ANTIGUA SAILING WEEK

The Copper and Lumber Restaurant was the scene of the final farewell to the slew of Russian businessmen who made Antigua and Barbuda their playground for the past week.
 

The National Parks Authority in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism sponsored a dinner and prize giving ceremony in culmination of the week-long sailing event which saw Prime Minister the Hon. Baldwin Spencer being granted the privilege of being named an honorary crew member by General Manger of the Event Mr. Boris Boltyanskiy. Boltyanskiy thanked the government and people of Antigua and Barbuda for the warmth and hospitality bestowed upon the Russians during the week; which they said provided many avenues for fun, relaxation and of course business.
 

The Hon. Prime Minister welcomed the commendations stating that he is delighted with the reports of a successful event in all quarters. Tourism Minister the Hon. John Maginley echoed those sentiments stating that he too is “very pleased that our visitors from Russia enjoyed their stay and I would like them to make Antigua and Barbuda their destination of choice time and time again”.
 

Both P.M. Spencer and Minister of Tourism the Hon. John Maginley presented titled trophies to the overall winners. The St. Peter’s friendship trophy was presented as a measure of goodwill and appreciation to the sailors by Mr. Vanroy “Festus” Isaac on behalf of the Jolly Harbour Marina.
 

The presentation ceremony was done with a touch of island flare as all winners were presented with dreadlocked hats compliments Rasta Pasta.
 

The evening’s entertainment consisted of live musical performances by the popular island band Itchy Feet as well as fire dancing displays by “Mr. Moves”.
 

Minister of Finance the Hon. Harold Lovell and Minister of Culture also Parliamentary Representative for the St. Paul’s constituency Hon. Eleston Adams formed part of the official delegation along with Mr. Cortwright Marshall Director of Policy and Planning within the Ministry of Tourism and Mr. Claude Anthony Chairman of the National Parks Authority Board.
 

On the ground Event Organizer and Liaison Officer Mr. Eugene Kipper reported that the final compliment of Russians was safely sent off yesterday and he is quite happy with the outcome of the activity. He says from all indications its Antigua and Barbuda once again for the Russian Business Sailing Week in 2013!