The Tribune

By BRENT STUBBS

Senior Sports Reporter

bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

FOR his contributions to the growth and development of the Acklins and Berry Islands Regatta, King Eric Gibson will have the regatta site at Spring Point named in his honour when this year’s regatta is held August 1-5.

Rupert Cox, the commodore of the regatta for the past decade, is pleased to have been associated with Gibson for as long as he can remember. But he said Gibson’s contribution has been so valuable to the committee that they are delighted to give him his flowers while he is alive.

“He has been in this a long time. He came from the musical field and got into sailing and he has done very well,” Cox said. “For that, we in Acklins would like to honour him. We want to name that regatta site in his honour.”

Doramae Wright, chairman/treasurer of the regetta, said King Eric has been helping out regattas throughout the Bahamas for over 40 years. But as a native son of the island, they want to make sure that he gets the kind of accolades that is due to him now.

Although it’s not confirmed by government as yet, Gibson said he’s thrilled to have been honoured in such a way.

“This is what I live for. It ain’t for money. All I live for is when you get recognised for what you do,” Gibson said. “I don’t do this to put any money in my pocket. I never did and never had to do it. But it’s important when people recognise you for what you are doing.

“Most of the people who do these regattas will tell you that all these regattas are is a headache. You can’t expect to put any money in your pocket. But when I can have two or three come your way and say ‘King you’re doing a good job,’ you feel good about it.’”

On June 29 at Club Luna as a prelude to the regatta, Gibson said they will be recognising 15 persons who hail from Acklins, but many may not know them.

Among the list of entertainment for the night will be the Battle of the Drums, Peanuts, Chippie and King Errison, who toured with Neil Diamond for the past 30 years. He is a native of Acklins, who will be coming home to participate in the event.

“We are looking for all of our friends and even those who have supported in the past to come out and attend the event,” Cox said.

During the regatta, Cox said he’s also challenging Rev Dr Philip McPhee to come down and bring his two boats and see if he can win the titles.

Wright said they are looking forward to having an exciting time in Acklins

On hand was Frank “Colourful Man” Hanna, who made a contribution of $500 to the regatta.

“I always call him the great King of Babylon, King Eric Gibson,” Hanna said. “I first went to Acklins about 20-something years ago with King Eric to sail. At that time, there were only about four boats sailing. But from then, I have been going there periodically.

“I would like to sanction the naming of the regatta in his honour. He’s a good sailor. He’s a good boatman. I think he’s won some races and so it’s a privilege to honour him. I will be in Acklins on August 1. I will be sailing with Rev McPhee on his boat. So he can look for me in Acklins this year.”