The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

AFTER cancelling last year’s Regatta due to lack of funding and outstanding debts, event chairman Chervita Campbell says they are planning for the 2014 event to be the best ever, with a new twist.

This year the event will consist of a heritage component, according to Campbell who announced that the annual event will now be referred to as the Grand Bahama Regatta and Heritage Festival. It will be held at Taino Beach on July 18 and 19.

The regatta committee ran into financial difficulties following the 2012 Regatta, failing to settle debts with boat owners in Abaco and to New Hope Holding in Grand Bahama, which resulted in the cancellation last year.

Several fundraisers have been held and contributions have been made by corporate citizens. Campbell has since reported that the committee has settled its debts and is looking forward to a successful regatta.

The GB Regatta was first introduced in 1993. The event was well supported for several years with sailing teams from throughout the country participating. In later years, however, the event started to lose the support of locals.

Under the leadership of chairman Campbell, the committee is determined to make this year’s Regatta the “best ever.” The entire Grand Bahama community is encouraged to get involved and support the continuance of a sloop sailing regatta for the island.

On Sunday, July 13, the activities start with a dedication service at St Nicolas Anglican Church in High Rock at 10am. Transport will be provided for those who require assistance. A bus will leave Solomon’s Lucaya at 9am for the journey to East End. A Skipper’s Party will be held at Triple Play Sports Bar & Grill in West End on Thursday, July 17 (6-8pm). This is a private party for sailors, boat owners, sponsors and mariners from Palm Beach.

On July 18 and 19, the races will take place for Class A, B, and C off Taino Beach. Junior sailing and sculling races also will be held.

This year’s heritage component will be organised by Pleasant Bridgewater, who has recently joined the team. While sailing and racing is going on at sea, there will be a buzz of activity at the Taino Beach Park.

“The Heritage Committee is busy planning to ensure that there will be ample native food, entertainment, and activities, such as plaiting the maypole, and various arts and crafts on display,” Campbell said.