Rampersad, Edwards crowned Junior King, Queen

Derek Achong

Antonio Rampersad and J’Nai Edwards have been crowned this year’s Junior Carnival King and Queen. 

Rampersad and Edwards each topped 14 strong competitors last night to secure their titles at the Queen’s Park Savannah. 

It was the first title for Edwards and the second for Rampersad, who managed to defend the first crown he won last year. 

Rampersad’s presentation “Jungle Fever” and Edwards’ “Medicine Woman- D Folk Healer” both predominantly featured varying hues of green. 

Both were able to effortlessly portray their huge costumes across the stage in front of the judges at the Grand Stand. 

Rampersad’s sister Annalee managed to place third in the Junior Carnival Queen competition in her first final since she took up her family’s large individual masquerader tradition. 

Her costume was designed and constructed by her grandmother Gloria Dallsingh, who won multiple San Fernando Carnival Queen titles in the past but chose to sit out the national competition this year. 

Rampersad’s parents Marlon and Laura competed in the Senior Carnival King and Queen semifinals. 

Rampersad was initially lost for words when he was interviewed moments after his father, who designed his costume, crossed the stage. 

“I am honestly speechless…I am not shocked but I really worked hard to do this,” Rampersad said. 

He said that he hoped to again defend his crown and earn a hat trick of titles in next year’s competition.