Victoria Cooper takes Couva calypso crown

Singing a calypso which took potshots at Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, Victoria Cooper was crowned Senior Calypso Monarch of Couva Carnival before a large crowd at the Couva car park on Friday night. Displaying polished stage presentation as she delivered her number I Distance Myself, Cooper even mimicked the PM with her dancing skills, to the delight of the enthusiastic audience. She will receive a cash prize of $6,000 for her popular victory.

Last year’s champion, Amrika Mutroo, singing Wake Up, Parents, put up a gallant defence but just fell short, placing second, and taking a prize of $3,500. Third place went to Kenson “Ninja” Neptune, singing “No Respect for Culture”. He won $2,000.   In the Junior Monarch race, tinymite Aaron Duncan cantered to an overwhelming victory with a stellar performance, singing Kaiso Alive.  Dressed in a resplendent red suit, Aaron was an obvious from his first note. He earned $4000 for his victory. Second place went to Melina Smith, singing “Why?” taking $2,500. Zakiya Cuffie placed third, with It’s Up to You, winning $1,000.  The bumper show was superbly emceed by Wilton “Flex” Griffith, who ushered in the extempo competition in grand style with his own offerings. Winner was Felix “Dr. Zhivago” Scott, who edged out Terry “D Masso” Marcelle in the final shoot-out.