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Chapter

15

o t s t r o p s f g o n n i o d i n t a u t b s i r r e t d n C Uon y t e i c o s n a e Caribb S

port has been a dominant feature of Caribbean society since colonisation. It has contributed to educational advancement, recreational fulfilment, health and fitness well-being and economic development in the region. Sport, as a building block for community and institutional social development, has been very significant in Caribbean communities because it shares a very real and purposeful role in the economic and social functions of a society.

The global commercialisation of sport and its ability to generate capital has been the most significant shift in the way Caribbean countries view sports in the 21st century. The modern world of cable and wireless technology along with pre-existing media has used sport as a channel for upholding capitalism, nationalism and culture. Through marketing campaigns, especially advertisements, live broadcasts of events, public service announcements and news media releases, sport is no longer a voluntary participatory activity but a function of the socio-economic machinery.

By the end of this chapter you should be able to: • Explain the contribution of sports in the Caribbean to economics, health/ fitness and education opportunities • Discuss sports as a feature of Caribbean identity and international recognition • Evaluate the contribution of sports to building discipline and morale • Appreciate the relevance of sport tourism as an added value to the traditional tourism product of the Caribbean

Sports The roles and function of sports in the Caribbean and globally have evolved over decades.

Historically, sporting activities were very primitive and usually a function of some form of ritual or rite of passage and sometimes even preparation for wars. Sporting activities were crude and, in many instances, violent. This was probably a primary reason for the exclusion of women from such social activities. Sport, then, was more a function of social development rather than a function of economic development.

The evolution of sports from a ritual to more socially inclusive and acceptable activities came about at the same time as the Industrial Revolution, the rise of capitalism and the spread of bureaucratic rationalism. Sports became structured with the introduction of rules, regulations and standards, all of which became democratised (fair play) and bureaucratised (managed by organisations) but, most significantly, sports became commercialised. The new structure of sport transformed its functions and contributions to society and professional sports were born.

Traditional sports in the Caribbean The history of sports in the Caribbean prior to colonisation has little if any documentation. It may be deduced that aspects of the lifestyle of Amerindians, such as fishing and hunting, can be classified as sports but not in the context of modern-day sports. Sport history in the Caribbean would therefore start with the establishment of European colonies as was previously discussed in other chapters. However, despite being colonies, many Caribbean countries were able to enter athletes as representatives and not necessarily as a subject of the governing European country. This began the nurturing of self-awareness and identity among Caribbean people.

Traditional sports such as track and field, football and cricket became cemented in Caribbean societies. While cricket is the oldest competitive sport in the English-speaking Caribbean, track and field is undoubtedly the sport of choice in the entire region. It is the most represented sport globally and the sport with the most outstanding Caribbean performers. Arthur Wint from Jamaica won the first Olympic gold medal for the Caribbean in 1948. Since then, the Caribbean has produced many great track athletes such as Donald Quarri from Jamaica, Alberto Juantoreno from Cuba,

Did you know?

Trinidad and Tobago was the smallest nation, both in size and population, to ever participate in a FIFA World Cup.

Felix Sanchez from the Dominican Republic, Hasely Crawford from Trinidad, and the world’s most recent sensation Usain Bolt from Jamaica. Caribbean women also excel in this area of sports, women such as Tonique Williams-Darling from The Bahamas, and Deon Hemmings, Veronica Campbell-Brown and Shelley-Ann Fraser Pryce all from Jamaica. Jamaica has produced many of the Caribbean’s top track and field athletes and is sometimes considered the leading track and field nation in the Caribbean.

Football is one of the most popular team sports in the Caribbean. It is played across the region with inter-regional competitions between Latin America and the Caribbean. But unlike cricket and track and field sports, the Caribbean has struggled to make its mark globally with top countries in this sport. However, football has enjoyed support and enthusiasm in the Caribbean where football governing bodies, led by the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF), have put effort into encouraging participation. Three Caribbean nations, Cuba, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, have made it to the FIFA World Cup. Cuba entered FIFA

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Chapter 15 Contribution of sports to Caribbean society

Usain Bolt Merlene Ottey Ato Bolden Veroncica Campbell Donald Quarry Shelley-Ann Fraser Pryce

Athletics

Football

Dwight Yorke Ricardo Gardner Ian Goodison Russell Latapy Emmanuel Sanon

Simon Forbes Elaine Davis Althea Byfield Kizzy Marfield Jaanelle Barker Anika La Roche

Anthony Nester Leah Martindale Danielle Beaubrun Aila Atkinson AndrewPhillips Janelle Atkinson

Netball

Swimming

Figure 15.1 Outstanding sports men and women from the Caribbean

in 1938 where they qualified by default. Jamaica was the first English-speaking Caribbean nation to qualify and play in the 1998 FIFA World Cup, followed by Trinidad and Tobago in 2006. Players from the two countries signed contracts to play with clubs in Europe. Among these were Ricardo Gardner of Jamaica and Dwight York of Trinidad.

There is a large discrepancy across the region in the development and success of different sports.

