And if you go to the game, you understand why. The banter, the rivalry, the fun. And most important the camps.

Cup Match camps or plots are designated spots scattered around the cricket club, this year in Somerset, that are purchased by plot holders year after year. These camps start at eight by eight and increase to triple the size, depending on how many people the holder wishes to entertain.

Many camp holders have had their designated spot for years, some even decades and look forward to hosting their friends and family during this special two day holiday.

If this is your first year hosting a camp and you’re a bit nervous like I was in my first year, I’ve got you covered.

My advice is to start your preparations in advance. It doesn’t matter if your camp is small or large, it will need to be kitted out unless you just want to sit in an empty box.

At a minimum, you will need carpet/artificial grass for the floor to make it more comfortable, mesh screening to have privacy of sorts as there will likely be a camp on either side of you, a tarpaulin that can be used as protection for the ceiling of the camp (especially if there is a camp on top of you because drinks can spill) and as shade when the sun starts to set (depending on what side of the field you are on), zip ties, rope, a large cooler, etc.

If your camp is on the larger side, you likely will need to build out a bar and install pallets to have at least two levels for your guests to be able to see the game unobstructed. I have found over the years that Gorham’s is the best place to get all your materials for your camp and the sales associates are very helpful.

While I’ve hosted my camp for a number of years, I reached out to people who’ve had camps for even longer to get the best advice to pass on to you.

Jarreau Hayward, Chairman of Building and Grounds at St. George’s Cricket Club says: “Good people equals good times. You want to be prepared for the weather. Think it through – it may rain, it may be sweltering. Have contingencies for both like fans and tarps. Build layers in the camp so that the seating goes far. A higher tier at the back, a lower tier in the front.”

He continued: “Organize food and drinks because it’s better to have too much than too little. Bring multiple coolers and segregate the food from the ice for the drinks. Build a bar that’s practical and functional and also doubles as storage.”

Mr Hayward’s final piece of advice is this: “Pace yourself. Cup Match is a marathon. Don’t go hard with the drinks. Stay cool and take a nap or two.”

Kristin White and her husband Dueane Dill host a camp in St George’s and their advice is to make your camp special.

“Our camp is a reflection of our love for the holiday – from displaying quotes about emancipation, to our photo board that has camp visitors take and display polaroids, to our ‘Sweet Freedom’ camp sign designed by artist Shanna Hollis. So of course you want to have a space that’s welcoming, but ultimately, your camp should feel special to YOU. Also, get the most comfortable chairs you can find.”

Bethea Pearman has co-hosted a camp in Somerset for 25 years with Kina and George Cann. Her advice is to host people who get along well.

“Make sure to have people who get along well together and do not mind sharing in the expenses along with the setting up and breaking down. Cup Match is quite costly when you have a camp.  It can easily cost $250.00 and upwards per person.

“Also, rather than bringing a whole lot of food it is easier to buy food at Cup Match.  It makes for less work.  Take your chairs and coolers to your camp the evening before Cup Match so that you are not carrying so much stuff in on the day of the match.  There is security on the grounds all night so your chairs, coolers and other belongings are pretty safe.”

Asked about must-haves for a fun camp, Ms Pearman said: “People who are friendly and get along well with each other. You also must have a bar with alcoholic drinks, water, other beverages, ice and the necessary utensils for a bar.  A table for snacks, cups, plates and napkins etc. Comfortable chairs, trash bags, a couple of tables and plenty of snacks.  Music, you must have some music. Basically anything that you would take on a picnic except a bathing suit.”

Michelle Wilkinson hosts a camp at both clubs and her advice is to surround yourself with people you like.

“Find reliable people to be in your camp that are willing to pay their portion. That’s the main thing. And people who can deal with for two days. People you know how they act when they drink.

“Other than the people in the camp, setting up the camp is a lot of work with the pallets, flooring, the privacy screens around the camp, the liquor and so on. It’s wonderful but it’s a lot of work and you’ll need help breaking down on the Friday night. Having a camp is wonderful but there’s a lot to do.”

