Ray Lucas, 14 years old, from the Ramacrisna Institute, is nominated for the 2024 Minas Gerais Sports Award in the Athlete Scholarship category

Young judoka Ray Lucas Matos de Araújo, only 14 years old, is a standout in Betim sports and is competing for the 2024 Minas Gerais Sports Award (PEM), organized by the Minas Gerais State Government. Nominated in the Athlete Scholarship category, he seeks recognition through a popular vote. This is an opportunity for the community to engage and support local sports talents, including the young athlete representing the Ramacrisna Institute.

Ray Lucas has an inspiring journey: he excelled in the Brazilian School Games (JEBs) in Recife this year, where he won a silver medal, and holds the title of three-time champion of the Minas Gerais School Games (Jemg), among other significant achievements. The Minas Gerais Sports Award celebrates the state’s outstanding sports achievements and honors athletes, coaches, and organizations that drive Minas Gerais as a center of sports excellence.

For Solange Bottaro, vice-president of the Ramacrisna Institute, having Ray Lucas as a finalist for this award is a source of pride and reinforces the Institute’s commitment to supporting young talents: “Investing in sports is investing in the future of our youth. Ray is an example of dedication and perseverance, and seeing his effort recognized and valued is a great achievement not only for him but for all of us who closely follow him. At the Ramacrisna Institute, we believe sports are a powerful tool for transformation and encouraging dreams, and we are very happy to support Ray on this journey.”

Ray’s coach, Caliton Silva, also shares the enthusiasm and pride for the athlete: “He has shown impressive performance, with great discipline and determination. Every achievement is the result of a lot of effort and genuine commitment to the sport.”

Ray says that his nomination for the PEM was an exciting surprise. “It’s amazing to see all my work and training being appreciated. I thank the Ramacrisna Institute, my sensei Caliton, and everyone who has always supported me,” says the young athlete.

The public can participate in choosing the winners by voting until November 17. To support Ray Lucas Matos de Araújo, just access the voting link available on the official Minas Gerais Sports Award website and cast your vote.