Anguilla, now emerging from the aftermath of Hurricane Irma and the fallout of economic, financial and unemployment woes, found much pleasure in observing Labour Day on Tuesday, May 1, 2018, with the annual Fun Day events at the Ronald Webster Park.
It was a very hot and drought-stricken day, but a large number of public and private sector employees converged on the island’s premier sporting grounds not only to enjoy a varied programme of leisure activities, but large amounts of food and other refreshment as well.
“We have tried our best to allow everybody, who indicated an interest, to participate in Fun Day because, at the end of the day, it is really about participation and having a good time,” President of the Anguilla Amateur Athletic Association, Mrs. Lorna Kentish-Rogers, told the teams at the opening ceremony.
The twelve teams represented were ANGLEC; CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa; Customs; Digicel; the Anguilla Fire and Rescue Services; Four Seasons; the Anguilla Government; Belmond Cap Juluca; Health Authority; the Anguilla Teachers’ Union; the Royal Anguilla Police Force; and, for the first time, International Wines & Spirits (IWAS – Coors).
The Athletic Association President was pleased with the participation of so many employees including those from the hotel sector despite the impact of Hurricane Irma.
Acting Labour Commissioner, Mrs. Jo-anne Hodge, said in part: “I would like to thank the Anguilla Amateur Athletic Association for having another Fun Day despite the difficult circumstances, and I am very glad to see all of you here today.”
She added: “I just want to remind you that today is not a competition. It’s a day when we come together and forget our issues and whatever else is affecting us in terms of jobs and so on. It is all about fun and fellowship.”
The time of “fun and fellowship” was in fact reflected by the excited teams throughout the sporting activities. Although the event was not a competition, there was a tally of scores which showed the following results: 1st place: Four Seasons with 118 points; Digicel 106; and Police 90. Team with the most shirts: CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa; Tug-O’-War champions: Digicel.
