Reuben J. A. Stoby, along with his daughter Robyn, is congratulated by NAGICO staff for being named the Virgin Island’s Road Racing Athlete of the Year consecutively. Photo: Provided

Reuben J. A. Stoby is the reigning 2-mile, 5K and 10K champion of the VI. Photo: Dean ‘The Sportsman’ Greenaway/File

The reigning 2-mile, 5K and 10K champion of the VI aspires to compete in the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo and had another tremendous season on the roads. This is the second consecutive year that Reuben has copped the award.

Reuben was presented with his awards, including the 2016 Cross Country Champion accolade, when the BVI Athletics Association (BVIAA) held its Fundraising Gala and Awards Ceremony at The Moorings Mariner Inn on December 29, 2016.

“I am once again thrilled to be recognised as the Athlete of the Year. It was another successful year despite a stronger competition. However, I am even more excited about 2017 as I now have a coach and continue to see improvements,” Reuben said.

NAGICO also sponsored Reuben as he competed in the Antigua Half Marathon in May, 2016 where he placed 5^th. He also made his debut on the track in July 2016 when he competed in the 5000m at the OECS Track & Field Championships in the VI, placing sixth.

"The support from NAGICO was deeply appreciated as it gave me motivation to work harder, not just to win my races here, but to also compete successfully on a regional level. It really is a great feeling knowing that NAGICO shares my passion for success and is willing to see me achieve by offering support,” Reuben stated.

At the start of 2016, NAGICO Insurance and Reuben agreed to continue the rewarding partnership. NAGICO has been very supportive of the long-distance runner with staff attending a few of the races during the past year to provide encouragement and morale support.

“We are very proud of Reuben’s accomplishments because he has proven that with perseverance, dedication and the right support one can achieve their goals. Similarly, NAGICO provides quality service and is resolute in ensuring that we are fast, fair and always there,” said Managing Director, Shan Mohamed.

Mohamed continued, “Reuben is an inspiration to so many young people and NAGICO will continue to support Reuben as he works toward his goal of competing at the 2020 Olympics. In 2016, we supported various sporting groups and individuals. The community can expect NAGICO to continue similar contributions in 2017 and beyond.”

NAGICO continues to demonstrate good corporate responsibility through contributions to cricket, squash, tennis, music, among others.

The company has been a long-time partner of the community groups, including the Rotary Clubs of the VI, Family Support Network, BVI Cancer Society, BVI Red Cross, the BVI HIV/AIDS Foundation and has also adopted the Isabella Morris Primary School as part of its wider support for education in the Virgin Islands.