News
Valentines Day Cup 2022
#TurksandCaicos, February 3, 2022 – This beloved local annual event is coming up fast! All covid protocols are being observed, all permits in place – music, food and model sailboat races from 11am to 4pm on Bambarra beach, Middle Caicos. This is the 20th! Annual race day on the beach…..come along and join the fun.
In 2000, as a special Millennium Project, six model sailboats were commissioned to be carved by local boat builders in Middle Caicos. This traditional toy has been a part of TCI heritage and culture for generations- but few boats remained in action. Since 2000, over 100 boats have been carved, raced, sold and retired! The model sailboats range in size from 15 inches to 56 inches, rigged predominantly as sloops, with several large gaff rigged boats as well. The race day event now includes the Ladies’ Open race, the Men’s Open race, the Class B Small boats race and the Premiers Cup! There is no charge to enter the races, simply choose your boat, register with the Commodore of the day, practice a bit on the shallow sands of Bambarra beach and then join your race!
The boats are housed by the Middle Caicos Coo-op, and moving soon to their new museum and workshop in North Caicos at My Dees Plaza. The work to maintain the fleet of model boats is non-stop – repairs to sails, rudders and general maintenance an ongoing labour. The new location will also offer workshops for those interested in this heritage craft and encourage new boats to be carved. Volunteers always welceom!!