In a thrilling finale held at the St. Thomas Sports Dome, Kalamasserry, Ernakulam on July 7, 2024, Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort by Dr Polly Mathew emerged victorious in the 17th edition of the Shoot The Rain monsoon football tournament. Organized by the Tourism Professional Club Kochi (TPC), the event showcased intense competition among 26 teams representing prominent hotels and resorts across Kerala.
The final match saw Somatheeram by Dr Polly Mathew and TPC Kochi battling to a deadlock, with neither team scoring during regulation time. The suspense reached its peak during the penalty shootout, where Somatheeram by Dr Polly Mathew secured a 4-3 victory, clinching the prestigious Dominic Joseph Memorial Rolling Trophy.
Last year’s champions Gokulam Park Kochi secured a decisive win over Gokulam Grand Kumarakom in the clash for third place.
Reflecting on the triumphs and challenges of Shoot The Rain 2024, Mr. Vinesh Vidya, President of TPC, fondly recalls a poignant moment that captured the essence of the tournament’s spirit. “My favourite moment of the tournament was when Ouseph’s sister ran onto the field to embrace her brother after he saved the crucial penalty, securing Somatheeram’s victory,” Vinesh Vidya shares with a heartfelt smile.
The decision to host this year’s tournament at a private turf initially raised concerns, but Mrs. Remya Sreejith, Secretary of TPC, expresses pride in overcoming those apprehensions. “We had our reservations about staging the tournament at a private venue, but I am pleased to say that we managed to execute it smoothly, without any major hitches,” Ramya reflects, highlighting the collective effort that ensured the event’s success.
For Shiekh Ismail, General Convenor of the tournament, Shoot The Rain represents more than just a competition—it’s a vibrant celebration within Kerala’s hospitality and tourism sectors. “STR is akin to a festival for our industry,” Ismail explains. “It provides an ideal platform for networking and camaraderie among industry members, fostering connections beyond the field.”
The awards ceremony, graced by distinguished personalities including Mr. Hibi Eaden MP and former football legend Mr. C. C. Jacob, underscored the event’s significance in Kerala’s sporting calendar. Mr Jose Pradeep, President of KTM Society, Mr Ani Haneef of MKTA, Mr Jolly James of MDM Mr. Manoj Vijayan of KTTC, Mr. Vishnu Soman of TFF, Mr Anwar Sadiq of Guide’s Association, Mr Biju George, Director of International Marketing at Somatheeram Ayurveda Group, and Mr Binoy Nair, CEO of TPC was present during the prize distribution.
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