Ladner Pioneer May Days dates back all the way to 1896, but this year, for the first time, two boys had a chance to head the Royal Court.
A random draw took place at a party Tuesday evening at the Ladner Community Centre to select either a May Queen or King as well as princesses or princes.
Having won earlier draws to represent their schools, it was once again a Grade 6 girl that won the title, but organizer Missy Coghill is excited about the competition having opened up to include boys, saying the fair will eventually have its first May King.
“We wanted to make sure it was very inclusive for everyone. It’s a fun event that should be open to everyone,” she said.
Saying she hopes more boys will think about entering the draws at their schools, Coghill noted it’s not the first time a boy was in the Royal Court as the competition has been open, but perhaps not widely known, to both in the last few years. A boy wanted the chance to be May King about 10 years ago and was allowed to be in the Royal Court, although he didn’t win the draw to become May King. A few boys have entered their school draws in recent years but didn’t make it to the Royal Court.
Representing English Bluff Elementary, Hayden Zepeda is one of the boys in this year’s Royal Court.
“I just thought it would be a lot of fun. It’s something fun to do,” he told the Optimist Tuesday evening.
Caleb Burda is the other boy in the Royal Court.
Royal Court member Hannah Cox, representing Holly Elementary, also said she thinks it’s a great idea boys are entering, saying it’s something that shouldn’t be for girls only anymore.
Her dad Richard said, “I think it’s a great idea, we’re in 2019 after all. It’s time to give everyone a shot to represent Ladner on the float.”
Calista Child, representing Devon Gardens Elementary, also said it’s time for more boys to be in the Royal Court and that everyone should be included.
Organizer Kelly Coghill and May Days chair Jennifer Scott agreed it’s exciting to see a change in the tradition by having boys in the Royal Court, adding they hope more will enter.
Onoria Sanchez is this year’s May Queen with Lynneah Dunn and Rachel Peters serving as princesses.
Packed full of rides, games, music and activities, Ladner Pioneer May Days takes place Friday to Sunday at Memorial Park.
The traditional crowning of the May Queen and May Pole Dance take place Sunday in the park following the parade that will include the Royal Court float.
For more information, visit ladnermaydays.com.