Cup Match Camp Checklist:

• Tarpaulin
• Chairs
• Zip ties
• Rope
• Cooler
• Ice
• Drinks (alcoholic and non alcoholic)
• Snacks/food
• Privacy screening
• Pallets
• Music (optional)
• Trash bags
• Napkins
• Cups
• Small table

The post Tips for Hosting An Amazing Cup Match Camp appeared first on RG Magazines.

by Nadia Laws 

Nearly half of Bermuda’s young people admit to having their first alcoholic beverage before age 18.

While this may seem harmless enough, it’s actually a big concern, according to the Department of National Drug Control. 

Kimwana Eve, the Community Development Coordinator, said: “We know from research that those who start drinking and smoking at an early age are far more likely to use harder drugs such as cocaine and heroin, which have the propensity for addiction. One of our department’s missions in drug prevention, is to prevent substance use among young people before it starts. 

“If they can hold off until at least the legal age of 18 or preferably until age 25, when the rational part of the brain is fully developed, then their chances of becoming addicted as an adult are slim.” 

Alcohol is very accessible in Bermuda, especially during holiday periods as the population is in full celebration mode. This poses a huge challenge for the department in its efforts to deter underage drinking. 

“We know what adults do, good or bad, children are always following our example,” Mrs Eve said. “That’s why we encourage parents to not consume a lot of alcohol around their children and to be mindful about where they are storing their alcoholic beverages. We tell parents to keep these drinks out of arm’s reach of children and teenagers, so not in front of the fridge or at the top of a cooler where a 15-year-old may go to grab a drink.” 

The department also encourages adults to drink responsibly and in moderation. 

Instead of having five or six drinks, one after the other, with the goal of getting drunk, people should learn to pace themselves. The golden rule when it comes to drinking is simple: no more than one alcoholic beverage per hour. 

“Once the alcohol is in your bloodstream there’s nothing you can do, it just has to make its way out on its own,” Mrs Eve said. “That’s why anyone who consumes several drinks in an hour will quickly find themselves over the legal alcohol limit and mustn’t ever get behind the wheel of a car or bike where they can cause harm to themselves or others.”

Drinking alcohol at the peak of summer can also increase a person’s chances of becoming dehydrated, which can be quite serious. If you’re planning on drinking over the Cup Match holiday, it’s wise to drink plenty of water or an electrolyte replacement solution. 

Also, make sure to keep an eye on your drink and who is pouring it, she warns. “Don’t leave your cup exposed or unattended,” Mrs Eve said. The department does hear of isolated instances where drinks get spiked, which is why partygoers should be aware of exactly what they’re consuming.  

Just like with everything in life, Mrs Eve says moderation is key. For anyone over 18, planning to drink during the Cup Match long weekend, do so responsibly. “We believe if people take proper precautions beforehand and act responsibly, they can have an even better time over Cup Match, without the hangover or other harmful side-effects.” 

This article was originally published in the 2019 edition of the RG Cup Match supplement.

The post Under the influence appeared first on RG Magazines.

Getting to St George’s Cricket Club can be a feat in itself, so staying off the road and using the water to get to the East End
during the two-day cricket festival is worth considering. Once parking fills up at Mullet Bay Playground, which is the closest parking to the Cricket Club, there are a few options around St George’s including Penno’s Wharf (parking available on Thursday only) and Market Wharf. But it does mean about a 10-minute walk to the cricket grounds.

In addition to the bus, Sea Express will be running ferries to St George’s over the two-day holiday. The schedule wasn’t made available to the public before our print deadline, however, for more details on routes and running times over the long holiday weekend, call the main ferry terminal at 295-4506 or visit www.marineandports.bm. 

Another option is to get together a group and rent a charter boat to get to the game. In this case, you can arrange to be dropped off at a dock near the cricket grounds. The UberVida is running a Cup Match Cruise leaving from Front Street at 10am on the second day of Cup Match (Friday, August 2), but tickets, $150 per person, almost always sell out. The price includes open bar, food and DJs as well as pick up and drop off at a dock near the game. To book, visit www.ubervida.net. 

This article was originally published in the 2019 edition of the RG Cup Match supplement.

The post Best ways to get to and from the field appeared first on RG Magazines.

Did you know that when a large group of people are in a small geographical area, all at one time, it can significantly slow down your cellphone data network? 

It happens during every big social event on our shores, including Cup Match, but interestingly enough isn’t specific to Bermuda. 

