The 2008 South Caicos Regatta will be held this year from May 22nd- 25 th at the Regatta Village with plenty of exciting events plus the much anticipated performance by international reggae artist Mr. Vegas.

Mr. Vegas who has visited the Turks and Caicos Islands twice before is best known for his up-tempo dancehall style with creative dances which has made songs like ´Hot Wuk´ and ´Do You know´ hits with the local public.

Public Relations Officer of the organizing committee, Didi Hanchell is extremely excited about the vent which has the distinction of being the oldest national festival in the TCI. ¨That weekend will offer more than just Mr. Vegas and other DJ´s we had added several cultural events which make up our history and pride of the Big South.¨

Also this year will be the popular Miss Regatta pageant which will see six girls vying for the coveted title and well as a little Miss Regatta pageant.

Other events include an: Airport welcome party, float parade, boat captains party, junkanoo jump up, sail and power boat races, greasy pole contest, may pole plaiting, donkey races, tug-o-war, bouncing castles, face painting, marbles, hula hoops, hop scotch and a basketball and softball games.

Also making a welcomed return will Mr. Bill Clare making what he is sure will be his last famous dive from the dock after being coaxed out of retirement.

It has been recorded that on February 25th 1966 Her majesty the Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Prince Phillip visited South Caicos arriving from Grand Turk on board the HMS Britannia arriving at 2:15 pm and departed at 4 pm .

It was the first and most impressive Royal visit, and many of those present thought afterwards that the “SAIL PAST—SALUTE” of the local sloops and the relaxed atmosphere of the Donkey Race, during which the Duke awarded Bill Clare a special prize for his demonstration on his donkey “Dickie” were the highlights of the day.

The people in South Caicos decided that they would try and remember this Royal Event and though of no better way that holding an “Annual Regatta.

Also performing this year will be the Caribbean Music Farm band featuring South Caicos ' own Tiffany Thomas.

“I think this year will be one of the best as we welcome home several of our residents who have moved to the other islands and countries. South Caicos has a strong family connection and many people use the regatta as a family reunion event, we are all excited,” said Hanchell.