A champagne bath started the celebration at the MacFarlane camp yesterday, even as the six-time Band of the Year winner hinted, as he did last year, that next year may be his last on the road.

MacFarlane's 2012 presentation, Sanctification...In Search Of, was yesterday announced the winner of the $300,000 first prize for Band of The Year in the large band category.

He said however, while he has continued for the love of Carnival, he is saddened to see that mas is still not being given its due.

MacFarlane said the small sum is not profitable, and though his camp has been able to stay afloat through the dedication of its investors, a newcomer trying to stay true to the mas will find it difficult.

"It's sad in a way that it's not being recognised," MacFarlane said, at his Rosalino Street, Woodbrook, Port of Spain, camp yesterday.

Thanking his players for their support, with many crossing the stage Monday and Tuesday, MacFarlane said the obvious lack of theatrics on the Savannah stage on Tuesday was a direct result of the frustration of the masqueraders.

"People were tired; they left," MacFarlane said.

He said players who were in their costumes since early morning found themselves waiting until nightfall to cross the stage, and some who were supposed to perform simply couldn't make it.

The continued lack of preparation every year, he said, may very well lead to his decision to pack up MacFarlane Mas.

Nevertheless, MacFarlane did not commit to a planned retirement. Asked what his offering next year might bring, he said, "It will be something joyous next year; just in case it's my last."

MacFarlane's Band of the Year wins: 2007: India—The Story of Boyie 2008: Earth—Cries of Despair 2009: Africa—Her People, Her Glory, Her Tears 2010: Resurrection—The Mas 2011: Humanity—Circle of Life 2012: Sanctification—In Search of