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Low turnout for first National Men's Day, but event set to become annual

Together: Members of OC Foundation and Phenomenal Women at the National Men's Day event. OC Foundation members, Colwyn Burchall and Tulani Bulford, both pictured above, delivered speeches on fatherhood issues.

National Men's Day in Bermuda, which was held this weekend saw a very small turnout, but the hosts said it was first class.

Close to 100 people turned out to the event, which kicked off at 10 a.m. on Saturday morning and continued until 7 p.m.

Male guest speakers, entertainment by men and Gombey performances were the highlight of the day's line up which concluded a Bike-A-Thon and a benediction from Pastor Earnest Peets.

Phenomenal Women's President, Margaret Giloth said of the event's turnout, which didn't quite meet the goal of the planned 300 to 500 attendees: "It reflects the denial in the community to the social ills and the lack of collaboration from groups in the community.

"If each church and social group had 20-50 people turn up we would have had a great crowd.

"But I believe the leaders of the organisations that I approached didn't gain the concept and understanding of this first-time event and that was reflected in the turnout."

She added that she didn't focus on the numbers because there was a much bigger message that was intended and those who did attend, went away with something of great value.

"Every presenter contributed a quality presentation to the understanding of male issues.

Ms. Giloth was excited about the Bike-A-Thon, which was a 10-minute ride around the city, led by the Bermuda Long Riders and escorted by the Police.

"It was so much fun, especially when we stopped traffic and went through the traffic lights.

"The ride was to draw awareness and gain commandment from members of the public to ride responsibly and to memorialise those lost in traffic accidents," she said.

Despite the turnout, Phenomenal Women plan on making Saturday's event an annual one.

"We are already planning next year's event. It is a long-term initiative that starts now and we are very proud of the presentation of our organisation. It was first class."