Ekar finally bags one

 By JACK AMI

ONE of the counrty’s longest serving photographers Ekar Keapu was not present to receive the award for best photograph at Saturday night’s 2013 SP Sports Awards night at the Crowne Plaza in Port Moresby.

For the man known amongst his colleagues as “Kela” it was meaningful recognition for his dedicated service and commitment to the media industry over a career that has spanned 35 years.

His winning picture titled “Try time” captured a crowd in jubilation as the PNG Prime Mninster’s XIII celebrate a try against Australian PM’s XIII. 

Keapu, 53, started his career as a teenager with the Department of Information & Extension Services in 1978 and from there worked with the University of PNG, Post Courier, Niugini Nius and The National newspaper where he currently plies his trade.

During the days leading to the awards the straight-talking Iokea native did not give his nomination a second thought, nonchalantly deflecting any remarks about his chances. 

For the former cross-country specialist his work as a news and sports photographer was the only thing on his mind.

After his daily sports run on Saturday, Ekar was dropped off at his home at Hohola 2 and advised this reporter that his wife Kay and son Philip would represent him at the awards. 

Not one who wants to be in the spot light the rangy Gulf man was more intent on taking it easy after a long day in the field.

Kay was surprised and delighted her husband’s name was announced as the winner. She responded with a big smile saying “Now I’m the photograph woman”. 

She thanked SP Brewery, PNG Sports Federation and Olympic Committee and the awards selection panel for choosing Ekar.