One of the many regattas in the country that was either started or conceived by the late legendary sportsman and entertainer "King" Eric Gibson is just about a week away.

The 3rd Annual Rock Sound Regatta is set for September 22-24 in the waters of Rock Sound, Eleuthera.

Co-Chairman of the Rock Sound Association Tavaris Bowleg said that it was an easy decision for them in honoring the iconic "King" Eric. He died about three years ago at the age of 79, and was never able to see the regatta come through to fruition.

"King" Eric's son, Member of Parliament for the Golden Gates constituency and Minister of Labour and National Insurance Shane Gibson, said on behalf of the family that they are honored to have their father remembered in this way. The Rock Sound Regatta was the brainchild of "King" Eric before he passed away.

"We thought that it was important as the family of 'King' Eric Gibson to update the public about what's happening next weekend. 'King' Eric was one of those persons who was very instrumental in establishing regattas throughout the length and breadth of The Bahamas," said Minister Shane Gibson.

"This particular regatta is one that he started to work with before his death. Regattas are life lines to many of the communities in The Bahamas, and we have pledged since daddy's passing to carry on his legacy and ensure that regatta becomes the national sport of The Bahamas. We're going to do all that we could in organizing and raising of funds for these various regattas."

So far, a total of 18 sloops have confirmed attendance at the C-Class regatta next weekend. Bowleg said hopefully they could expand to facilitate the 'A' and 'B' classes in the future.

"For now, the whole idea is to get the C-Class boats coming back year after year, and then to build on that number," he said. "The number is continuing to grow, so that's a good thing. Nothing much happens in Rock Sound, but this is the main event, so we're hopeful that this could provide a boost to the local economy."

Minister Gibson is encouraging Bahamians, particularly descendents of Eleuthera, to support the event next weekend.

"We want to encourage all of the descendants of Eleuthera, particularly South Eleuthera, to come down and give the regatta your full support. Also, we encourage all of the boat owners and sailors from the various classes to come down and join in on the festivities. We look forward to widespread support throughout The Bahamas," said the minister.

"King" Eric's other son Eric Gibson Jr. said that there will be a lot of on-shore activities for the attendees at the regatta. He said that it will be an event for the entire family, and also encourages Bahamians from all walks of life to support the event.

"It is a great pleasure to see that the Rock Sound Association is holding this regatta in honor of my father. We want to say thank you for this honor," he said. "'King' Eric would be very happy to know that his name was associated with such a great event. It was a festive event last year. My father has roots in Savannah Sound, Eleuthera, so the island of Eleuthera was very dear to his heart. We just want to encourage persons to come down and have a good time."

The "King" Eric All for One Regatta is still set for the Majority Day holiday weekend in the waters of Montagu Bay. Minister Shane Gibson said that they have to raise nearly $200,000 for that particular regatta.

Sheldon Longley, Guardian Sports Editor

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