Lianne Robinson, Gleaner Writer
TUESDAY NIGHT'S Clipper-Venture Round the World Yacht race awards ceremony was the perfect opportunity for Port Antonio Marina to announce that it will be changing its name to the Errol Flynn Marina.
The awards ceremony held on the grounds was a colourful event with guests, including Dr. Donald Rhodd from the Ministry of National Security, clipper crew members, representatives from the port and staff of the Jamaica Tourist Board, enjoying the luxury finger buffet and flowing bar while being entertained by a local band and traditional dancers.
Robert Stevens of the port authority welcomed guests and gave a brief history of Port Antonio and its title as an eco-heritage destination. Rosie Donaldson, vice-president of marketing at the Port Authority, continued by explaining the re-launch of the marina and announced the new name. This was followed by a champagne toast.
THE UNVEILING
The late Errol Flynn's widow, Patrice Wymore-Flynn, was guest of honour at the unveiling. She captured the audience when she expressed a few words about the occasion. She said: "Errol used to say that Port Antonio was more beautiful than any woman he had ever met, of course that was before he had met me. Although he is not here to see it today, he would be so pleased that his dream and vision to make Port Antonio and Jamaica the Jewel of the Caribbean again, is now turning into a reality. I would like to officially welcome the crew of Clipper-Venture yachts as the first guests at the Errol Flynn Marina." Mrs. Flynn extended her thanks to everyone at the port who had worked so hard to make this happen.
She was also on hand to present the boat winners with their trophies for the race, in the style of three wooden-carved cocks, which represent an old sailing tradition. Durban, the winners of this leg of the race, joined in with the Jamaican culture by posing with dreadlocks hats. Mrs. Flynn spent the evening charming the guests and was more than happy to pose for
photos and sign Eroll Flynn T-shirts for the skippers.
