Dear Editor,
We the residents of Bartica were happy to see the many thousands of persons who visited the town to view the power-boat races and pageant, and were also happy about the visit of President Bharrat Jagdeo, Dr Westford and Minister Manniram Prashad. It was heartwarming to see the President mingle with people from all walks of life on Golden Beach.

The rain came, but the racers braved the weather and put on a good show. There was a problem with the circuit. The turn buoys were placed too far away. These were adjusted on the second day – Monday – since racers could not see the buoys because of the heavy rain. The Pomeroon racers were not happy about that.

This caused Neil Gonsalves to lose two races, while Randy Bell emerged champion driver for 2010. In the future the course should be laid out by seniors, all racers should agree with the layout, and this should remain the official race course. If any adjustments are to be done, all racers should be consulted.

The host for the regatta should have made proper arrangements for transportation between Parika and Bartica with speedboat operators since February, so that there would have been extra vessels and ads placed in the newspapers for the benefit of passengers. Mind you, I am not criticizing, only advising. I was once a promoter for the Bartica Regattas in April and August.

Yours faithfully,
Winston Miller, Sr
Power Boat Association