The games, co- organized by the Lions and Leo Clubs of Tortola along with the Valley/Sound Lions Club, were a tremendous success with all the participants from the BVI Services Department as well as the Eslyn Henley Richez Learning Centre thoroughly enjoying their day under the blazing sun.

“It was a lot of fun with a lot of competitive activity,” commented Tortola Lions Club President Mr. Jeremy Hodge. “The parents and members of the public had fun too watching all the different races. They were all included, it was good to give them such an event where they can have some fun and show their athletic ability and talents.”

The day’s activities, which were all expertly marshaled by Race Directors Talia Jackson and Ericka Frederick, began with emphatic wins for Zaria and Joe Adams.

In the “Battle of the Big Boys”, Akeem once again showed great speed to hold off the challenge from Brandon, in second and Chelton who finished 3rd.

The 50 metre Open Walk also proved a competitive affair with Alton Norley striding across the finish line just ahead of Devon Harrigan. Avanelle Hogan pipped Nama Dawson into 3rd place.

The eagerly awaited Lime and Spoon Races resulted in three very tight races. The first ending with a 1,2,3 of Joseph, Zaria and Kayla. The second had Deandre slipping past Tanya for 1st place and Kadeem Smith 3rd.

The senior race had a surprise late entrant, but the Honourable Andrew Fahie perhaps with his mind on another race he’s currently contesting, came a distant 4th to Akeem, with Brandon 2nd and Chelton 3rd.

The Bucket Races brought a return to winning ways for Zaria and the emergence of young Jeff George who made the podium in 3rd. Kadeem took first in the over 12’s race ahead of Kayla, Adams and Tanya.

Chelton climbed into second place in the senior race ahead of Brandon, but still behind Akeem.

As the dancing began to the tunes of Rugga’s Sounds and Brandon in particular busting some good moves, the Counting Race was won by Zaria ahead of Tahee, Kayden and Renardo. Renardo got instant revenge winning the Under 12’s ball-throw, a feat matched by Alphonso in the over 12’s.

As the ball-throw took place, the dancing became infectious with the Officials leading the way in an early “jouvert” road march.

“We love them and we look forward to doing it again next year,” commented Jeremy Hodge.