There are particular sports that are more identifiable with some countries and sub-regions than others. Other sports introduced early in the Caribbean, such as boxing and weightlifting, although not as popular as those mentioned previously, have gained much support. Boxing, for example, is a popular sport in Cuba and the Cubans have done well in the world’s boxing arenas. Weightlifting is also a traditional sport of the Caribbean. It was through this sport that Trinidad received its first Olympic medal in 1948 when Rodney Wilks was awarded a silver medal.

Cricket Cricket is one of the oldest sports to be played competitively in the Caribbean and for years has been the most popular. ‘Cricket lovely cricket’ has been a slogan used to express the passion and joy that Caribbean people have for the game and the official Caribbean team, the West Indies cricket team, popularly called the ‘Windies’. The West Indies team was once the best in the world, with the era 1970–90 the best years overall for the team. Added to its historic significance, cricket has played a vital role in the cultural expression and regional identity of Caribbean people. The sport

Did you know?

The 2007 Cricket World Cup was hosted in six Caribbean territories. The official song ‘the game of love and unity ’ by Jamaican Shaggy, Barbadian Rupee and Trindadian Fay-Ann Lyons was a true manifesto of Caribbean integration.

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Highlights in cricket YEAR

MILESTONE

OUTSTANDING PLAYERS

ASSOCIATED TERRITORY

1930

Beat England in British Guiana First West Indian double century by Clifford Roach First to take 5 wickets in an inning by Learie Constantine 5 for 87

Sir Learie Constantine George Headley Clifford Roach

Trinidad Jamaica Trinidad

1948

Era of the legendary ‘3 W’s’ said to be one of the best ‘middle order’ combinations of all times. Weeks scores 5 consecutive test centuries

Sir Clyde Walcott Sir Everton Weeks Sir Frank Worrel

Barbados Barbados Barbados

1950

First victory on England’s famous Lord’s cricket grounds. Sonny Ramadhin took 11 wickets and Alf Valentine 2. An embarrassing loss to England at their premier cricket ground

Sonny Ramadhin

Sir Everton Weeks

Trinidad and Tobago Trinidad and Tobago Barbados

Alf Valentine

1958

Garry Sobers 365 not out versus Pakistan in Jamaica sets a record Passes Len Hutton’s test record

Sir Garfield Sobers Sir Everton Weeks

Barbados Barbados

1959

Wes Hall gets the first West Indies ‘hat-trick’ against Pakistan in Pakistan

Wes Hall Sir Frank Worrel

Barbados Barbados

1975

West Indies first World Cup victory beating Australia

Clive Lloyd Gordon Greenidge

Guyana Barbados

1976

Michael Holding (14 wickets) and Viv Richards (1811 runs in that year) combination win in England

Michael Holding Sir Vivian Richards

Jamaica Antigua

1979

West Indies second World Cup victory over England

Clive Lloyd Collis King Desmond Haynes

Guyana Barbados Barbados

1984

5–0 win over England in England popularly referred to as the ‘black’ white-wash

Sir Viv Richards Desmond Haynes Larry Gomes

Antigua Barbados Jamaica

1986

Viv Richards scores the fastest test century ever off 56 balls

Sir Vivian Richards Larry Gomes Jeffrey Dujon

Antigua Trinidad and Tobago Jamaica

1993

7 for 1! Ambrose gets 7 wickets for 1 ball in Australia

Curtly Ambrose

Antigua

1994

Curtly Ambrose bowls out England for 45 taking 6 wickets for 24 runs, 8 in all. One of the most devastating in test cricket Brian Lara surpasses Sobers’ 1958 record to score 375 versus England

Curtly Ambrose Courtney Walsh Brian Lara

Antigua Jamaica Trinidad and Tobago

2000

Courtney Walsh breaks record with 435 and then ends his career in 2001 with 519 wickets, the highest ever

Courtney Walsh Curtly Ambrose

Jamaica Antigua

2004

Brian Lara breaks world record with 400 not out

Brian Lara Shivnarine Chanderpaul

Trinidad and Tobago Guyana

2007

The Caribbean hosts the World Cup for the first time Table 15.1

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Chapter 15 Contribution of sports to Caribbean society

has also played a major role in Caribbean integration, evident in team selection, competitions and overall Caribbean support. It is said that Caribbean unity is most evident during international cricket matches. The West Indies cricket team is a symbol of Caribbean unity and pride. This pride and joy is manifested in many Caribbean songs honouring the team, especially calypso.

Though introduced by the British in the early 1900s, Caribbean players brought to the sport a special style and skill that captured global fans. The British ‘gentleman’s’ game became a West Indian phenomenon. The West Indies team reached international status in 1928 and by 1930 won their first test match against England. The match that was played in the Caribbean featured cricket greats like George Headley, Clifford Roach and Learie Constantine.

The West Indies cricket team has brought fame and popularity to Caribbean sport.

1

a)

Discuss the benefits the region has had from the West Indies cricket team’s success.

b)

After reading more widely, explain why the ‘Rebel Tour’ tarnished the image of the team and the region.

2

‘Cricket is an integral part of the Caribbean’s history and heritage.’ Discuss the extent to which this statement is true.

3

Choose a local cricket club/team in your country.