“No matter where you are, in Canada or the U.S., if too many people gather in a tiny area it can cause network congestion,” explained Donn Foggo, the marketing manager at Digicel. “What we do for events like Cup Match and anywhere we expect hundreds or thousands of people, is we make provisions to enhance our service.” 

In order to help you capture all the selfies you want over the holiday and stay in contact with friends and family, Mr Foggo said LTE was people’s best bet. 

“Our LTE network is on par with the rest of North America and is considered a fully capable network,” he explained. “Just last year, we won a Speedtest Award presented by Ookla, for the fastest mobile network in Bermuda.” 

If you have a smart phone, there’s more good news. 

In the event LTE isn’t working well, you’ll be automatically switched over to 3G when it comes time to send out texts or make important calls. 

“While there isn’t much people can do to speed up their data service, as a country we have come a long way when it comes to technology and work hard to ensure network congestion happens less and less. 

“We know people want to upload pictures in real time to social media and contact friends over the holiday when their favourite bowler gets a wicket, so we make as many provisions as possible beforehand to ensure our service is of the best quality.” 

You can rest assured, Mr Foggo said, no matter where you are for the Cup Match holiday, emergency lines will always work when you need it.

This article was originally published in the 2019 edition of the RG Cup Match supplement.

The post ‘Can You Hear Me Now?’ appeared first on RG Magazines.

by Shantia Seymour 

As cups of Swizzle are poured, team rivalry brews and ‘Jam Bermuda’ plays over the loudspeaker, every Bermudian knows what time of year it is. Cup Match is easily one of the Island’s favourite holidays – bringing people of all stripes together to celebrate our traditions and culture. Locals make it their duty, as with every big event on the social calendar, to showcase their own unique style. It doesn’t matter if you’re from St. George’s or Somerset, Bermudians know what it means to dress to impress.

Cup Match is the best time to have fun with fashion and explore more creative styles – from prints to bright colours that are easy to match with just about anything. Elevate your wardrobe with daring must-haves, statement pieces and timeless staples. As summertime is host to so many exciting events, dressing the part is a crucial component of the experience. 

There is no doubt that although Cup Match is one holiday comprised of two days of fun, each day is different. The first day, Emancipation Day, kicks off the cricket game and is the time most people have summer parties, beach or boat days. This is the perfect occasion to have a relaxed afternoon out with your family and friends – a casual look would do just fine.

The second day, Somers Day, is the day everyone heads to the field to watch the game and of course, show off their outfits. The amount of prints and colours that fill one place is unmatched. Although each day has two different vibes, the energy remains the same. Here are some tips for you when deciding what to wear for the two-day festivities: 

Shop Local: 

You’re a Bermudian, going to a Bermudian event to take part in Bermudian traditions, so why not buy from a Bermudian? Not only do you get a bespoke outfit, but you can also take pride in the fact you’ve supported a fellow native. There’s no better way to spread joy in a community, especially during the holidays, then to invest in your own. 

Summer Aesthetics:

Be expressive when selecting your event attire. Now, I’m not telling you to arrive completely decked out in your team colours, although that certainly works for some. Try, instead, to embrace the island vibes around you through fashion. Everything in Bermuda, from architecture to nature, has a way of influencing a certain feeling. Experiment with pastels, earth tones and even mixed prints. 

Comfort is Key:  

Making your way around the field through endless camps and thousands of people can be a challenge. When deciding on your outfit for the day, keep it simple. Wear shoes that are comfortable and which you are prepared to walk around in all day. The sun has no mercy, so do choose breathable clothing that can withstand the rays. 

There is no doubt that although Cup Match is one holiday comprised of two days of fun, each day is different.

This article was originally published in the 2019 edition of the RG Cup Match supplement.

The post Fashion Guidelines for the game appeared first on RG Magazines.

Say the words “Cup Match” to a Bermudian and the first thing that comes to mind (or possibly a close second to cricket) is food. Indeed, the origins of the holiday were picnics where communities came together to celebrate the anniversary of the abolition of slavery, with friendly cricket matches being the highlight of the day’s entertainment. 

As the excitement for the two-day holiday builds across the Island, so does the anticipation of the delectable treats that await at the cricket field – where family-run stalls offer traditional dishes, made to secret recipes that have been passed down the generations. So just what are the top fan favourites to enjoy as you soak up the atmosphere of these unique festivities? 

