Barbados & FIG Collaborate To Advance Gymnastics Development

Government has reaffirmed its commitment to placing gymnastics on a full developmental path, with the support of the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) and the Barbados Amateur Gymnastics Association (BAGA).

This assurance came from Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment, Charles Griffith, following talks with FIG President, Morinari Watanabe, at the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex over the weekend.

The discussions coincided with the staging of the Trident Classic by the Barbados Amateur Gymnastics Association, at the Wildey Gymnasium.

Mr. Griffith shared that Barbados was pursuing comprehensive technical assistance to boost all aspects of the sport.

“We are looking for a full developmental process starting with the coaches because that is required, but it should also include our judges and officials. Ideally, we would welcome a trainer to Barbados for a period to help develop local capacity,” he said.

He added that talent identification and consistent training are critical, and proposed that close to two dozen athletes be earmarked to lead Barbados’ efforts at the regional and international levels.

FIG President Watanabe responded positively, pledging to dispatch at least one coach to assist in the development of gymnastics on the island. He also encouraged the region to set clear timelines for achieving Olympic-level participation.

“I believe Barbados can be the hub for gymnastics in the Caribbean, and we will provide the necessary technical support,” Mr. Watanabe stated.

Minister Griffith echoed this sentiment, affirming that the Government was working towards providing a permanent home for gymnastics within a new multi-disciplinary facility. 

The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including Japan’s Chief-of-Mission, Nakae Arata; President of the Barbados Olympic Association, Sandra Osborne; Director of the National Sports Council, Neil Murrell; Barbados’ Ambassador to CARICOM, David Comissiong; and BAGA President, Sheldene Pinder. (PR/GIS)

Caption: Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment, Charles Griffith, shakes hands with FIG President, Morinari Watanabe, following talks at the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex over the weekend