edition of the Demerara Mutual Mixed 7-A Festival at the Everest Cricket Club Ground, Eve Leary, amid the scorching sun. Nine teams, proudly sponsored by prominent entities in corporate Guyana — Germans Restaurant, INET Communications Inc., Jai Signs and Auto Designs, Cole’s Screen Printers, Dyrock Construction, Muse Sports Bar, GiftBox, Sensodyne, and Brand It Apparel Company—engaged in fierce competition.
The teams were divided into two groups, engaging in a round-robin format. Jai Signs, the victor of Group A, faced off against Sensodyne, the winner of Group B, with Jai Signs securing a direct entry into the finals. GiftBox emerged as the finalist after overcoming two other intense semi-final matches. In the quarterfinals, Germans and Brandit battled fiercely, resulting in a 2-1 victory for Germans. Muse also challenged GiftBox in the semi-finals but fell short.
The finals were a spectacle, captivating fans who left their seats to get a closer look at the game. The score stood at nil at half-time, but the second half brought excitement. In the 14th minute, Jabez Walters breached GiftBox’s defence, followed by Randy Hope replicating the feat in the 17th minute. Jai Signs dominated, and although GiftBox fought valiantly, they could not catch up.
Lennox Carrol from Team GiftBox received the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, while the Captain of Team Jai Signs, Kareem McKenzie, was honoured as the Best Keeper/Defender. The awards were generously sponsored by Mother’s Kitchen, C Mobile, LeZo Logistics, and Guinness. Team GiftBox by Gigi was awarded silver medals and a case of Guinness. Jai Signs, securing their victory for the second time, celebrated by hoisting the trophy, receiving $100,000 in cash, medals, and a case of cold Guinness.
The Hikers Hockey Club expressed gratitude to corporate Guyana for their interest and support, with some already committing to support next year. Special thanks were extended to staunch sponsors Ramesh Trophy Stall, HJ Radio and Guinness. The Guyana Hockey Board and Everest Cricket Club received acknowledgement for their invaluable support and appreciation for the families and friends who contributed to the jubilant atmosphere.
