By Jack Austin Warner PhD
Over the years, the game of All Fours has evolved from a beloved pastime into a full-fledged cultural phenomenon in Trinidad and Tobago. What was once played casually on blocks, in rum shops, and under galvanised sheds has transformed into a structured competitive circuit, boasting a year-round calendar of tournaments that attracts players and spectators from every corner of the country. From January straight through to December, the All Fours community remains active, vibrant, and deeply rooted in the social fabric of the nation.
Yet, amidst this crowded and increasingly competitive landscape, one tournament has distinguished itself above all others: the BORO CUP. In terms of organisation, innovation, and sheer spectacle, it has set a benchmark that others can only attempt to follow.
The BORO CUP is not merely a card tournament; it is an event, an experience, and, increasingly, a symbol of what local sporting culture can achieve when vision meets execution.
This year’s edition, held at the Centre of Excellence, reinforced that reputation in emphatic fashion. Featuring a massive 56-team draw, the tournament unfolded over two days—Saturday, April 25, and Sunday, April 26—with a level of precision and professionalism rarely seen in local competitions. From registration to match scheduling, from player amenities to crowd management, every detail was meticulously handled.
What truly set the BORO CUP apart, however, was its commitment to innovation and inclusivity. The introduction of cabanas provided a comfortable, premium viewing experience for patrons, elevating the atmosphere beyond that of a typical tournament. The debut of the White Oak Chants Series added a new dimension to the event, with Shootaz emerging as champions.
Families were also thoughtfully accommodated through the creation of a dedicated playpen area, complete with bouncy castles and children’s games—an initiative that broadened the event’s appeal and made it a genuine family affair. In doing so, the organisers demonstrated a clear understanding that the future of All Fours lies not only in competition, but in community engagement.
The stakes were equally impressive. The trophies on offer were widely regarded as the finest ever contested in any All Fours tournament in the country—symbols not just of victory, but of prestige. Complementing these were championship medals, rings, and signature hats awarded to the winners, further elevating the honour of victory.
The tournament also featured substantial cash prizes, bringing the total prize pool to over $200,000. All winnings were distributed promptly at the conclusion of the event. In an environment where delays and disputes can sometimes overshadow achievement, this efficiency spoke volumes about the integrity and professionalism of the organisers.
From the very outset, it was clear that this was no ordinary tournament. The opening ceremony on Saturday set a tone of pride and cultural resonance, as the national anthem was performed on the steelpan from an elevated stage at the Centre of Bougainvillea Hall.
It was a moment that fused tradition with celebration, reminding all in attendance that All Fours, while competitive, remains deeply intertwined with national identity.
That same stage would later serve as the battleground for the tournament’s climactic final, drawing intense focus and excitement from the crowd. Yet even amid the high-level competition and seasoned players, the most remarkable story of the tournament came from an unexpected source.
In what can only be described as a defining moment for the sport, 15-year-old Kyla Rampersad of Felicity, Chaguanas, emerged as the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. A pupil of Chaguanas South Secondary School, Rampersad’s achievement shattered expectations and rewrote the record books, making her the youngest MVP in the history of the competition.
Her composure, skill, and tactical awareness stood out in a field dominated by experienced players, signalling the arrival of a new generation of talent in the game.
Her achievement represents more than personal success; it underscores the evolving landscape of All Fours, where traditional age and gender barriers continue to diminish. If the BORO CUP offers a glimpse into the future of the sport, Rampersad’s performance suggests that future is both bright and inclusive.
As the tournament concluded, feedback from participants and patrons was overwhelmingly positive. Players commended the seamless organisation, high-quality playing environment, and the respect shown to competitors, while spectators praised the comfort, entertainment, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Much of this success can be attributed to the leadership and vision of the organising team, led by Rachel “Darkie Sugar” Marajh and her dedicated committee. Their ability to combine professionalism with creativity has elevated the BORO CUP and set a new benchmark for All Fours tournaments.
Marajh emphasised that the event would not have been possible without the support of its main sponsor, White Oak, along with key partners Stag, Creamery, Pepsi, and Dale Auto. She noted that the collective commitment of sponsors and the energy of the team brought the event to life, and reaffirmed her ambition to continue advancing the game and expanding All Fours to an international stage.
In the final analysis, the BORO CUP is more than just a competition—it is a blueprint. It demonstrates that with the right investment, planning, and commitment to excellence, local traditions can be transformed into premier national events. As All Fours continues to grow in popularity across Trinidad and Tobago, the standard set by the BORO CUP will undoubtedly serve as both a challenge and an inspiration to others.
If this year’s tournament is any indication, the game has not just arrived—it is evolving, expanding, and firmly claiming its place at the heart of the nation’s cultural and sporting life.
