Times of the Islands Spring 2019

faces and places
From left: Food huts on Bambarra Beach kept the large crowd well-fed. Sailors ranged from young to mature, at all experience levels. Below
right: Pastor Gold Williams sails his model boat—much smaller than the full-size versions he usually builds.
Valentine’s Day Cup Model Sailboat Races
“It was the best yet!” The Valentine’s Day Cup Model Sailboat
Races on February 16, 2019 at Bambarra Beach in Middle Caicos
were an outstanding success. The beach hummed with activity as
over 250 happy folk enjoyed the day, the food, the music and the
sailboats! It was a perfect day, with a gentle breeze keeping the
beach fresh and the boats moving along. All the schools on North
Caicos had food huts offering mouth-watering dishes to raise
funds for sports projects. The music was vibrant with MC David
Bowen keeping the crowd engaged and entertained by the two
bands on site—the Sea Breeze Rip Saw Band and Bowen Arrow.
Almost all boats had new sails for 2019, courtesy of dedicated
volunteers and the annual support of the TCI Tourist Board. The races were hugely popular, with lots of participation
from captains of all ages, many with little experience but lots of enthusiasm. The Premier’s Office support makes
it possible for cash prizes, trophies and special awards for the sailors. Awards earned included: Youngest Captain
From left: Women sailors await the start of the Ladies Open Challenge. TCI Tourism Director
Ramon Andrews presents George Ellis with the Award for Perseverance.
Max Lucas (age 5); Oldest Captain
Ralph Wilke (age 75); Best Sailing
Skills Kevin Darmody; Best
Sportsmanship Denaz Williams;
Dolphus Arthur Memorial Award
for Overall Seamanship Ralph Wilke;
Valentine Sweetheart Awards for
Perseverance Sara Kaufman, George
Ellis and Maggie. It is a great committee
of volunteers and friends who
come together and make this event
happen every year, and heartfelt
thanks to all.
Courtesy Sara Kaufman
Times of the Islands Spring 2019 71