Videos: 2011 Police Gymkhana Races
The Police Gymkhana was held on Saturday [Oct.1] on the police sports field at Prospect. The day featured cycling races for various age groups including team relays, slowest rider races and ‘pop-a-wheelie’ contests; as well as cycling vendors, police motorbike displays, fun castles and more.
Some young people and their parents arrived before 10am to get an early start to the festivities. Food and soft drinks were provided for the participants and volunteers, while helmets and bicycles were also supplied for those youngsters who wanted to compete but did not have the necessary equipment. Police officers donated their time to both organize and participate in the event.
The annual event was founded in 1969 and resurrected last year after a long hiatus. The event was open to all pedal cycle riders in primary and middle school, with the concept behind the day to allow youngsters of all ages to participate in bicycle races within a safe environment and foster positive interactions with police officers.
It wasn’t just young people out racing, as Governor Sir Richard Gozney, Bermuda Regiment Commanding Officer Lt. Col. Brian Gonsalves, Chief Fire Officer Vincent Hollinsid, Commissioner of Police Michael DeSilva, Assistant Police Commissioner David Mirfield and Prison Commissioner Lt. Col. Eddie Lamb all battled to see who would claim victory at the “Big Boys Race”.
The gymkhana kicked off Police Week 2011; the upcoming events are listed below:
Tuesday, 4th October
- Police Displays and Seniors Tea – Police Headquarters, Police Field at 12:00 p.m.
Wednesday, 5th October
- Commissioner for the Day, Police Headquarters from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Beat the Retreat to be held at Kings Square, St. George’s at 8:00 p.m.
Thursday, 6th October
- Sports Day at Police Field starting at 9:00 a.m. and social at Prospect Police Recreation Club from 6 p.m.
Friday, 7th October
- Official opening of Hamilton Police Station at 10.00 a.m. & Open House at the police stations and Marine Unit
- Memorial Ceremony (which commemorates those who lost their lives whilst serving the Bermuda Police Service) 4.00 p.m. at the Military Cemetery followed by a BBQ at the Prospect Police Recreation Club for retired officers.
Saturday, 8th October
- Police Ball at Fairmont Hamilton Princess. Gazebo Room for cocktails at 6:00p.m. and dinner at 7.00 p.m.
Commissioner of Police Michael DeSilva:
Pop-a-Wheelie Challenge:
Children’s Bike Races:
Mascot Race:
Combo Race:
