Anne Lennard emerged as the toast of the town at the 2024 Ralph T O’Neal Hat Parade, clinching the prestigious title of Best Overall Hat in a display of creativity and style that captured the essence of the annual event.
Commencing on Lee Road in front of the renowned Chez Bamboo restaurant just after 4:00 p.m., the parade wove its way to the Walters Recreational Park on Millionaire Road, where it seamlessly merged with the Valley Sound Lions Club annual Easter Egg Hunt festivities.
Amidst an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation, contestants eagerly awaited the moment of judgment as they lined up according to their respective categories. However, it was Lennard who stole the spotlight, claiming the coveted title of Best Overall Hat and the grand prize of $1000. Lennard’s hat, a masterpiece of creativity, featured past and present queens from the Virgin Gorda Easter Pageant, showcasing her unique vision and artistic flair.
In an exclusive interview, Lennard expressed her joy at returning to the parade after a two-year hiatus and her gratitude for the recognition bestowed upon her creation.
The parade also celebrated other exceptional hat designs, with Isabella Frazer winning Best Embodiment of the Spirit of Easter Festival Hat, Eve Kneipp claiming Best Kids Hat, Dr. Amber Wheatley Buckell awarded Best Recycled Material Hat, Patricia Robinson honoured for Most Creative Hat, Eva Foxx recognized for Funniest Hat, and Latoya George acclaimed for Prettiest Hat.
Organizer Esther O’Neal-Wheatley, daughter of the late Ralph T O’Neal, highlighted the collaborative efforts between the hat parade committee, the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee, and the BVI Tourist Board. She underscored the aim of marketing the parade to attract both residents and visitors, enhancing the appeal of Virgin Gorda Easter festivities.
District Representative and Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent Wheatley, also graced the occasion, emphasizing the economic benefits that the Easter Festival brings to the sister island.