Morton Honored with Unexpected Award

On a sun-drenched Sunday, April 27th, 2025, the second annual A-1 Farms 5-Star Relay Championship was in full swing, the air thick with the electric energy of athletic competition. Amidst the cheers and the thrum of excitement, an unexpected event unfolded, one that transcended the usual drama of the track and field. The focus shifted from the athletes poised on the starting blocks to a familiar figure on the sidelines – Curtis Morton, a long-serving sportscaster whose voice had become synonymous with Nevisian sports for over three decades. In a moment of unprecedented recognition, Morton was called forward, not to record the feats of others, but to be celebrated himself.

The crowd, already buzzing with the thrill of the races, erupted in enthusiastic applause as Morton, clearly surprised, made his way towards the center of the action. The occasion was the presentation of a special award, a testament to Morton’s unwavering dedication and outstanding contribution to sports coverage spanning an impressive 35 years. Mackie and Fayola Tross, the husband-and-wife team behind A-1 Farms and the driving force behind the relay championship, stepped forward to bestow the honor upon the deserving recipient. In their hands, they held a majestic plaque, its inscription a silent tribute to Morton’s journalistic prowess, and an envelope containing a check for an undisclosed sum, a tangible token of appreciation for his tireless efforts.

Tross, addressing the gathered crowd, highlighted Morton’s comprehensive coverage of Nevisian sports since 1989. He emphasized the sportscaster’s omnipresence, a constant voice narrating the triumphs and defeats, the heartbreaks and the victories, of athletes across a spectrum of disciplines. From the crack of the cricket bat to the swish of the basketball net, from the thunder of hooves on the racetrack to the splash of swimmers in the pool, Morton’s commentary had woven itself into the fabric of Nevisian sporting history, ensuring that every significant moment was captured and preserved for posterity. It was this remarkable dedication, this unwavering commitment to chronicling the island’s athletic endeavors, that the Trosses sought to acknowledge and celebrate.

The crowd, warmed by the genuine appreciation radiating from the Trosses and captivated by the unexpected turn of events, responded with resounding cheers and shouts of “Well deserved!” Their enthusiastic approval underscored the deep respect and affection held for Morton within the community. He was more than just a commentator; he was a storyteller, a historian, a voice that had brought countless sporting moments to life for generations of Nevisians. His dedication had not gone unnoticed, and the collective affirmation of the crowd served as a powerful testament to the impact he had made.

Morton, visibly touched by the outpouring of appreciation, accepted the award with a mixture of humility and gratitude. Caught completely off guard by the surprise presentation, he playfully questioned the Trosses, asking if they intended to make him cry in public. Beneath the lighthearted banter, however, lay a deep sense of appreciation for the unexpected recognition. He acknowledged the honor bestowed upon him, expressing his sincere gratitude for their thoughtful gesture. In a few heartfelt words, he encapsulated the driving force behind his decades-long career: the sheer joy of doing what he loved and the profound satisfaction of bringing happiness to others.

His words resonated with the audience, revealing the genuine passion that fueled his work. “I enjoy doing what I do,” he stated simply, “I love to make people happy, and when they show me that they appreciate my efforts, it only serves to motivate me further.” This heartfelt sentiment encapsulated the essence of his dedication. The award was not just recognition of past achievements; it was a catalyst, a source of renewed inspiration to continue chronicling the sporting stories of Nevis for years to come. The unexpected accolade, presented amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the A-1 Farms 5-Star Relay Championship, became a defining moment, not just in Morton’s career, but in the annals of Nevisian sports journalism. It served as a reminder of the power of dedication, the impact of a passionate voice, and the importance of acknowledging those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to bring the thrill of competition to life.