SHARK HASH: 

“Oh my goodness shark hash is by far my favourite! It’s so rare for me to find at any other time and expensive because of all the preparation that goes into making it. So it’s always my special Cup Match treat; Cup Match time I go straight to the field to get my yearly fix. I love the spice of it.”
– Shann Griffin, 33.

MUSSEL PIE: 

“My four-year-old daughter Mia is a huge mussel pie fan! It’s our favourite thing to eat together. But we don’t share, she gets her very own pie and usually finishes most of it because she loves it so much. She likes when there are veggies in there and the creamy sauce with the sweet pastry.”
– Stephen White, 51.

CONCH FRITTERS: 

“I love all the traditional Bermudian fish dishes, but conch fritters are definitely one of the best. Although the conchs in Bermuda waters are protected now, it is still a staple of our cuisine, and the folks who make the fritters at Cup Match know how to cook them exactly right: perfect golden-brown nuggets of salty deliciousness! You don’t just eat them straight, get some tartar sauce and Tabasco sauce on there and trust me, as I walk around at the game if I started out with six, I only get to eat two of them myself because everyone grabs one!”
– Nhuri Bashir, 35.

HOPPIN’ JOHN: 

“Hoppin’ John [a special kind of peas and rice] is just perfect for a picnic at the game because it won’t spoil quickly in the heat for one thing, and can make plenty to feed a larger group. My family always has that [at Cup Match]. The flavours from the bacon and chorizo, and fresh thyme, all mixed together with the rice and black eye peas cooked in vegetable broth… mm-mmhm, it tastes well!”
– Sandra Furbert, 64.

This article was originally published in the 2019 edition of the RG Cup Match supplement.

The post Fan Fare- What’s your favourite Cup Match dish? appeared first on RG Magazines.

by Jessie Moniz Hardy

Valerie Dill can only think of one Cup Match she’s missed in the last half a century. Last year her husband, former Somerset Cup Match player, and footballer, Carlton “Pepe” Dill wasn’t well, so they didn’t go. But that’s it, rain or shine, they’ve been there both days of Cup Match from sunup to sundown.

The Dills usually share their Cup Match spot with around 13 friends and family, including their three daughters, their grandchildren and other family members. They’re almost all diehard Somerset fans, with the exception of the Dill’s daughter, Angela Edwards, who is a proud St George’s fan. “There’s lots of good-natured teasing about that,” said Mrs Dill, 73. “We have a great deal of fun.”

Back when Mrs Dill started going, the set up was pretty basic –  folding chairs and umbrellas. Things are a little more sophisticated today with paid spots reserved months in advance. Forget the folding chairs, you can now order bleachers three tiers high. “I think we old-timers tend to stick close to the ground,” she laughed. 

Their spot is usually reserved under the name ‘Ruth Riley’, after a good friend who passed away in 2014. “She would always call in January and say it’s time to come to the club and get your spot for Cup Match,” Mrs Dill said. “All her people were sports people.”

Ms Dill said the clubs have a system for assigning spots.“The people that have always been on the list – they offer their spots back to them,” she said. “If you don’t want it then they have a wait list of people looking to get in. They do a good job of managing stuff like that, but a lot of expenses have come to the club due to things like security. These are things we didn’t have to consider years ago.”

Keeping the group fed and hydrated for the two days of Cup Match is a big job, so the Dills have a rota. Some family members are on duty to prepare food for the first day, and others do it for the second day. “It’s just like a big picnic,” Mrs Dill said. “We just do what we have to do and have a good time.”

They always put flags up around their camp.“Somerset did a contest one year to get people to decorate their areas,” Mrs Dill said. “If you won, the next time Cup Match was in Somerset, you would get a free spot.”

Another Cup Match regular, Winston “Coe” Trott said what you get when you reserve seating today is a lot more clearly defined than it was years ago.  Now you’re told exactly where your plot is and how big it is. Previously, things were more lax. You’d just go to the field the night before and rope off your area.

The result wasn’t always good. “People used to fight over it,” said Mr Trott, 74. “There was always a little squabble, that was my spot or that wasn’t my spot.”

