For Leshern Naidoo, a 32-year-old travel industry worker from Isipingo Beach, Durban, a lifelong dream recently became reality.
As a passionate Liverpool FC supporter since childhood, Naidoo won a competition hosted by Sunbet that sent him on an unforgettable journey to England, culminating in a meeting with his football idol, Michael Owen.
The competition, aligned with Owen's weekly Premier League predictions, offered a five-night trip to England as the grand prize. Naidoo, along with 24 other Sun International winners and guests, embarked on a whirlwind adventure that included attending the Manchester United vs Liverpool match at Old Trafford, a tour of the iconic Anfield stadium, and a day spent at Owen's equestrian estate.
"I was shocked when I got the call to say I'd won," Naidoo exclaimed. "It was a legendary trip!" He described the experience of visiting the modernized Anfield stadium, which he had previously seen in 2014 before renovations, and enjoying live music at the historic Cavern Club, famous for its association with The Beatles.
While the football match ended in a two-all draw, leaving Naidoo slightly disappointed with his team's performance, the overall atmosphere was electrifying. He noted the contrasting energy of the home fans, who were quiet during Manchester United's struggles but erupted in song towards the end.
The highlight of the trip, however, was undoubtedly meeting Michael Owen at his Manor House racing stables in Cheshire. "We enjoyed a tour of the yard, looking at the racing stables, and viewing the gallops and equine spa," Naidoo explained. "Then, we had drinks and a chat with Michael, where he signed our kit and spoke about his days as a player and his current life."
The trip concluded with a farewell dinner at the Cheshire racecourse, attended by former English player Mark Wright. For Naidoo, this dream trip was more than just a competition win; it was a chance to connect with his passion for football and meet his childhood hero, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
The competition, aligned with Owen's weekly Premier League predictions, offered a five-night trip to England as the grand prize. Naidoo, along with 24 other Sun International winners and guests, embarked on a whirlwind adventure that included attending the Manchester United vs Liverpool match at Old Trafford, a tour of the iconic Anfield stadium, and a day spent at Owen's equestrian estate.
"I was shocked when I got the call to say I'd won," Naidoo exclaimed. "It was a legendary trip!" He described the experience of visiting the modernized Anfield stadium, which he had previously seen in 2014 before renovations, and enjoying live music at the historic Cavern Club, famous for its association with The Beatles.
While the football match ended in a two-all draw, leaving Naidoo slightly disappointed with his team's performance, the overall atmosphere was electrifying. He noted the contrasting energy of the home fans, who were quiet during Manchester United's struggles but erupted in song towards the end.
The highlight of the trip, however, was undoubtedly meeting Michael Owen at his Manor House racing stables in Cheshire. "We enjoyed a tour of the yard, looking at the racing stables, and viewing the gallops and equine spa," Naidoo explained. "Then, we had drinks and a chat with Michael, where he signed our kit and spoke about his days as a player and his current life."
The trip concluded with a farewell dinner at the Cheshire racecourse, attended by former English player Mark Wright. For Naidoo, this dream trip was more than just a competition win; it was a chance to connect with his passion for football and meet his childhood hero, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
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