Whats Happening: The Dream Cup 2013

I’m sure by now each and every one of you have heard what is coming to Barbados at the end of the month, Nov 28^th – Dec 1^st to be exact; The Dream Cup. Yes, tennis stars such as Andy Murray, Juan Martin Del Potro, Richard Gasquet and Nicolas Almagro are joining us on our beautiful rock to compete, no biggie at all (yea right).Loop Barbados was lucky enough to catch up and ace an interview with the enthusiastic and very committed Dream Cup team to find out for you some of the action behind the scenes of this event we are overly excited about.

Why Barbados?

The team selected Barbados for a number reasons, the first of course being the fact that it’s a dreamy exotic paradise with welcoming people and a sound political, and economical environment. That combined with its strong heritage of tennis and its ease of accessibility from major cities such as Miami, London and Toronto, produces a tennis destination that far surpasses most places in the world!

How do you think this will benefit our island?

The team believes there are immense benefits and opportunities directly associated with The Dream Cup. Not only will it bring both travelers and locals together but also the event will aid in the establishment of Barbados in the sports tourism realm- where is should be.  In addition, the economic stimulation, exposure to a world wide audience through LIVE coverage via ESPN International, endorsements from some of the top tennis athletes and stars are all sure benefits that would not have been present without the Dream Cup. However, according to Kodi Lewis, founder of the Dream Cup, the benefits run a lot deeper than previously stated. Through their charitable aspect, they are aiding our young athletes and ALL young Barbadian’s growing up to live healthy lives and follow their DREAMS as anything is possible. Big things can come from a simple, small idea or island!

What is the inspiration behind starting the Dream Cup?

The inspiration behind the Dream Cup is simple, a promise and a dream! Kodi commenced “Tennis pun de Rock”; Dream Cups’ predecessor, to raise funds for his brother’s (Haydn Lewis) dream to be one of the best tennis players in the world and compete at the highest level and he promised he would do what he could to help. If that meant flying to LA to meet with Serena Williams (2011 player) in flesh, so be it. Additionally, Luis Fuentis one of Barbados’ top tennis coaches and one of the Dream Cups’ directors inspiration was to recreate the Grand Slam of the 80’s, but with a much more alluring prize and exotic destination.  He too wants to see his daughter gain a fair chance at achieving her dreams of becoming a professional tennis player.

What is the most exciting aspect about planning and executing The Dream Cup?

There are variety of aspects about the Dream Cup which intrigue the members, however, the two which stood out the most were the vast possibilities of the Dream Cup in the future and the diversity of people from all walks of life which the members have had the opportunity to not only come in contact but also build relationships with.

What is the most challenging aspect of planning and executing The Dream Cup?

It was agreed amongst the team that one of the most challenging aspects would be without a doubt the LIVE coverage by ESPN.  The implementation and the logistics of the game have to be perfect as there is absolutely no room for error. Additionally, executing the ‘fine details’ of the event while disseminating the ‘entire vision’ of what you want to achieve.

What is there to look forward to in the future?

There are endless possibilities and plans that are already in the works for The Dream Cup, including a master’s element and regional invitational tournament to music concert.  As Kodi states, The Dream Cup is only limited by our dreams and we would have to completely agree.

There is no doubt in our minds the The Dream Cup will continue to grow and be one of the most sought out events in the Caribbean. There is nothing that quite beats the results of passion, commitment and hard work – and that is exactly how we would describe the team over at The Dream Cup! They are living proof that anything we dream is possible and can come true, one we have the courage and determination to pursue.