Radhica De Silva
Senior Reporter
radhica.sookraj@guardian.co.tt
After four years of perseverance and six months of intense training, San Fernando Boys’ RC erupted in celebration at their school yesterday, hoisting their gleaming gold trophy high, having secured first place in the Junior Panorama Championship at the Queen’s Park Savannah on Sunday.
Led by their dedicated arranger, Lydia Seecharan, the boys moved in unison, their voices blending with the rhythm of their instruments as they passionately belted out Shadow’s iconic song and their winning tune, Dingolay.
Speaking to Guardian Media, Seecharan said the victory was especially sweet, as some of the players had only touched a steelpan for the very first time last July.
“They gave up their July/August holidays, their Christmas vacation and their afternoons to diligently practise, which paid off in the end,” Seecharan said.
She revealed that the team faced significant challenges along the way, including a heartbreaking setback just days before the finals when one of their young musicians had to undergo surgery.
Despite the emotional toll, the group pushed forward.
Seecharan said 2025 marked the fourth time San Fernando Boys’ RC had competed in the Junior Panorama competition, steadily climbing the ranks with each attempt. Their journey saw them place eighth, then fifth, and later third before finally seizing the coveted championship title.
Reflecting on the journey, she said, “Some of these boys had never played pan before, but they reached this level. Hard work creates opportunities. On stage, anything can happen. They were small, the youngest only six, and they learned to execute, play in time, and move as a unit. I tell them to play pan with their hearts through their hands, and it’s a message I want them to carry forward in life.”
She said the competition also deepened their understanding of local music culture.
“It teaches us who Shadow was and what he contributed to our culture. The boys now understand his music and his impact,” she said.
The young pan players expressed joy at their victory.
Ryan Sheppard said, “I feel proud.”
Jeremiah Jackson thanked Seecharan for guiding them through the months of training.
Darius Branker said, “It was a team effort, and I want to thank Miss Seecharan.”
Kaleb Peter said, “I am proud of what we achieved together.”
Vice principal Donna Solomon told Guardian Media the entire school shared in the celebration.
“Today we celebrated this victory after so many years of preparing for Panorama. Our boys and our city celebrated. Teachers acknowledged the players and thanked them for representing the school.
“This was the result of the dedication of teachers and our arranger. She prepared the boys with a training camp during the August vacation and introduced them to the winning theme. Paria invested in us, and we are grateful for the support.”
Paria representative Nerissa Feveck also congratulated the school.
“On behalf of the board, management, and employees, we extend our congratulations. We are proud of the championship they won at Junior Panorama,” she said.
St Margaret’s Boys’ Anglican placed second while Febeau Government Primary School finished third.