4

a)

Find out when and why the club was formed.

b)

Evaluate the effect of the club on the ‘morale’ of the local people.

c)

How does this club help in finding local talent for professional cricket?

Activity 1

Research and analyse the socio-economic effects of the staging of Cricket World Cup in 2007 on the region. Use data and information from your own country to support your analysis.

Women in Sport Women in the Caribbean play most of the popular male sports like cricket and football, yet netball and hockey are the two most popular sports played by women at a competitive level throughout the Caribbean region and internationally. Netball is the more popular of the two and played in schools from primary to tertiary level throughout the region. Caribbean nations do very well at the world championships, with Jamaica being rated in the top ten for several years. In 2003, the World Netball Championship was held in the Caribbean in Kingston, Jamaica. The Jamaican team achieved third place in that championship. Like cricket, netball was introduced to the region by the British during colonisation and, also like cricket, Caribbean players have surpassed their former rulers by dominating the game.

Hockey is a competitive female sport in the Caribbean and players compete in regional and international championships in both junior and senior teams. Hockey is one of the sports that provides a conduit for collaboration between all Caribbean nations. Jamaica, Trinidad and Barbados are the leading teams in the English-speaking Caribbean. The major events for women’s hockey in the Caribbean are the Pan American Women’s Hockey Cup and the Commonwealth Games.

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Figure 15.2 Jamaican bobsleigh

The Development Of Non-traditional Sports When you think of sports in the Caribbean, cricket, football and track and field come to mind.

In Latin America and the Spanish-speaking Caribbean, sports such as baseball and basketball have national popularity equivalent to the popularity of cricket in the Commonwealth Caribbean.

Did you know?

The Caribbean has a regional swim event called the Caribbean Islands Swimming Championship (CISC). The event attracts swimmers from English, Spanish and French Caribbean islands.

Globalisation, as discussed in previous chapters, has affected the Caribbean in all aspects of life and the interest in developing non-traditional sports is becoming more evident in the region.

When the Jamaican bobsleigh team made their debut in the 1988 Winter Olympics in Alberta, Canada, the world was in amazement. The amazement was such that a movie was subsequently made (in 1993) about the event. Despite the absence of ice and snow, the prerequisites for winter sport, the team was able to compete effectively. In 1994, in the Norway Winter Olympics, the team were placed 14th, ahead of the USA, Russia and France (all developed countries from the colder north). The popular ‘push cart’ derby, a community sport in Jamaica, was never competed at any international event. The skills from this sport, however, were used in the development of the Jamaican bobsleigh team.

Other non-traditional sports that are growing fast in popularity and producing international competitors from the Caribbean include swimming, water-polo and golf. Watersports are growing in popularity and receiving funding and sponsorship similar to some of the traditional sports. Many educational institutions have a well-developed watersports programme and there are regional bodies governing watersports.

The development of swimming is important to Caribbean development because most Caribbean territories are islands. Surveys showed that over 50 per cent of Caribbean residents can’t swim.

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Programmes

Chapter 15 Contribution of sports to Caribbean society

Figure 15.3 A community poster advertising a swim programme

to get Caribbean students swimming are evident throughout the region. Swimming, however, is costly primarily because of the maintenance of pools and equipment to support safety and health. Throughout the Caribbean, non-profit organisations like Swim Jamaica are assisting the education system and sport industry by implementing swim programmes in communities.

Sport as an Income Earner The use of sport to generate wealth and contribute to long lasting direct and indirect professional careers as a model for economic and social development is a new direction for Caribbean economies competing in a global marketplace. Recent changes toward economic diversification from agricultural dependency (sugar and bananas) and the development of regional tourism have opened the way for the development of sport as a viable economic activity. Sporting activities make up a multi-billion dollar global industry and small island economies can benefit from this income.

Local and international sporting activities have the potential to directly and indirectly earn income (see Table 15.2 on page 266). From individual earnings in professional careers to advertising and television rights, sports in the Caribbean are earning money.

Wealth, however, can only be generated when capital investment is injected. Particularly necessary are: •

the construction of state-of-the-art internationally sized sporting stadiums and facilities

•

the construction of more local sport training centres and physical education colleges

•

development of research in sport management and sport medicine at regional universities

•

the formulation of government policies that monitor, enforce and adjudicate the processes of sports that will align with international laws

•

Did you know?

New stadiums were either built or completely renovated for the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup. Jamaica alone spent approximately US $80 million on the construction of new repairs to old stadiums.

the provision of government grants for sports in national budgets.

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Sports tourism Sports tourism is a new direction and product that the region is actively pursuing. Sports tourism enhances the tourism industry by widening and diversifying the attractions of the region. There are two types of sports tourist, those who visit the region as spectators and those who visit to play sport.

Huge events like cricket, football and athletics attract large crowds. The staging of the 2007 Cricket World Cup was a prime example of the development potential of sports tourism for the Caribbean. The advantage of sports tourism is that it can fill the gap that seasonality creates in the conventional tourism industry. The Caribbean is already one of the premier vacation spots in the western hemisphere and is home to some of the world’s top sports men and women; with the close proximity of North American markets, selling the region as a viable sporting destination is sensible.