Mr Trott favours a spot with a good view of the wicket and a nice breeze blowing through. Back in the day, he played for Somerset at Cup Match 13 years in a row starting in 1968. In 1979, he was part of the team that helped Somerset win the cup for the first time in 20 years. Now, he just goes to watch with his wife Marva, their two sons and grandchildren and other family members. “We look forward to being together those two days,” he said. 

He said watching is a lot more relaxing than playing. “As a player it was intense,” he said. “You were trying to win. With the family you are more relaxed. You are able to see friends and family and hopefully it’s a good game and doesn’t rain.”

Another Cup Match goer, Alicia Zuill has been a lifelong St George’s fan. Her father, the late Warrington “Soup” Zuill was a well-known Cup Match enthusiast and historian. For his funeral, he requested that people forgo the traditional black ensembles and wear their Cup Match colours instead. 

The 62-year-old said going to the game, year after year, friendships often spring up between families. “We always see the Foggos and the Minors from St George’s,” she said. “There are a group of people from Somerset who always sit together.  Then you have the former Cup Match players that go with their families.” She said there are even marriages that come out of Cup Match. “A lot of things happen on Cup Match,” Ms Zuill laughed.

Her family always get to the game early enough to catch the first ball. “We’d be there from 7.30am to 7.30pm,” she said.

She remembered how her father, a taxi driver, would often invite tourists into the Zuill Cup Match area.“My father would sit there all day and explain the game to them,” she said. “It was like one big happy family party.”

Mr Zuill passed away in September 2008. There is a Cup Match good sportsmanship award handed out in his honour. Ms Zuill hoped that the rising cost of reserved seating didn’t deter some long time Cup Match supporters, particularly seniors. “They are the ones who paved the way,” she said.

Her family always divides the cost of the spot between the number of adults in it, usually around 20. They also divvy up the work involved in catering to the large crowd. Each person brings a dish to eat: cassava pie, potato salad or chicken, or beverages. “My family will go up the night before to set up tables, coolers, and decorate the spot,” Ms Zuill said. “We put a carpet down. My brother in law, the late Kingsley “George” Hassell, at the end of each game, he and my nephew used to lay off in the middle of the field with fruit and wine.”

Today her brother, Hoyt, is also a cricketer and is the organiser of the Masters Twenty20 Cricket League. Mrs Dill doesn’t see the Cup Match tradition fading out anytime soon. “It is fun, family time with the children,” she said. “You can tell them about Cup Match and what it means. It is very important that the tradition continues on.”

This article was originally published in the 2019 edition of the RG Cup Match supplement.

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by Robyn Bardgett 

Somerset “Super Fan”
RANDY HORTON

Randy Horton, a third-generation captain of the Somerset Cricket team, comes from a long line of avid sportsmen. His grandfather, Warren Simmons, and uncle, Lloyd Simmons, were both captains of the West End team before him.  As a player, commentator and genuine lover of the game, Mr Horton is a true Somerset Super Fan!

Favourite Cup Match Memory?

Definitely winning Cup Match in 1979. Prior to that, Somerset hadn’t had the Cup for 20 years. I remember the game was at Somerset Cricket Club and as the day went on it became more evident we were going to win. People came from all over the Island to celebrate. When you looked up at the stands, you couldn’t see any concrete, only people. We had an amazing team – and winning that Cup Match was the best moment I’ve had. 

Most memorable moment on the field?

That would have to be my first Cup Match in 1963. I was 18 and very nervous. I went to bat and was out for one bowl. I was clean bowled by Kenny Paul. It’s not a very positive memory, but it’s certainly a moment that I remember. 

Who do you consider the best player?

There are three people whose talent I most admire. Firstly, my coach and mentor Alma “Champ” Hunt. For me, as a young boy coming up, he was Mr Cricket. Then there’s Sheridan Raynor. I’m a left-handed batsman, so I always wanted to be like him. Lastly, bowler Eugene “Buck” Woods.

What makes you a  Cup Match Super Fan?

First of all, I love the game! I love cricket and love what goes into developing and having success in a cricket game. The preparations required and the time it takes understanding and studying your opponent. When you go on the field, you take advantage of the strengths and weaknesses of the batsman. You have to consider the conditions of the pitch and how that impacts the game. All of those things make cricket very exciting to me. 

What sets Somerset fans apart?

