WESTERN BUREAU:
THE ORGANISING committee of the 2002 Lucea Cross-the-Harbour Swim and Fisherman's Regatta, which will be officially launched at the Tryall Club, in Hanover, this afternoon, has announced a 100 per cent increase in prize money for the winner of the event, which is slated for Emancipation Day (August 1).
According to a release from the committee, which is led by Lloyd Johnson, in a bid to attract additional participants and give more prestige to the event, the prize money for the cross the harbour champion has been increased from the $10,000, which was originally announced, to $20,000.
In outlining his expectation for the event, which was revived last year after being in limbo for a few years, Mr. Johnson said the public holiday (Emancipation Day) was chosen for the event because his committee is anxious to attract the full participation of all the residents of the Lucea and its environs. In addition, he said the event was being staged to coincide with the annual Hanover Homecoming.
In addition to the overall winner, the other contestants in the cross the harbour swim, which is considered the stellar attraction on the day's fun-filled itinerary, will also be handsomely rewarded. The event, which is divided in three categories, is essentially open as the winner can come from any of the three categories. The three categories are: male, female and veterans.
Last year, the dynamic young female swimmer Raine Paulson was the toast of the event, achieving the enviable distinction of emerging tops from a strong field, inclusive of numerous male swimmers, to cop the Shell Co. (W.I.) trophy, the President's Trophy and the $10,000 cash prize. She will be back to defend her title this year.
However, Paulson's bid to retain the title could prove quite difficult as according to co-chairperson of the event Anthony Marks, they are hoping to attract international competitors for the three-quarter mile swim. "The Cross-The-Harbour is not just for locals and Jamaicans, we want some of our visitors to the island to participate as well."
In the fishing section of the day's event, which fishermen from the Lucea Fishermen's Co-operative are expected to dominate, the fishermen will be vying for prizes in three categories. The three are: 'The Largest Bonito Catch', 'The Biggest Fish Overall' and the 'Largest Multiple Catch."
The water sports section, which should also generate a fair deal of excitement, will see canoe racing, kayaking, bamboo rafting and wheel boat racing. In addition, there will be sunset cruise, parasailing and whatever games patrons may want to indulge in on the beach and in the water. "We will be definitely be pulling out all the stops to ensure the success of this event," said Mr. Johnson. "This is an event for all the lovers of water sports from all walks of life. Regardless of where you are in Jamaica, we are inviting you to come and be a part of this event."
