A COLLISSION between two speedboats during the Lake Mainstay Regatta yesterday has left Orin Monty Belle of Bartica dead. As a result of the accident all water events, including speedboat races, paddling and swimming were called off yesterday during the 12th Annual Lake Mainstay Resort Regatta The accident happened at about 11:30 hrs during the first speedboat race which was for  the 90hp category. Belle was driving speedboat, “Iron Charlie” which collided with another speedboat “316” driven by Dave Young. It was when they had completed the first lap of the race and were negotiating a turn during the second lap Belle’s boat collided with the other one.
The collision caused Belle’s speedboat to flip in the air. Consequently, Belle received serious injuries to the body, head, arms and his right leg and fingers almost severed.
After the accident, Belle was taken to the Suddie Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries and after other speedboat racers received the news, many of them began pulling out of the races and then a decision was taken to call off all the water events.
In honour of Belle, Director of Lake Mainstay Resort, Mr. Wilfred Jagnarine told the patrons yesterday that a decision was taken to suspend all the water events since it was the first time they had a fatal accident at the Lake Mainstay Resort.
He said that it was a sad day and expressed condolences to the Belles, Barticians as well as other speedboat racers yesterday afternoon.
However, Lake Mainstay Resort Regatta and Stage Show was still on as many patrons refused to leave despite the tragic death of the Bartician yesterday.
The event yesterday morning started with prayers followed by remarks by the acting Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Irfaan Ali who told the large gathering that Lake Mainstay Resort is a prime tourist attraction spot and in the next three years the resort will become a major tourist destination since they have partnered with the Director, Mr. Wilfred Jagnarine and will lend support.
Ali also made a monetary donation on behalf of his Ministry to the 12th Lake Mainstay Resort Annual Regatta through a cheque presented to Mr. Jagnarine.