Sports Minister Charles Griffith has expressed pleasure at the progress of the Barbados Bodybuilding Federation, stressing the need for Barbados to reclaim its dominance in the sport, at both regional and international levels.

Speaking at the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex during the launch of the Roger Boyce Classic and the IFBB Pro World Cup, Mr. Griffith said bodybuilding has long been a pillar of excellence in Barbados, with icons like Darcy Beckles, Earl Maynard, and Roger Boyce setting high standards.

The Minister emphasised the importance of nurturing young talent through early exposure. “The only way the sport will continue to grow is if it’s moved into the primary schools and communities,” he stated.

Mr. Griffith commended Erin Promotion and the IFBB for their continued efforts to develop and expand the sport locally and internationally.

“The fact that an entity is putting on a competition in its third year that has moved from 35 to over 40 countries is a clear example that they are expanding, and the product is extremely strong,” he noted.

With over 250 athletes expected to compete in May, Minister Griffith said the event showcases the island’s capacity for sports tourism and reinforces the value of strategic planning.

He also pledged the support of his Ministry, noting that community centres under the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment would be made available to the sport to help reignite interest at the grassroots level. “If you have a wide, wide base, then those diamonds in the rough will shine and move to the top,” he said. 

He also encouraged organisers to remain focused, despite any distractions, asserting “if we deviate and allow a few lawless people to distract us from our purpose, then we are doing our young people a disservice

Mr. Griffith also voiced strong support for the junior programme set to launch next year, saying it would help develop future champions and instill discipline in the youth. (PR/GIS)

Article by David Harris

Kraigg Brathwaite has stepped down as the captain of the West Indies Test team, his resignation was announced yesterday morning at Cricket West Indies (CWI) quarterly press conference. According to CWI, Brathwaite indicated his intention to step down from the captaincy at the end of the West Indies tour to Pakistan earlier this year.

The right-handed opening batsman has bow out three months ahead of the West Indies’ next assignment; a three-match Test series against Australia which bowls off at Kensington Oval on June,25. This series marks the beginning of a new International Cricket Council (ICC) Test Championship cycle, Brathwaite will play his 100^th Test match during the series.

 Brathwaite, 32,  was appointed captain in March, 2021; during his tenure the West Indies defeated Bangladesh 2-0 in tough conditions during the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Asian continent, were victorious against England at home in 2022, secured a thrill win on Australian soil for the first time in 27 years in 2024. 

Earlier this year, Brathwaite captained the West Indies to a landmark victory in Pakistan levelling the two-match Test series with a victory that ended a 34-year drought in that country. He the West Indies in 39 Tests, winning 10 and losing 22.

CWI expressed its gratitude to Brathwaite for his contribution during for his leadership of the team.

“Kraigg Brathwaite has been an outstanding leader for our Test team, guiding the squad with discipline, resilience, and a deep the game. His contributions have been invaluable, and under his leadership, we have witnessed historic moments that will be remembered for years to come”, director of cricket Miles Bascombe said.

Meanwhile, captain of the One Day International (ODI) side Shai Hope has replaced Rovman Powell as the captain of the T20I team.

CWI the decision to removed Powell from the leadership of the side was taken after advice from head coach Darren Sammy.  

The Commonwealth Society of Barbados has again partnered with the Barbados Secondary Schools Athletics Championships to present the “RCS 150 Trophy”, this year.

President of Barbados, Her Excellency, The Most Honourable Dame Sandra Mason, who is patron and lifelong member of the organisation, as well as an advocate for youth and sports, will present the trophy today, Friday, March 28, during the closing ceremony of the athletics event at the Usain Bolt Sports Complex.

The “RCS 150 Trophy” is awarded to the school team found to be exemplifying the values of the Commonwealth, namely sportsmanship, teamwork, equity, and fair play, in addition to achieving consistent performance during the championships. It symbolises unity, excellence, and camaraderie among the nation’s student athletes.

In addition to the trophy, each athlete participating in the championships will be provided with branded paraphernalia. The Commonwealth Society of Barbados is currently celebrating its 40th Anniversary as a charitable organisation. 

It continues to support sports and acknowledges the importance of physical activity in reinforcing and fostering mutual understanding and cooperation among the youth and the wider community. (PR/GIS)