The 2018 Anguilla Day Round the Island Boat Race was held on Wednesday, May 30, under a new name as a fitting tribute to the late Sir Emile Gumbs, a former sailor, sea captain and boat racer.
This added much excitement to the event which was keenly followed by two passenger-laden barges, with fans and entertainers, and accompanied by other supporting boats.
The renaming suggestion for the race came from Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. Cardigan Connor, who has responsibility for Tourism, Sports and Culture. He suggested that the event should be renamed the Sir Emile Round the Island Boat Race.
The idea had the immediate support of the House of Assembly on May 23, during the Special Sitting for tributes to Sir Emile, the late second Chief Minister of Anguilla. It was subsequently taken to the Executive Council by Chief Minister, Mr. Victor Banks, where it was formally approved.
Wednesday’s race saw a large gathering at Road Bay at its start and conclusion and its progress was monitored by a number of fans on coastal elevations along the route.
There were nine boats in the race. One of them, Real Deal, unfortunately, sank, while Blue Bird and Speed & Comfort turned back. The results of the race were:
Sonic, 1st; Light & Peace, 2nd; De Tree, 3rd; Satellite, 4th; UFO, 5th; and 4G Eagle, 6th.