As a player, I just didn’t pay attention to the St George’s fans! The Somerset fans were always the exciting ones, and I liked it because the great fans were also great critics of the game. If things didn’t go right, they would let you know. I used to appreciate that, as well as how much people just loved the game and loved Somerset. You felt it as a player. They lifted you up, and you knew they were behind you. 

Best way to celebrate after the game?

Just being with friends and being able to share highlights of the game. That’s always fun. Everyone has a different point of view, so you learn from people as you talk to them.

St. Georges “Super Fan”
KENNY FOGGO

Born and raised in St George’s, Kenny Foggo always considered the St George’s Cricket Club (SGCC) his neighbourhood backyard. “I bleed blue and blue,” the cricket enthusiast said. Mr Foggo is best known for walking the field in past years with a giant team flag and his trademark cut-off denim shorts. Last year an accident claimed one of his legs, however, he plans to be back on the field this year – a die-hard St George’s Super Fan!

Favourite Cup Match Memory?

Cup Match 1977 – when Clay Smith won the Cup right back from Somerset after losing the year before. That was one of my best moments. Another happened in the late 1990s/early 2000s when Herbie Bascome was first introduced as a skipper. During the second innings defending 128, we bowled Somerset all out from under 128 to win the match. Those are my two favourite moments.

Most memorable moment on the field?

Any time when St George’s wins the match. Everyone gets on the field after the last wicket has dropped and the final runs have been hit. It’s even sweeter when we win the Cup back from Somerset. Retaining it when it’s already ours is never as exciting as winning it back from our opponents. 

Who do you consider the best player?

My favourite player of all time is Clay Smith. He’s my best friend, but definitely one of the greatest players of all time too. Respect also has to be given where it’s due to Janeiro Tucker, who is Mr Cup Match. I respect what he has done for the game of cricket.

What makes you a Cup Match Super Fan?

I try my best to carry on traditions from when I was younger. I’m always supporting my team no matter what players are picked to represent St George’s. Whether I’m happy with them or not, I show support. I don’t mind getting into arguments and discussions or having friendly banter, but you’ll never take the St George’s out of me. I’m always the guy with the biggest flag and the shortest shorts. Younger folks are always like, ‘Kenny retire them shorts’, but if I do that then my fans will be like: ‘Where are the shorts, dude?’. I don’t do it for the younger kids, I do it for my supporters. 

What sets St George’s fans apart?

The real St George’s fans have passion for our Club and for our team – regardless of whether it’s good or bad. The really passionate ones are like me – they have no red in their wardrobe! That’s a sin to have any sort of red in one’s wardrobe.

Best way to celebrate after the game?

It’s all a celebration – whether we have the Cup, don’t have the Cup, win the game, draw the game or lose the game. The biggest thing for me is focusing on the game and the meaning behind the holiday. To me, Cup Match is about the people. Where I sit, I have Somerset fans on one side of me, and St George’s fans on the other. These are people I only see at Cup Match, so the camaraderie and banter that goes on before, during and after the game, it’s all a part of the two days. On top of that, there’s nothing better than an ice cold Heineken. 

This article was originally published in the 2019 edition of the RG Cup Match supplement.

The post Cup Match “Super Fans” appeared first on RG Magazines.

by Nadia Laws

For the past eight years, Bermudian Andrew Males has found himself a passenger onboard the Uber Vida’s Cruise to Cup Match. The luxury vessel takes him from the heart of Hamilton to the centre of the game day action, in splendid style. 

Start

10:00am: The day starts with lots of anticipation and excitement as Andrew makes his way to the dock to begin the fun and festivities.  The Cruise to Cup Match is always sold out, so vessel staff must ensure those getting on board have a ticket. They try to make this on-boarding process as swift and pain-free as possible, so everyone can relax and have a great time.

10.30am: Once Andrew gets settled aboard, he enjoys a drink with friends at the open bar as the boat makes its way to the Cricket Club field in Somerset or St. George’s. He tries his best to take in the atmosphere, as Bermuda’s beautiful, turquoise waters and bustling maritime culture are on full display.  When journeying to Somerset it’s a 60-minute cruise, heading out around Dockyard and on to Mangrove Bay. However, the route to St. George’s is about 90 minutes and takes you down the North Shore.

