The tranquil waters of Old Man Bay are set to erupt with speed and sound as North Side Racing hosts the inaugural North Side Redline Full Throttle watercraft relay race.
The event, set for a kick-off time of 12pm on 10 Nov. at Old Man Bay Park, is spearheaded by the mother-and-son duo of Felisiana and Johnathon Ebanks.
Felisiana fulfills the role of North Side Racing’s team manager while her son Johnathon is a rider for the team, competing in local and international competitions.
She says the inspiration behind the event came from the absence of Cayman Islands Watercraft Association races between September and February.
“North Side Racing has been competing in the CIWA races for the past three years. Since there are no races from September to February, my son and I decided to organise a race in North Side to see if there would be any interest, and the response has been positively overwhelming,” said Felisiana.
When describing the race details for the upcoming event, which includes teams of three, she said,” The first lap will begin from the channel at the Old Man Bay Dock. Riders will head out to the Cayman Kai channel marker, make a right turn around the buoy, and then return to the Old Man Bay channel.
“Once the first rider enters the channel on their return, the next racer may take off. The same process continues for the third rider to complete the relay.”
Teams will battle for a $9,000 cash prize for first place, with $3,000 and $2,000 going to second and third, respectively.
The event, which is more than just a race designed to keep the racing spirit alive year-round, is also aimed at supporting the North Side community through fundraising efforts.
“The funds raised from this event will go to the North Side Community Development Committee in support of their Christmas programme. Each year, they host a Christmas gala and provide catering for 300 North Side residents. This year, we also hope to purchase gifts for the children,” said Felisiana.
The fun isn’t limited to watercraft racing, as the free event is designed to be a family-friendly cultural celebration with live music, family activities, food and culture, including a separate Best Fish Tea Competition with its own $1,000 prize.