Sporting enthusiasts can be big spenders and, as well as spending money on the sporting event of their choice, they also spend on food, memorabilia, travel and sightseeing.

Economic dimensions of sport RELATED INDUSTRY

ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES

Manufacturing

Clothing for teams and team support Footwear and equipment (bats, balls, stumps and so on) Printing: tickets, programmes, posters

Services

Sports medicine: pain therapy, injury management (on-field emergency, orthopaedic consultation, drug research and testing) Nutrition management: diet consultation, meal planning and preparation Biomechanics: specialised equipment and robotics Physiotherapy: physical therapy management in and out of play Leisure centres/gyms: weight training, aerobics Professionalisation: merchandising, product endorsement Management: technical, administrative, financial and coaching staff

Media coverage

Electronic: radio and television live coverage, news, documentary, marketing and promotion Sports magazines: marketing and promotion, news reports, team profiles, critique and evaluation

Sponsorship

Advertising Marketing: companies benefit from sponsorship by sports stars wearing their brand name or being spokesperson for the company. Cable and Wireless, Digicel and Pepsi International have been major sponsors at different times for the West Indies cricket team

Research and publication

Medical research, especially in improving physical limits and endurance and pain management Social sciences: economics, sociology and history of sport Magazine and biographies: archiving and documenting

Gambling

Horse racing: popular in the Caribbean. Government tax on dividends and large winnings provide revenue to GDP

Table 15.2

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Chapter 15 Contribution of sports to Caribbean society

The Caribbean Sea and its beautiful blue waters is the perfect location for watersports. Regattas, yachting, fishing tournaments, open sea swimming, jet-skiing and a plethora of beach activities are some of the activities that already take place in the Caribbean. With further investment in developing resources and marketing the region as a watersports site, the Caribbean could pull in billions of dollars in watersports tourism. Increased infrastructure for various sporting facilities when aligned with present tourism attractions would make the region the number one sports tourism destination in the world.

Conduct some research and then analyse the socio-economic impacts of the staging of the Cricket World Cup in 2007 on the region. Use data and information from your own country to support your analysis.

Activity 2

Case Study The potential of golf as a sports tourism product The Caribbean has numerous golf courses, especially on large hotel resort sites.

The rich and famous like to jet to the Caribbean and on their list of activities is the game of golf. Luxurious golf resorts like Sandy Lane in Barbados have hosted some of the world’s most famous people, many of whom chose the location for its golfing facilities. Golf is no longer an exclusive sport for the wealthy or ‘elite’ class but enjoys a rising number of players and fans. 2009 estimates put the number of golfers in the USA at about 29 million. That figure, when added to the numbers of fans who support the game, increases the income potential of the game. Golf is a popular sport for visitors in many Caribbean resorts, making it a viable attraction to be included in sports tourism.

Golf courses in the Caribbean have the potential to bring in billions of dollars in revenue. Jamaica, for example, has a capacity for 650,000 rounds of golf, which can be played at 13 golf clubs across the island annually but only a quarter of that capacity is currently contributing to the annual income potential of golf as a sports tourism product. When added to the rounds of golf available throughout the region in countries like Aruba, Barbados, Cayman and Trinidad and Tobago, the region is sitting on considerable potential wealth from golf. The region should collectively develop initiatives to increase the number of rounds played to raise the profile of golf in the Caribbean, increase the number of golf tourists and establish an economic base around golf. With so many rounds collectively available in the Caribbean, the region can easily be developed as a golf-friendly destination.

Developing golf, or any other sport for that matter, will include the creation of links with ground and air transportation, accommodation, culture, heritage attractions, entertainment and the craft industry among others.

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The development of golf as a subsector of sports tourism can generate income and facilitate economic development by way of: •

forging partnerships with the operators of private and public golf courses to upgrade the condition of all courses to internationally accepted standards

•

developing selected golf courses to world-class standards to host international competitions

•

facilitating the branding of local golf courses as uniquely Caribbean

•

staging an annual golf talent search nationally

•

working with tourism partners to develop a golf vacation package that combines golf with entertainment and other tourism activities

•

working with linkage industries such as manufacturing and craft to develop a line of golfrelated products such as Jamaica/Barbados-branded sportswear, craft items, rum and other memorabilia

•

training caddies in tourism skills so that they can interact with players while retaining their Caribbean authenticity.

Figure 15.4 Golf can provide a lot of employment

The Caribbean has the potential to earn billions in foreign exchange. However, some territories lack the organisational facility, and particularly capital, to inject the infrastructural development to facilitate full development of golf and other sports as international attractions. Investment in sports may also seem an unlikely priority when more pressing issues like poverty, the environment and human development are of real concern.

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Chapter 15 Contribution of sports to Caribbean society

Research Project ideas Make a trip to your nearest accessible international-sized golf course and research the following: 1

What is the total of local membership?

2

How many rounds does the course have?

3

How many international players use the club annually?

4

What does this club do to attract visitors?

5

What is the annual income for the club?

