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On the 17th of May at
three thirty in the afternoon, my three thousand mile journey across
the Atlantic Ocean came to an end. Arriving in Antigua was both a
relief and a thrill. In 1975 I visited Antigua and experienced a
deep affinity for the island and its people.
The welcome I received last week was simply outstanding and was
certainly not what I expected. The fleet of boats which I thought
was a regatta, but were in fact my escort, was just the first part
of an arrival to remember. My heartfelt thanks go to everyone who
came to meet me, especially The Hon Harold Lovell, Minister of
Tourism, who took time from a very busy schedule to welcome me and
address the reception in the evening. Yachting liaison officer Mr
Andy McDonald played a key part in the ceremonies and I thank him
also.
The hospitality and support received by my family and the generous
way we have been treated display the human spirit of the island
people and for all this we thank you so much. Particular thanks go
to the Yacht club of Antigua, the Tot club, Mr. Guy Rowsell, Mr.
Chris Harris of the MV Sea Terror, Mrs. Ethelyn Phillips of the
Admiral’s Inn, Mr. Mark Boswell of Galleon Beach Resort, Mr. George
Clarke of Antigua Yacht Services, Mr. Tino Troje-Tuck of Woodstock
Boat Builders, Commander Jack Kerr Royal Navy, and Mr. Paul
Lawrence, Deputy High Commissioner.
My wife and I have decided that we would like to donate my boat,
the Womble, to the Island of Antigua, in the hope that it
will be used as an exhibit in one of the museums, until the museum
of ocean rowing is established.
It is my hope
that a team or individual from Antigua might enter one of the rowing
races in the future, and that the Womble be made available to them
for that purpose. In that event I will make myself available to
offer every assistance.
In conclusion I would like to say that future ocean rowers are in
for a wonderful landfall in this tropical paradise and I hope to
spend many more happy times here with my family.
James (Tiny) Little |
