7 years ago
Turks and Caicos , part of the Lucayan Archipelago of 40 islands, played host to the Queen’s Baton Relay as one of the final locations on the baton’s Caribbean leg.
The first day of the relay took place on Provo, to streets lined with cheering fans showing their support for the Queen’s Baton as it journeyed around the island.
The baton was carried by iconic cultural dancers such as Mr. Maskanoo. His colourful red outfit billowed in the breeze as he stood with sprinter Courtney Missick and middle-distance runner Akia Guerrier.
The relay on Provo continued on from the Sammy Been Plaza with His Excellency Peter Beckingham – Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands – who in turn handed the baton over to Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands, The Honourable Dr. Rufus Washington Ewing.
In an amazing show of endurance, H.E. Governor Peter Beckingham ran beside the baton for the entire duration of the relay, setting the standard for any other official representatives yet to carry the baton!
The baton then journeyed to Grand Turk Island and once again was carried with enthusiasm across lush sun drenched landscapes.
The relay continued with sports association athletes and officials carrying the baton via Government House, the Tourist Board Office, and Grand Turk Museum.
Outside the museum, the Turks and Caicos Islands’ Premier Doctor Rufus Ewing joined in once again by running and cycling with the relay and announcing his support for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games and the Queen’s Baton Relay.
Fisherman’s Bay, Clock Tower and the Salt Museum were the last locations the baton would visit before heading toward the Parade Grounds, where the baton was carried by batonbearers before the Queen’s Baton Relay welcome ceremony.
Justin Parker and Daniella Douglas of the Turks and Caicos Islands Sailing Association took the baton out on a catamaran across the crystal clear waters of Grace Bay.
The athletes were welcomed on the beach by the drumming and dancing of the We Funk band.
The relay’s journey continues through the Caribbean…
Check out some more incredible images from the baton’s time in Turks and Caicos.