Health and Fitness Sports can help to improve the lives of individuals because playing sports promotes good health

Figure 15.5 Swimming contributes to upper body fitness and cardio-vascular health

and muscle fitness. Physical exercise not only helps the body and overall health but is proven to contribute to mental development in children and good mental health in adults. The report from the United Nations Inter-Agency Task Force on Sport for Development and Peace states that young people can benefit from physical activity as it contributes to developing healthy bones, efficient heart and lung function as well as improved motor skills and cognitive function. Physical fitness also helps psychological development and mental stability.

Exercise is also very important for adults and the aging population. Exercise helps to slow down the effects of aging and assists in the prevention and control of degenerative diseases like hypertension, heart disease and and diabetes which are on the rise in the Caribbean. These illnesses impact on the economy negatively because of high medical costs, reduced productivity hours and loss of life.

The importance of sport and fitness is therefore significant for sustainable growth and development.

The importance of fitness can be seen in everyday life in the Caribbean. From physical education (PE) on the school curriculum to the cultural weekend afternoon games of cricket and football, Caribbean adults and children are involved in various sports, many at a competitive level.

The contributions that sports can make to the health of Caribbean people, however, are dependent on various dynamics from territory to territory. This is because sporting activities alone may not lead directly to great health benefits because of other factors, such as diet and in particular the conditions under which the activities take place. Children playing cricket and football on hard, dusty and unprepared fields without proper gear can damage children’s health rather than improving it. Some Caribbean countries have high rates of poverty, which is evident in the infrastructure of community and school sporting facilities. Some communities and schools have sought the help of private corporations in assisting the development of sports through financial support and

Did you know?

Alphonso Cunningham was the only medalist from the English-speaking Caribbean at the 2012 Paralympic Games. He won gold in javelin.

infrastructural development.

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Sport and Education Over the past three decades, sport as an educational subject and area of research has become very prominent. Sports are making a contribution to Caribbean education in three major ways: as a field of study, as a co-curricular activity and as a means of accessing further education.

The field of Sports Studies comprises several disciplines that cover a wide area of teaching, research and the general development of sport-related issues. These specialist areas of Sports Studies include medicine, law, economics, psychology, education and management. The variety of specialisation in Sports Studies is more available in developed countries than in the Caribbean.

The GC Foster College of Physical Education and Sport, established in 1980 in Jamaica, was the first educational institution in the English-speaking Caribbean to be totally dedicated to the study of sport. The college offers certificates, diplomas and bachelor’s degrees in physical education and sport careers such as team management and professional coaching. Following the establishment of GC Foster College, the development of facilities and programmes for Sports Studies have increased throughout the Caribbean. Among Caribbean institutions offering world-class Sports Studies is the University of Technology in Jamaica. This institution offers the most diversified and state-of-the-art programmes in sports including postgraduate studies in Physical Education, Coaching and Sports Management. The University of the West Indies at St Augustine and Mona also offers science degrees in Sports Management. The increase in Sports Studies has facilitated strengthening of the sport industry in the region, created occupation and career opportunities, and has kept athletes who would have otherwise have migrated to developed countries in the region.

Sports in the curriculum Sports were traditionally experienced as extra-curricular in educational institutions with the underlying role being to boost the mind for learning (‘all work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy’),

Did you know?

Usain Bolt and Asafa Powel both trained at the sporting facilities of the University of Technology.

The university has some world-class technology in sports, especially for athletics.

270

while at the same time developing school ‘spirit’ in support for, and identity with, the institution.

However, there existed contradictions that those who excelled at extra-curricular sporting activity were sometimes not particularly intelligent or academically inclined and sporting talent was sometimes seen as a compensation for a lack of intelligence. So, while physical education existed to support physical and mental health, it was not considered a mental or intellectual gift. In addition to the intellectual contradictions, the lack of professional careers in sport highlighted another contradiction. Sport was not seen as a real occupation and, especially in the Caribbean where amateur sport in particular attracted little or no income, sport was relegated to recreation and not seen as a factor in income generation or economic development. Sport as an integrated subject in the mainstream curriculum, therefore, faced a major developmental challenge until recent years.

Under the restructuring of the Caribbean educational system, many territories have moved away from the historical education ideologies about sports, especially those that were associated with or developed out of colonisation. On the other hand, the importance placed on sports in schools is a legacy of colonial education, especially in the British Caribbean. It was actually in the ‘British’-type schools (which were carbon copies of British education, mostly established as

Chapter 15 Contribution of sports to Caribbean society

private or church schools) that sports were considered to aid discipline and ‘good’ character development. These schools were considered elite schools and the sports such as polo, tennis and horse racing considered elite sports. The contradictions arise because after slavery, when ‘free’ education became available for the freed slaves, the curriculum varied greatly. The sports played in government public schools were either different or grossly underfunded. Only cricket and athletics grew as popular sports among the poor. It was not until the mid 20th century that football became popular. In the overhaul of the education system of the 21st century, the importance of physical education as a co-curricular and teaching subject has been modernised and aligned with developments in developed countries. These include but are not limited to: •

the physical upgrade of sporting facilities in schools

•

enhanced teaching and learning resources

•

textbooks and examinations in physical education

•

increased use of educational technology

•

professional development for teachers

•

expanded transportation and meal programmes, especially for athletes

•

decentralisation of educational processes and resources.

