The 2025 Hearts of Many (HOM) Aviation Cup kicks off tomorrow at the Barbados Football Association Technical Centre in Wildey, St Michael.
The tournament, which is organised in collaboration with the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) and the HOM aviation charity, will feature a mix of international and local teams who will compete in a round-robin stage comprising ten ten-minute matches. The top four teams will advance to the semi-finals, with the winners battling for the Aviation Cup title.
Defending champions of the BFA Premier League Ensure Max Protein Weymouth Wales will have a chance to add to their burgeoning trophy cabinet when they come up against the Barbados Defence Force (BDF), O2 Beach Club by Ocean Hotels, JetBlue, a combined Virgin Atlantic/Delta Airways squad, British Airways UK, and British Airways Barbados.
BFA President Randy Harris believes this event reflects the continued investment in local football infrastructure.
“Thanks to the FIFA Forward Programme, our pitch now meets FIFA Field Certification criteria, enabling us to host international matches and events such as these,” Harris said. “The BFA is dedicated to growing all facets of football in Barbados, including its expansion into sports tourism.”
HOM Aviation Cup organiser Kurt Morlese expressed his enthusiasm for bringing the event to Barbados, highlighting the alignment of his two passions: football and aviation.
While emphasising the importance of the BFA Technical Centre as the venue, Morlese said, “This event is a great combination of sports and entertainment and aligns perfectly with my passion for both football and aviation.”
He added, “We aim to use the HOM Aviation Cup to bring overseas visitors from all over the world to sunny Barbados each year, helping to boost local businesses and the economy while also providing the local footballing community with an exciting event to enjoy. Additionally, we will support local Barbadians in gaining aviation apprenticeships and qualifications.”
Cedric Lynch, BTMI’s Business Development Officer for the UK, also welcomed the initiative, noting that the tournament would help to showcase Barbados as a destination for sporting events.
“This event will continue to highlight Barbados’ facilities, infrastructure, and ability to host sporting activities at a variety of levels,” Lynch said. “It also underscores the faith our travel partners in the aviation industry have in the island and the diversity of our sports tourism offering.”
During the event, there will be performances by popular local artist Biggie Irie and a live DJ from the United Kingdom. Winners of the raffle draw will walk away with prizes such as a Segway, limited edition Nike trainers, a Nike tracksuit, and a meal for two at L’Azure Restaurant at the Crane Beach Resort. (JC)
