On Wednesday, 1st May 2024, the James Ronald Webster Park transformed into a spectacle of camaraderie and athleticism as spectators and teams from various private and public sectors gathered for the much-anticipated Anguilla Funday 2024. Organised by the Anguilla Amateur Athletic Federation, this annual Labour Day celebratory event brought together participants representing Aurora Anguilla Resort & Golf Club, Ani Villas, the Royal Anguilla Police Force/Her Majesty’s Prison (RAPF/HMP), Malliouhana, Four Seasons Resort and the 
Government of Anguilla for a day filled with spirited competitions and lively festivities.Teams clad in an array of vibrant colours vied for the esteemed Funday 2024 championship title and the accompanying trophies up for grabs. The day unfolded with a meticulously planned schedule of events, promising excitement and entertainment for participants and spectators alike. From traditional favourites to innovative challenges, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
The event kicked off with the Spelling Race, a test of speed and precision where teams raced to spell out the word “FUNDAY” letter by letter. With each runner tasked with retrieving a letter from a bucket and dashing back to the table, the tension was palpable as teams jostled for supremacy.
Among the many exciting events lined up for the day, the 4-Legged Race stood out as a test of teamwork and coordination. Teams of three strapped themselves and navigated the course in unison, with Four Seasons being the first to propel themselves across the finish line.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Suck it Up challenge offered a tantalising opportunity to indulge in sugary delights. Armed with straws and containers of Skittles, teams of three embarked on a frantic race to suck up and deposit as many candies as possible into their team cup – Aurora being the champions of this challenge.
Another highlight of the day was the Clothes Peg Race, a quirky yet exhilarating challenge that put participants’ dexterity to the test. With clothes pegs scattered across their shirts, contestants dashed to a clothesline, pinning one peg at a time with only one hand throughout the entire process, adding an extra layer of difficulty to the race. Aurora once again took home the gold.
Water-themed challenges added a refreshing twist to the proceedings, with Fill the Bottle requiring teams to work in unison to transfer water from a bucket to a bottle. Four Seasons was the victor of this challenge.
Meanwhile, the Egg and Spoon race brought out the delicate balance of skill and concentration, as participants gingerly navigated the course with eggs perched precariously on spoons, striving to avoid any mishaps along the way. While the RAPF seemed to be the clear winner, they dropped their egg, making way for Ani Villas to steal the win.
As the day progressed, the excitement reached a crescendo with the 4 x 100 Relay. With teams of four sprinting towards the finish line, the air crackled with energy as spectators cheered on their favourites as the Government of Anguilla literally came from behind to take home the win.
The crowd favourite Men’s Night Out saw male participants getting a taste of dressing as women as they whimsically donned their “best” dresses, heels and wigs, burst out their best dance moves and raced for the finish line. The hilarious spectacle ended with Four Seasons once again being victorious.
Other events such as the Ball Throw, Noodle Toss, Water Balloon Race offered opportunities for individuals and teams alike to showcase their athleticism and precision. These events weren’t just about competition; they were about bonding, laughter, and creating cherished memories amidst the jubilant atmosphere of the day.
Of course, no Funday would be complete without the exhilarating Tug-of-War, a battle of strength and determination that saw teams lock horns in fierce competition, striving to outmuscle their opponents and claim victory. After a competitive number of rounds, the final showdown was between the RAPF/HMP and Aurora Anguilla Resort. It was an intense battle of strength that had spectators and participants either on the edge of their seats, gritting their teeth or cheering at the top of their lungs for their respective teams. In the end, it was Aurora that finally came out on top as their team chanted, “We are number one” in triumph.
As the sun arced across the sky, the day culminated in a grand finale, with Aurora’s cheerleading team performing a well-choreographed and entertaining routine before teams converged for the Closing Ceremony Awards.
Amidst cheers and applause, Aurora came out on top with a resounding 170 points and swept the top prizes – winning all four coveted trophies for Cheerleading, Tug o’ War, Largest Team, and of course, 2024 Funday Champions. In true spirited fashion, the team continued to celebrate their achievements. Meanwhile, Four Seasons and the RAPF/HMP walked away with 138 and 122 points respectively, earning second and third places. The remaining teams were also equally praised for their accomplishments and sportsmanship throughout the event.
Anguilla Funday 2024 was more than just a sporting extravaganza; it was a celebration of community spirit and unity, bringing people together in joyous camaraderie. As teams dispersed, weary but elated, the echoes of laughter and cheers lingered in the air, a testament to the enduring magic of this beloved island tradition.