The introduction of Physical Education as an examination subject at the CXC-CSEC level is one of the advanced steps towards developing professional sport throughout the Caribbean. The paradigm shift in teaching sport and physical education will help not just to strengthen the minds and bodies of Caribbean students, but also to expand the career choices that these students will have, which will further boost economic growth.

Conduct a class debate to support or oppose the proposition: ‘Sport in the Caribbean is more about competition than intellectual and economic development.’

Activity 3

Sport scholarships as an opportunity for higher education Many Caribbean students have been given educational opportunities to study in colleges and universities in North America and the United Kingdom. Sport scouts travel to Caribbean sporting events in search of talent. College sport is big business, especially in the USA and therefore having talented athletes is important. Scouts start looking for talent as early as secondary-age students but most are sought at the post-secondary age. Many of the athletes who are given sport scholarships to attend post-secondary institutions outside of the Caribbean may not have otherwise received opportunities within the region. Many recipients do not return to the Caribbean after finishing college, as little opportunity for employment exists for them. Some even become professionals in their field of sport and choose to represent their new country of residency in international sport, rather than the Caribbean. Others, like Patrick Ewing, have migrated at an early age from Jamaica and become naturalised US citizens. As a basketball talent who later became a Hall of Fame great, Ewing might not have had the opportunity for fame and economic wealth, had he stayed in Jamaica. England’s national football player, John Barnes, also migrated at an early age and represented England as no opportunity for global success in football as a Caribbean national

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existed. Another example is the national netball team of the USA, which is made up of 80 per cent Caribbean-born players, including the coach and team manager. Some players were playing for their respective Caribbean countries but switched allegiance for economic reasons. Nevertheless, some men and women with great talent, like Ato Boldon of Trinidad, and Veronica Campbell of Jamaica, have represented their respective countries after studying and training abroad.

New developments in commercial sport and amateur games within the Caribbean are making the industry more attractive and keeping valuable talent in the region. However, the Caribbean still lacks the tools to completely own and manage its international sporting stars. Economic analysis, new strategies and the modernisation of sport are three of the actions that must be taken to use sport as a developmental tool for regional growth through sports.

Figure 15.6 Usain Bolt

Sports as a Symbol of Caribbean Identity and International Recognition If there is anything that defines the Caribbean collectively or individually, it’s sports. Cricket defines us as a Caribbean region more than any other sport. As discussed earlier, the West Indies Cricket Team is one of the unifying forces among Caribbean people and is one of the early building blocks of Caribbean integration. The sport has also represented a sense of independence, from the colonial power hold of England especially, when the team won games against England in the preindependence and early post-independence eras. Cricket has somewhat lost its glory to sports like football and track and field. However, Caribbean people still support each other on the international front. When the Soca Warriors of Trinidad made their debut at the Football World Cup in 2006, the entire Caribbean supported them, as they did for the Reggie Boyz of Jamaica earlier in 1998. Usain Bolt had the entire Caribbean and the diaspora feeling proud and the sense of unity and Caribbean identity were strong, especially among the diaspora, when he broke two world records at the Beijing Olympics in 2008. The Jamaican colours became the Caribbean colours.

Sports can be as divisive as they are unifying when it comes to the Caribbean (or anywhere else in the world). Caribbean territories have a competitive spirit against each other. Just as in discussions about the Federation, sports can bring out feelings of insecurity and divisiveness in the region. In preparation for the Cricket World Cup in 2007, it was not easy for Caribbean territories all bidding for finals to be held in their particular island. Sport is the single most prominent activity that defines one group from another, no matter what political or social issues are present; during a major sporting event, all other issues take back stage, whether the focus on sport is in support of or in opposition against the sporting event. In 1998, when the Jamaican football team won the qualifying game to the World Cup, the then Prime Minister P.J. Patterson announced immediately at the games that the following day would be a national holiday. The euphoria expressed that day and the days that the team played in the World Cup were phenomenal. The sport unified Jamaicans and Caribbean people alike, forging a sense of national and regional identity.

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Chapter 15 Contribution of sports to Caribbean society

Figure 15.7 A spectator raises the Jamaican flag at the annual Penn Relays in Pennsylvania, USA

Euphoria and social identity together are features of all sporting events, especially on the international stage. The Penn Relays held in Philadelphia, USA is an annual track and field event at which many Caribbean secondary schools compete. The event draws Caribbean supporters from all over the Caribbean and the USA. The colours of Caribbean flags can be seen waving throughout the stadium but the most common is the Jamaican flag. Jamaican schools are strongly represented in numbers and outstanding performance. As discussed in previous chapters, many of the features that define individual Caribbean countries are embraced throughout the region as Caribbean. Like reggae music, Jamaican sports icons – namely track and field stars – are universally recognised.

Jamaican track and field world-record holder, Usain Bolt, has gained international fame, giving further recognition to the region and Jamaica. He has received numerous world awards acknowledging him as an internationally acclaimed athlete including the IAAF World and Track and Field Athlete of the year, Laureus World Sportsman of the Year and BBC Overseas Sports Personality of the Year, along with various international media interviews. In the month of the 2008 Olympic Games, the Empire State Building in New York City was lit on one occasion with the colours of the Jamaican flag, acknowledging the achievements of Usain Bolt and the Jamaican athletics team. Photos of Usain Bolt have been on billboards in Times Square (New York City), London, Beijing and several other cities around the world.

