CANADIAN HAND OF FRIENDSHIP EXTENDED TO JAMAICA

Member of Parliament signs international declaration to join ancient order of friendship

- Global Clipper Race unites cultures around the world

PORT ANTONIO, JAMAICA – 21 MAY 2010: An ancient international order dating back over four centuries is being commemorated by Canadian crew members in the Clipper 09-10 Round the World Yacht Race in Jamaica this week.

Cape Breton Island - Nova Scotia’s Masterpiece is taking a special scroll 35,000 miles around the world. The ‘Commemoration of Friendship’ marks over 400 years of the extension of friendship offered by Grand Chief Membertou and First Nation inhabitants to visitors to their shores, and the creation of the ‘Order du Bon Temps’ (Order of Good Cheer) with the first French arrivals in 1604.

The scroll is being countersigned by international city leaders at ports of call on the Clipper Race and Member of Parliament Dr Donald Rhodd added his signature on Friday evening 21st May in a brief ceremony at Errol Flynn Marina, Port Antonio, Jamaica, during the Race 9 prize-giving ceremony.

Dr Rhodd said: “We in the Parish of Portland are very happy and very grateful that you have visited our shores. Your competition is well renowned. We are very humbled that this prestigious event has come to our shores. Our people in general and tourism in particular have been the beneficiaries of your short stay with us. I hope the warmth and hospitality here have helped to strengthen the bonds of friendship amongst our peoples and I’m sure you will return. We will welcome you again with open arms.

“Thank you for allowing us to participate in this historic event and we look forward to seeing you again and I wish you a safe journey as you continue in this competition.”

The scroll containing the commemorative wording has travelled around 30,000 miles so far and has been countersigned by leading international representatives at the ports of call on the race. The scroll is being carried on the Cape Breton Island yacht by Cape Bretoner round-the-world crew member Elisa Jenkins who presented Dr Rhodd with the scroll for signing, together with the yacht’s Skipper Jan Ridd.