 |
| Nevis cricketing icon, Mr. Runarko Morton (3 from left) stands with Ministers Jean Harris and Michael Perkins on his right, while Premier Vance Amory and Jr Min of Sports, Laughton Brandy on his left. |
Charlestown Nevis (April 19, 2006) Nevis' cricketing icon, Mr. Runarko Morton returned to a festive setting at the Vance W Amory International Airport on Tuesday April 18, as the Nevis Island Administration, family and well-wishers welcomed him back to his homeland as their newest island hero.
Under the umbrella of the Ministry of Youth & Sports, a toasting ceremony was held at the VIP Lounge in his honour, as the most recent Nevisian to be selected on the West Indies Cricket Team and for his latest achievements during recently concluded tour to New Zealand.
His outstanding performance, won him a piece of the rock as Premier, the Hon Mr. Vance Amory presented him with the token of appreciation on behalf of the government and people of Nevis.
The Nevisian leader, who shared in the toasting of Runarko's achievement said, "It is a great honour for me to raise a toast to our newest Nevisian hero and Ambassador, Mr. Runarko Morton."
He called on the gathering to recognise those past Nevisians (who made the West Indies team) who have paved the way for Mr. Morton, noting that the Administration was always supportive of cricket on the island as far as the resources could take it.
"A model of choice for our young people, a story of triumph through adversity," said Junior Minister of Sports, the Hon Mr.
 |
| Premier Vance Amory sharing a moment of joy to welcome home Mr. Morton |
Laughton Brandy as he expressed his appreciation to Mr. Morton. "This is indeed a momentous occasion for Nevis because little Nevis has done it again.
"We have produced another Test Cricketer, Runarko, being the 5th test cricketer and 6th one day cricketer to represent the West Indies team. When I consider that St. Vincent in its history has only produce 4, Grenada manage 2, Dominica 3, St. Kitts and St. Lucia have not yet move off the mark, I say hats off to Nevis. I'm indeed proud of my little island Nevis," said the Junior Minister of Sports.
Mr. Morton, known to many as "Ronnie" was born on July 22, 1978 and according to the Chairman, Mr. Gary Pemberton, "grew up in an area where breadfruit form a major part of his diet. No wonder empires and bowlers are fearful of his powerful straight drive."
"He has defied all odds and has proven that even thou he is from the tiny island of Nevis as so often referred to, he demonstrated that his strength and character are his greatest assets. It is no coincidence that you top the batting averages in the recently concluded test and one day series," said Mr. Pemberton.
Runarko's Test series has an average of 70 while his One-Day International series has an average of 57.25. His overall Test average from just four matches is 32.16 with 70 not out in the final test in the recently concluded series against New Zealand. He also have an average of 38.90 after 12 One-Day Internationals matches scoring an all time high of 110 not out.
President of the Nevis Cricket Association, Mr. Oscar Walters, who also gave a toast to Mr. Morton said, " Runarko has gone through the test of time both on the field and off the field and his performance and success have proved to us and the young sportsmen and sportswomen, that dedication, discipline and commitment brings success."
An elated Morton in respond to the accolades he received expressed gratitude on his own behalf and that of his family and relatives. He was accompanied by his wife and his daughter.
The ceremony was also graced with the presence of Ministers of Government and other government officials, cricket enthusiasts as well as one of his physicians, Dr. Banks. Father Ernest Flemming bestowed the blessing on the occasion while Mr. Leroy Parris not only rendered the Nation Anthem on his steel pan but entertained the gathering.
