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Captain Irving Receives the Keys to the City of Mo’bay

August 5, 2007

The Full Story

Thousands from western Jamaica converged on Sam Sharpe Square in Montego Bay, on (August 4) to participate in the civic reception, which was held in honour of Jamaican-born pilot Captain Barrington Irving Jr., the first black and youngest aviator to fly solo around the world.
The 23 year old Captain Irving flew around the world in a 97 days. On his arrival in Montego Bay, the young pilot was met by Custos of St. James, Clarence Nelson, Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Noel Donaldson, officials from the Montego Bay business community, the Jamaica Tourist Board, and a host of well wishers from across the city.
He was showered with several accolades and a citation from the St. James Parish Council, and presented with the Keys to the City of Montego Bay by Mayor Donaldson.
In his address, Mayor Donaldson said that the young man who overcame the challenges and accomplished his dreams, has brought honour not only to himself but also to Jamaica.
“At a time when there are so many negatives surrounding us in the world, it is really of great import that we have an occasion such as this. We can really take a step back and recognize that no matter how difficult the challenges in life are, if you are determined, if you are prepared to persevere, to work hard, if you have a dream, if you have a vision, you should never ever hesitate from pursuing that dream, because today before us we have living testimony as to what you can accomplish by hard work and through perseverance,” Mayor Donaldson stated.
He pointed out that Captain Irving’s ambition was driven by a desire to combat the negativity that he had experienced growing up in his community.
“Today I feel honoured and proud that I will have the opportunity to present you Captain Barrington Irving Jr. with the keys of the City of Montego Bay. God bless you Barrington and May God continue to guide your steps. We are indeed truly proud of you,” the Mayor told the young pilot..
In her greetings, Director General in the Ministry of Tourism, Entertainment and Culture, Carole Guntley said that when Captain Irving decided to fly around the world, he was following a deep Jamaican tradition.
“It comes as no surprise that Captain Irving is focused on creating history that is part of the genius of Jamaica we do not aim low. That is why in sports, in academia and in so many fields of endeavour, we punch well above our perceived global weight.
We are particularly proud of you not only for setting a new global standard, but also for stepping up the plate of leadership. You have committed yourself to applying your own career to uplift other young Jamaicans, inspiring them to operate at a higher plane- whether literally or figuratively,” she said.

Last Updated: August 5, 2007

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