12:00pm: By noon, the yacht passengers are finally at their destination. The best part is they’ve avoided all the stress and worry that people on land have to deal with. When you travel to Cup Match by boat there’s no need to find parking or deal with traffic. You arrive in style. The first thing Andrew does when he gets to the cricket club is pick up a Bermuda fish sandwich because that’s a huge part of the Cup Match tradition. He enjoys seeing so many friendly faces. In his view, that’s what the holiday is all about – community and camaraderie. 

1.30pm: After he has eaten his fill, Andrew tries to take in all the sights and sounds at the field. He normally grabs a cold drink and then heads to the Crown and Anchor tent to try his hand at a few games. This is one of his favourite parts of the afternoon. 

2:00pm: As a cricket fan, and former cricket player, Andrew makes sure to follow along with the game as much as possible during the afternoon. Telling by how it’s gone over the last decade or so, you usually know by around 3pm on the Friday which side is going to take home the cup. That makes it easy – as the Uber Vida usually heads back to town after giving people three or four hours at the field. You are there for an impactful period of time, but the day doesn’t drag on for too long, which is good too, Andrew said. 

3.30pm: By this time, people are returning to the boat and wrapping up the day with a little celebration on the way back into Hamilton. One thing Andrew loves about the Uber Vida is they take the scenic route back, and you get to enjoy the sights while listening to some of the Island’s hottest DJs playing in all their glory. There’s an energetic vibe on board for sure. The best part? You meet people from all walks of life who are just looking to have a great time and party responsibly.   

Finish the day

This article was originally published in the 2019 edition of the RG Cup Match supplement

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by Vejay Steede

Crown and Anchor is a beloved summertime tradition in Bermuda. With an estimated 2,000 patrons passing through the big white tent during the Cup Match holiday, the festive setup is home to 14 tables with various betting limits, and is always buzzing with excitement.

The Rules: 

The rules of the game are simple; you find a space at a table – if you can – and put as much cash as you feel comfortable risking on one of six squares. The table operator will place a marker on top of your cash to lock in your bet and, once all bets are in, the often boisterous operator will shake a cup and lower it onto the table. Now here’s the best bit: the operator will lift his cup to reveal three dice which, after having danced around inside the cup, have now settled to elect one of six winners.

Each dice features a crown, an anchor, a spade, a heart, a diamond, and a club. You would have put your money on a square with one of those six symbols on it earlier. If one of the three dice matches the symbol you bet on, you’ve just doubled your money, and feel great. If two of the dice match, you’ve tripled your money and you are ecstatic. If all three of the dice match, well, you probably scream and kiss somebody!

The Twists: 

The Crown and Anchor tent has been run by Funtyme Entertainment since 2011. Co-owner Craig Tyrell has described a few awesome twists that table operators throw in to crank the excitement up from time to time: “Occasionally a table may spice it up and roll two cups (six dice) or a special one dice that pays four times!” 

The Risks: 

Somerset supporter and avid Crown and Anchor player Vernika Symonds makes an important point when describing one of her favourite times from under the tent. “My best memory is walking away a winner instead of losing my daily gambling allowance.” It’s important to have an allowance, based on one’s disposable income, and to stick to it. No one should be leaving the tent wondering how they’re going to make it to their next paycheck. 

The Possible Rewards:  

Cavon Steede, another co-owner at Funtyme, recalled seeing a fan play and win thousands of dollars in a matter of minutes. It was the biggest payout he’d ever seen, with the player putting down $5,000 and doubling his money. “Probably the craziest thing I’ve seen at a table was a guy bet $1,000, and he tripled his money. He let the $4,000 ride [leaving it on the table to tempt fate for another round], and he tripled his money again, so he left with $16,000!” Mr Steede said. These instances most likely happened on a ‘High-roller’ table, but there are tables where beginners can learn the craft by risking no more than $2 per bet, so don’t let those potentially nerve-wracking stories scare you from giving it a try.

Suffice it to say, everyone has a Crown and Anchor story. It’s a wildly intoxicating game, full of drama, showmanship, and tremendous excitement. It’s a must do experience for anyone looking to enjoy the full flavour of Cup Match in Bermuda. And just like Mr Tyrell said: ‘You’ll never win if you don’t play.’

This article was originally published in the 2019 edition of the RG Cup Match supplement.

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