THE Annual Bartica Regatta activities were held with much splendour and fervour this year, thanks to the Regatta Committee collaborating closely with the popular DC Promotions fraternity.
Regional Chairman Gordon Bradford declared the boat races open at Golden Beach Circuit; and, in his presentation, noted that the Regatta is an event anticipated by many Guyanese, and even visitors from the wider
Part of the Bartica Regatta 2014 beach festivities
diaspora.
He observed that the activity has grown in strength and popularity after fifty years in existence; and whereas there used to be only simple boat racing in times past, there now are activities that encompass a series of events that cater for every segment of the populace.
Bradford added that while this growth has not been without many challenges, it is, however, a sure testimony of the commitment of various planning committees, who worked assiduously over the years to plan and execute the events.
He welcomed the Regatta Committee’s collaboration with DC Promotions, noting that that collaboration has made it possible for the committee to offer quality shows to the public despite their economic struggles in the mining sector, which have impacted greatly on the lives of Barticians.
CONTINUED SUPPORT
Bradford lauded President Donald Ramotar and the Government of Guyana for their continued support of the Bartica Regatta, and noted that Bartica is set to become one of the major tourism destinations in this country.
It was fun and excitement when the boat races kicked off soon after the Chairman’s speech, and the spectators were definitely thrilled. As the large crowd yelled and screamed in wild abandon, Dave Scott, manoeuvring the ‘Jaguar’, took top honours in the Unlimited 225 horsepower (hp) category of the races. In second place was Jose Jardine with ‘Flash Out’.
The competition was gruelling in the 115-200 hp category, but none could match the finesse of Jose Jardine in ‘Flash’, who forced Scott with ‘Jaguar’ and Dave Young in ‘Monster 13’ to settle for second and third places respectively.
Jardine again was first in the 75-90 hp race, with Young second.
Monster 13, manned by Dave Young, roared to victory in the 25-40 hp group, with Romeo Randolph’s ‘Varshnie’ second.
Many enjoyed the fierce battle in the Jet Ski Competition, but, in the end, it was Michel Martindale who won, with Whitney Welcome placing second and Donavon Washington third.
The Jaguar won in the 225 HP unlimited race, with ‘Flash’ taking second place and ‘Monster’ third. In the 115-200 hp segment, a surprise winner was Selwyn Joseph with ‘De Girls Dem Suga’, and Jardine and Young in respective second and third positions.
The extended April 14 to 19 programme included a Football Competition at the Bartica Community Centre; Gospel Fest staged on April 18; the Bartica Regatta Pageant on April 20; the April 21 ‘Kiddies Fair’, and the much-anticipated ‘Regatta Wash Down’ at Third Avenue Beach.
(By Alex Wayne)