The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

THE 45th annual Conch Cracking Festival in McLean's Town is expected to attract hundreds to East Grand Bahama on Monday, October 9.

The Ministry of Tourism and the McLean's Town Conch Cracking Association have announced plans to hold the first National Conch Cracking Championship, which is being sponsored by BTC.

The cultural festival will be held at the McLean's Town School grounds from 11am to 8pm and will feature lots of conch themed dishes, and other native food and drinks.

Last year's festival was canceled due to Hurricane Matthew.

Elaine Smith, senior manager of cultural festivals, said such events are an integral part of the island's tourism product.

"We recognise the importance of these celebrations that tell the story of our past and highlight the rich value of our Bahamian history," she said.

Ms Smith said visitors and residents could participate in the plaiting of the maypole, kayak racing, and the unique conch fritters and spoon race. She said there would be lots of fresh seafood available by local fishermen, as well as live entertainment and performances by Deep South Island Boys, Royal Bahamas Police Pop Band, and the East End School.

The ministry will facilitate the transportation of guests from hotels in the Freeport area.

Latesha Lord, marketing and public relations officer at BTC, said the company has committed up to $10,000 in cash to ensure a successful festival.

"We are pleased that the committee has asked us to once again partner with them," she said.

Ms Lord said BTC would be providing free wi-fi for patrons. The company will also have a booth at the festival grounds.

Belinda Russell, assistant chairman of the McLean's Town Conch Cracking Association, thanked BTC and fellow sponsor Burn's House.

Ms Russell said that the national Conch Cracking Championship is an open event and persons are invited to represent their island to determine which island of The Bahamas has the fastest conch cracker in the country.

She said there are cash prizes of $700, $500, and $300 for first, second, and third place finishers, respectively. She said the winner would also receive a high end cellular phone from BTC, and be the first listed winner of the BTC floating trophy.

There will also be conch cracking competitions for visitors, businesses, and juniors. Businesses on the island are encouraged to have one or more persons from their company to enter. Applications are available, or individuals can call chairman Kendal Leathen at 443-9678.

Ms Russell said the registration fee this year has been waived.

"The public can be assured of a fun-filled day for the whole family with the hospitality of the people of McLean's Town and East Grand Bahama," she said.

The McLean's Town Conch Cracking Festival first started in 1972 under the inspiration of English teacher Jeffery Morgan.

"Even though Hurricane Matthew caused the cancellation of the festival last year, it has inspired the committee to work to make up for last year. We are looking greater participation to make this year's event a success, which will help us contribute to the improvement of the community of McLean's Town," he said.