Tasty Treasures Heritage Relay Inc. Successfully Hosts Inaugural “White River Leg”

Tasty Treasures Heritage Relay Inc. proudly announces the successful staging of its inaugural Tasty Treasures Heritage Relay – The White River Leg, held on August 1, 2026, in Delices, Dominica, under the theme “Honoring the Past, Racing to the Future.”

Founder of Tasty Treasures Heritage Relay Inc., Mrs. Shirlyn James Graham, together with the Steering Committee, extends sincere gratitude to all individuals, organizations, businesses, sponsors, volunteers, participants, and supporters who believed in the vision and contributed to bringing this inaugural event to life.

The event brought together athletes, bakers, community members, supporters, and partners for a unique celebration of Dominica’s rich natural, cultural, agricultural, and culinary heritage.

The Heritage Relay was conceptualized not simply as a sporting event, but as a platform to promote health and wellness, local agriculture, culinary arts, tourism, education, environmental awareness, community development, entrepreneurship, and national pride.

Celebrating the Heritage of Delices

The relay journey highlighted several historic and natural features within the Delices

community, providing participants and spectators with an opportunity to experience the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage while engaging in healthy physical activity.

A major highlight of the event was the Traditional Bread-Baking Challenge, which showcased the creativity and culinary skills of local bakers. Participants prepared bread using banana leaves, local agricultural produce, and traditional wood-fire cooking methods, celebrating local ingredients, traditional practices, and authentic Dominican flavours.

The event also featured an Essay Competition for secondary school students of Delices,

encouraging young people to reflect on the role of Tasty Treasures in promoting and preserving local culinary culture.

Distinguished Guests and Support

Tasty Treasures Heritage Relay Inc. was honoured by the presence and support of distinguished guests and representatives who joined in celebrating the inaugural event and its vision for community development, heritage preservation, sport, and wellness.

The organization extends heartfelt appreciation to all sponsors, partners, volunteers, officials, athletes, bakers, schools, community members, and supporters whose contributions were instrumental to the success of the event.

Giving Back to the Community

Through the generosity of sponsors and supporters, the Heritage Relay was able to contribute EC$1,500.00, along with other donations in kind, to community causes and organizations, including:

 House of Hope, Delices

 Chances at Jimmit

 St. Martin Secondary School

These contributions formed part of the organization's commitment to creating opportunities in sport, education, entrepreneurship, community development, and cultural appreciation.

More Than a Race

The Tasty Treasures Heritage Relay is more than a race. It is a celebration of who we are as a people and a deliberate effort to connect our communities with our history, food, agriculture, culture, natural environment, and shared heritage.

Mrs. Shirlyn James Graham stated: “We wanted to create an experience that honours where we came from while inspiring the next generation to move forward. The Heritage Relay is about bringing people together, promoting healthy lifestyles, celebrating our local talents and resources, and creating opportunities for our communities.”

Special Recognition and Honours

Ms. Gloria Joseph, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Small Business.

Ms. Francisca Joseph, former Chief Adult Education Officer.

Their distinguished contributions to community development, education, empowerment, entrepreneurship, heritage preservation, and the advancement of opportunities for individuals and communities. Their service reflects the core values and mandate of the Tasty Treasures Heritage Relay, under the theme, “Honoring the Past, Racing to the Future.”

Inaugural Event Winners

Essay Competition – Sponsored by Do It Centre and Jays Books Store

 Junior Section: Ms. Shirkia Etienne

 Senior Section: Ms. Amayah Colaire

Creative Team – Sponsored by the Ministry of Small Business

Archipelago Team

Discipline Team – Sponsored by FLOW

Pioneer Club

Fastest Runner – Sponsored by Auto Trade

Kervin Leatham – Pioneer Club

Overall Relay Winner – EC$6,000 Cash Prize Sponsored by Archipelago Wine & Spirits

Archipelago Team

Looking Ahead to 2027

Building on the success of the inaugural event, Tasty Treasures Heritage Relay Inc. is pleased to announce that July 31, 2027 has been identified as the date for the next Tasty Treasures Heritage Relay.

As preparations begin for the 2027 event, Tasty Treasures Heritage Relay Inc. welcomes

continued collaboration with Government ministries and agencies, businesses, community organizations, athletes, bakers, schools, sponsors, farmers, and individuals who share the vision of celebrating Dominica’s heritage while promoting a healthier, stronger, more resilient, and united nation.

The organization looks forward to expanding the Heritage Relay experience and creating even greater opportunities for sport, agriculture, culinary arts, education, tourism, entrepreneurship, environmental sustainability, and community development.

Tasty Treasures Heritage Relay Inc. “Honoring the Past, Racing to the Future.”