Amongst the regional winners of the ICC Annual Development Awards for the Americas was a nomination from the Argentine Cricket Association, taken by Christian Tunon, entitled "Hang In There!". The photograph was taken during the South American U15 Championships in Buenos Aires in October, 2008, in a match between Argentina U15 and Chile U15 played at St.George's College. The two young Argentina batsmen in the photo are Lorenzo Altuzarra (left) and Martin Peralta (right).
ICC Americas Regional Development Manager, Martin Vieira, commented: "The Photo of the Year category attracted the most nominations and judging was very difficult. Argentina's submission "Hang In There" best described the commitment needed in the development of players."
Winning photographer Christian Tunon was delighted with the award. "I enjoy taking photos, and nowadays I suppose it's not too difficult with digital cameras, but still, it is great when you realise you have captured a great moment, like the exact moment the ball hits the wickets or something. This wasn't action, but it's still a very special moment with two young boys playing for their country and doing their best, showing great attitude.
"It's an honour to win this award because I know there were many great photographs from all over the Americas, but I'm happy a photo of two young Argentine cricketers will represent the region."
President of the Argentine Cricket Association, Ricardo Lord, added: "We are always pleased to be recognised in the Annual Development Awards, and this is no exception. Photographs are a great vehicle to show the spirit and nature of the game to all people, and this particular photograph is a wonderful example of friendship and teamwork needed in the sport, as well as incorporating the element of youth development.
"I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate all regional winners, and simply all nominees as well. In development there are no losers, and everyone deserves recognition for the great efforts being made in the region to develop this great game of ours."
The full list of Americas regional winners is as follows:
- Best Overall Cricket Development Programme: Bermuda Cricket Board
- Best Cricket Promotion and Marketing Programme: Chile - Beach Cricket Festival
- Best Women's Cricket Initiative: USA - North West Cricket League
- Best Junior Cricket Initiative: Bermuda - U6 to U19
- Photo Of The Year: Argentina - "Hang In There"
- Best Spirit Of Cricket Initiative: Bermuda - "No Child Goes Without"
- Volunteer Of The Year: Chile - Patricio Caamano
- Lifetime Service Award: Canada - Austin Ward


