Barbados Orchid Society members (from left) Annice Dalrymple, Angela Birkett, Michael Waithe, president; Michael Marshall, Carolyn Parris-Boyce and Michael Birkett in front of their display. (GP)

THE BARBADOS ORCHID SOCIETY was in perfect harmony at the 19th World Orchid Conference and Show in the United States.

The team has been awarded the highest honours for any entrant in the region, coming away with Best In Class and Best In Show prizes with their arrangements, under the theme In Perfect Harmony.

What has made this achievement even more outstanding was that Barbados had not participated in the show for over two decades because it usually took place in Europe or Asia.

"It was a must for us to attend the show this year as it has been over a decade since it was last in this hemisphere," said society president Michael Marshall, who won Best In Class for his bloom a Terete Vanda, V. Mevr.L.Velthius.

The triennial show, dubbed the "Olympics of orchid shows" took place in Miami, Florida, from January 22 to 27 under the theme Orchids – Nature's Masterpiece.

It showcased the finest orchids from across the world with more than 100 exhibitors from 19 countries – including Thailand, Taiwan
and the Philippines – the largest gathering of the world's orchid fraternity in decades.

"The Barbados Orchid Society brought pride to the nation by achieving 15 ribbon prizes as well as a Best In Class and Best In Show trophies for an Arides Hybrid Chtra Susan Griffis grown by Michael Waithe," said Marshall.

Waithe was elated with his achievement in his first international show. He said he had hoped to win a ribbon but did not expect to do so well.

Michael Birkett, who owns "several thousand" orchids, submitted the largest collection of blooms for the Barbados display.

He said the show took place all around the world so it was difficult for Barbados to participate each time because of the expense and the shelf life of the cut flowers. He said the last time he participated was when the show was last in the United States, in 1984.

The society's display was a tabletop entry designed by Carolyn Parris-Boyce and Angela Birkett entitled Orchids In Harmony.

"I am elated and proud of the quality, world-class orchids grown by the society members, which has resulted in us achieving these prestigious awards.

"It is overwhelming to know we have the quality plants and ability to achieve these prizes," said Marshall.

"This will certainly go a long way in the future development and expansion of orchid enthusiasm in Barbados."

The society members entered 34 blooms for appraisal and were awarded 15 ribbons – six first places, four second places and five third places. (CA)