The winning streak of the Jamaican teams at Beijing had international experts curious about the culture and features of Jamaica that contributed to the exceptional performances of its athletes.

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The Olympics as a Feature of Regional and International Recognition The Olympics is one of the premier events of the global sporting industry, featuring the largest array of competitive events. The International Olympic Committee along with its affiliates (NOCs) and International Sports Federations facilitates the development of international standards in sports such as: •

value and ethics

•

sports education

•

fair play

•

regular celebration and competition.

The main function of the Olympic governing body is to use sport as a means of uniting the world in peaceful competition. At the end of each final performance of an event the flag of the winning country is raised and the national anthem of that country is played throughout the arena in a ceremonial presentation of medals. This feature of the Olympic Games heralds a heightened spirit of national pride and international recognition for the country or countries being honoured. Caribbean countries, usually small island states, have less chance of standing on the ceremonial podium given their small population and economies. There are some sporting events that are not entered

by Caribbean islands as the cost of training competitors and developing a programme is not an economic option. Caribbean countries may have fewer competitors to take part, given the small populations. It is therefore an expression of huge pride for the region when a Caribbean country wins medals. Given the medal count per ratio of population, it is clear that the region as a whole does very well.

Did you know?

For a brief two weeks the people of the region put aside their insularity and cheered for each other’s athletes.

Many Caribbean people and journalists reflected on the potential of a ‘One Caribbean’ Olympic team.

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The Caribbean has been entering the Olympics since 1900, when only Cuba entered from the region. In 1924 Haiti entered, followed by Jamaica in 1948. Jamaica was the first English-speaking Caribbean country to enter and win a medal in the Olympics. Since 1900, the Caribbean region has won nearly 330 medals. Table 15.3 shows the history of the medal tally over the years.

The London 2012 Olympics brought much media attention to the region. Caribbean identity and pride was at its highest, with several record achievements. It was symbolically a time for celebrating this achievement, especially as the Olympic was hosted in the land of former Caribbean colonial powers. For the English-speaking Caribbean and CARICOM countries in particular, the achievements were outstanding. It was the first time that so many Caribbean flags were flown, and anthems played, at a single event. This had social and psychological resonance for a region that has struggled economically to survive imperialism and contemporary globalisation. In the end the Caribbean athletes left London with a total of 36 medals, 18 of those being from CARICOM member countries.

Chapter 15 Contribution of sports to Caribbean society

Caribbean medal achievement at the Olympics Caribbean country

Maiden entrance

Times entered

Medal achievement tally

Bahamas

1952

15

11

Barbados

1968

11

1

Bermuda

1936

17

1

Cuba

1900

19

208

Dominican Republic

1964

13

6

Grenada

1984

8

1

Guyana

1948

16

1

Haiti

1924

14

2

Jamaica

1948

16

67

Netherland Antilles

1952

13

1

Puerto Rico

1948

17

8

Suriname

1960

12

2

Trinidad and Tobago

1948

16

18

US Virgin Islands

1968

11

1

Total

328

Table 15.3

Note: The table does not include 1960 when islands of the Eastern Caribbean entered as British West Indies and earned 2 medals.

7 6 5 4

Gold Silver

3

Bronze

2 1 0

Cuba

Jamaica

Trinidad and Tobago

Dominican Republic

Bahamas

Figure 15.8 Caribbean medal haul at the 2012 London Olympics

Grenada

Puerto Rico

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Activity 4

Using Figure 15.8, create a table to show the medal haul by Caribbean countries in 2012.

1

Show the total number of each medal by each country listed.

2

Calculate and list the totals by country and by region for each category.

3

What is the total number of medals earned by the Caribbean? Show this number in your table.

Outstanding 2012 Olympic achievements and records set by Caribbean athletes 2012 • •

World record of 36.84 seconds set by the Jamaica men’s 4 x 100 metre relay race Olympic record of 9.63 seconds set by Jamaica’s Usain Bolt in the 100 metre final (which broke his previous Olympic record). Usain Bolt also holds the world record in the men’s 100 metres

•

National records were set at the Olympics by the following athletes: – Kirani James (Grenada): men’s 400 metres – Keshorn Walcott (Trinidad and Tobago): men’s javelin throw – Jamaica’s women’s relay team: 4 x 100 metres – Bahamas’ men’s relay team: 4 x 400 metres – Trinidad and Tobago’s men’s relay team: 4 x 400 metres

Figure 15.9 Kirani James

•

Jamaica’s Usain Bolt became the first athlete ever to win the 100 metre and 200 metre races at consecutive Olympic Games. Together with his country’s relay team he also repeated his gold medal performance of the previous Olympic Games in the 4 x 100 metres race

•

Grenada obtained its first Olympic medal ever when Kirani James won gold in the men’s 400 metre race

•

Trinidad’s Keshorn Walcott was the first athlete in the western hemisphere in 60 years to win a gold in the men’s javelin throw

