THE GATHERING of folks from all walks of life at the Enterprise Beach from as early as five in the morning brought this venue, more popularly known as Miami Beach, to life even before the rising sun could cast its light on the white, sandy shore.
The attractive beach, just to the east of the world-famous town of Oistins and its Bay Garden, has used its appeal to draw these early morning risers into its grasp.
Men and women walking up and down the beach at various speeds and in various styles as they looked at the wide expanse of the ocean, painted a picture of communal exercise.
By the time the sun had shown its face in the east, a group of over two dozen had assembled and had placed themselves in a circle under the watchful eyes of exercise instructor Carlton Bourne.
A little away from the sandy walking strip on the shoreline, exercise routines to accompanying music caught the attention of others engaging in their own pastimes.
Jamaican-born Daisy Levy, who resided in London, England, for 42 years, has been living here for the past six years. She was among the members of the exercise group, and was willing to express her pleasure in being a member.
“We are like a family” she said, adding “I’m a cancer patient. The exercise helps.”
Pointing to her left arm, the 70-year-old quipped: “I could not use this hand.”
She informed us that she would encourage other cancer patients to experience the exercise programme.
“The instructor is excellent; he cares about us!” she exclaimed.
Levy’s friend Mauva Harris, who was also a resident of London for many years and has been living here for over ten years, was also highly complimentary of the exercise routines at the Enterprise Beach.
Among those taking a stroll were regulars Gordon Brooks and Stephen Brathwaite, also known for their contribution to the Nation Publishing Company in various capacities. Their smiles indicated that they were throwing their stresses away for the time being.
Jacqueline Harewood, a caregiver, was happy to report that she was a regular walker on the beach and would normally arrive about 5:30 a.m. and walk until about 7:30 a.m..
Jeff Layne, cricket enthusiast and cricketer, was also engaged in his regular walk routine but still spared a moment to chat. Of course, cricket had to squeeze itself into the conversation with the need to abolish the Duckworth/Lewis rules being the dominant topic.
Regular sea bather Tony Graham spoke on behalf of the regular sea bathers. He said he was a bather there from the time the beach opened over 30 years ago.
Meanwhile, about twenty yards offshore was cricket icon Sir Everton Weekes who, at 80-plus years, still maintains his sea-induced freshness.
For Mervin “SJah” Caddle, exercise took the form of a rigorous paddle ball game with anyone who was inclined. An extended rally with Stanfield Taylor made his day as “SJah” told us he had been playing paddle ball for over 20 years and had trained many players.
Among those preferring to have a gentle swim was retired Bishop of Croydon, England, Sir Wilfred Wood. Having retired in 2002,
Sir Wilfred returned to his homeland to live at nearby Pegwell Gardens. His sister Thelma Thomas, a resident of Enterprise Gardens, was also there.
Sir Wilfred, commenting on the action on Enterprise Beach, noted: “We enjoy friends and fellowship. This is a pleasant way to begin the day. Thank God for his many blessings!”
The folk at Enterprise Beach seemed to be following this advice.
