PHILIPSBURG--NAGICO Insurances in collaboration with the Velo Club de Grand Case (VCG) presented the first annual Gamali Benjamin Award to Alban Clerc, one of the youngest riders who participated in the recently held NAGICO to NAGICO (N2N) Cycling Race.
The award, named after the late officer Benjamin, represents courage and is given to the cyclist who despite not winning the race was considered the most dynamic rider, NAGICO said in a press release on Tuesday.
“We at NAGICO are no doubt elated to be part of this moment,” NAGICO Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dwayne Elgin said to a small group gathered at the company’s Head Office for the presentation. “This is a sentimental award for us because it represents one of our police officers whom we were very proud of. One who died protecting our community and one who was always part of our N2N cycling race from the very first year we started. I want to congratulate Alban on winning this prestigious award and hope to see his name on the Tour de France someday.”
Velo Club President St. Elmo “Mote” said Clerc is a promising cyclist. “This young guy from the very first time he started riding showed that he has talent and that he is a serious rider. At just 16 years old, he not only participated in the N2N Races, but also represented the island in the Caribbean Championship where he rode 16 kilometres at 41 mph and won the title of Junior Champion in that race. He performed extremely well in the race and really deserved this award.”
Police spokesperson Chief Inspector Ricardo Henson, who helped to present the award, said it is a very prestigious award which means a lot. “Officer Gamali was an icon in the organisation and community. He was responsible and was a good example to all of us. This award should mean something to you because you are carrying an entire country on your shoulders and I want to congratulate you at this time on your accomplishment.”
