St. John’s Antigua- Eleven bands, two winners and another judging controversy.
The 2011 Independence Schools Steel Band Competition saw a keenly contested battle for top honours and bragging rights, but the event was marred by logistical snags and a controversial declaration of St Joseph’s Academy Rhythm Masters as the top band among the seven competing secondary schools.
The furore erupted prior to the announcement of winners when judges and the statistician argued over the final placement of the bands. Well-placed sources indicated that St Joseph’s Academy and Princess Margaret School were tied for the lead but there was a dispute over how the tie was broken and who was authorised to do so.
As midnight approached and the bands and spectators awaited the announcement, judges were seen arguing with the statistician and other officials over the placement of winners.
The adjudication controversy was not the only problem for Thursday night’s show. Despite the presence of all the bands, judges and other key players at the scheduled start time of 6:30 pm, the competition did not get under way until an hour later. Meanwhile, police were kept busy outside as fights broke out outside the YASCO venue.
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