Dear Sir,

Thanks for allowing me the space to put forward my concerns about the annual Cup Match classic.

I am of the opinion that everyone living in Bermuda and those who have visited during the Cup Match holidays will agree that this is the holiday of all holidays. It's a time when we all come together, forget many of our day to day worries and enjoy the festive occasion.

The annual classic is an important part of Bermuda's history, 100 years plus, and I am sure all Bermuda will join me in congratulating St. George's and Somerset for getting together every year and seeing that this tradition continues.

However, both clubs must understand that they are the foundation of this Bermudian heritage and the decisions they make going forward must reflect the well being of the whole Bermudian community.

They must be reminded that persons or committees appointed by them must understand and be willing to preserve the history of the Cup Match.

They must also lead by example, by informing/teaching their players and teams that Cup Match is not only about winning, but first of all about representing your club and community to the best of your ability.

I would further like to mention that we are into the 21st century and this event has grown to the point where the financial cost is of great concern, so I will agree with the clubs and invite any sponsorship which will help bring the classic to a wider range of the public ? at the same time keeping in mind not to allow the spirit of the Cup Match classic to disappear.

I shall close by saying, should Somerset or St. George's believe it or not, they have been entrusted with a very important part of Bermuda's history. So I trust they understand the part they play in maintaining the history.

Once again, congratulations to both clubs and continue working together so that this holiday of holidays will go on for 100 years more.

Yours in sport,