•

Youngest Caribbean medalists: – Robeisy Ramirez Carrazana 18 (Cuba) – Luguelin Santos 18 (Dominican Republic) – Kirani James 19 (Grenada) – Keshorn Walcott 19 (Trinidad and Tobago) – Deon Lendore 19 (Trinidad and Tobago)

•

Figure 15.10 Keshorn Walcott

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Oldest Olympian to win the 400 metres was Felix Sanchez of Dominican Republic

Chapter 15 Contribution of sports to Caribbean society

Case Study The impact of Jamaica on the 2012 Olympiad in London If proof of sports as a symbol of pride – identity and international recognition – needed evidence, then the presence of Jamaica, and many other Caribbean nations, at the 30th Olympiad in London, England in 2012 speaks volumes. For Jamaica, and the rest of the Caribbean, the location for this Olympiad was symbolic on many levels. As discussed in Chapter 6, England was once the seat of the colonial empire that governed Jamaicans and many other Caribbean nations.

Winning in England is not new for Caribbean sports teams. One of Jamaica’s strengths is its outstanding athletes, many of whom have beaten the old master at sporting events. However, the year 2012 celebrated both of Jamaica’s and Trinidad’s 50th anniversary of independence from Great Britain. A successful performance at the Olympic Games from the Jamaican team, and from superstar Usain Bolt, was a golden gift for Jamaica.

Because he held two world records and the title ‘Fastest man on Earth’, Usain Bolt drew unprecedented media attention and there was Bolt/Jamaica mania in London.

Louise Bennett highlighted in her poem ‘Colonization in Reverse’ the impact of Caribbean people on England. Miss Lou had a saying: ‘Wi likkle but witallawah’, which means, ‘we are small but powerful’. For Jamaica to get coverage in almost every mainstream media, including in the United States and Canada, was tremendous. The little island that had once been colonised by England where black citizens were mere slaves, has now marked its identity on the world’s stage in the highly prestigious Olympic Games.

Social media was bombarded with sentiments of unity and support from the entire Caribbean, the diaspora and fans of Jamaica. But it wasn’t just Usain Bolt.

With world-class competitors, outstanding Olympic outfits designed by Cedella Marley in collaboration with Puma, and the already potent Jamaican culture in the ‘Olympic Village’, Jamaicans now enjoy recognition from the world. The Guardian newspaper wrote of the ‘Jamaica House’ (the cultural museum of Jamaica at the Olympic Village), ‘The small island with the big Olympic reputation’. Another online article stated, ‘If you don’t want to be a Jamaican now, you will by the time the Olympics is over’. This quotation went ‘viral’ on social media. Jamaican and Caribbean people will remember the 2012 Olympics in London like none other before it.

The overarching function of sport has been as a source of nationalism and identity. Out of this, its role as a means of building morale and discipline as the basis for successful sporting activities is founded. Participating in sport, for all the reasons that have been discussed throughout this chapter – health, recreation, competition and income – requires discipline. Sport is said to regulate behaviour in hyperactive kids and to energise lethargic ones. It is through competitive sports that school children learn about loyalty to institution and community, which is later translated into loyalty to country and region. In a time of political low points and civil unrest, sports can unify a nation and raise morale.

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1

Using the case study above as your guide to further reading, discuss the following: First world countries have had a perception that they alone have influenced the culture of the Caribbean. Can this view be challenged today?

2

Choose two sports personalities from the Caribbean who have been honoured nationally or internationally and write a short paragraph on each of your chosen characters’ lives.

Activity 5

Include: •

place of birth and early childhood

•

date of first national or international appearance

•

performance statistics

•

contribution to regional and national life

•

awards and honours.

Summary

The talent, skills and potential earning capacity of the Caribbean in the area of sports cannot be over-emphasised. Capital investment, while much higher than it was three decades ago, still needs to be increased if the Caribbean is to benefit globally from sports while protecting its sports men and women. With few resources, the Caribbean has produced powerful sports men and women so the raw talent that exists must be harvested early and every effort made to keep sport in the Caribbean for sustainable development. The potential in the natural environment, the attraction of sport for tourists and the development of sports facilities should continue to develop to boost sports tourism.

End-of-chapter questions

278

1

Name TWO sports in which Caribbean people have gained international recognition.

2

Using examples, explain how sports tourism has contributed to Caribbean development.

3

Describe the contribution made by sports to regional integration and economic development.

CAPE® Caribbean Studies is a unique book and website package that will help students understand the historical, geographical and social influences that have shaped the regions they live in today, confident in the knowledge that all the demands of the new 2012 syllabus are covered: ●

The content of each unit concisely covers the syllabus and highlights key concepts so that students understand exactly what is required of them for the CAPE exam.

●

A dedicated research and data collection section takes students step-by-step through the process of completing their Independent Research Projects, providing an essential check point for both school and private candidates.

●

Exclusive online content is delivered in an engaging and interactive way to enable accessible revision of topics and to bring variety to learning with videos and quizzes.

s e i d u t S n a e b CAPE®Carib Jeanette Ottley is an experienced teacher, examiner and author at both CSEC and CAPE levels. She piloted Caribbean Studies in Barbados in 1998 and supervised the subject at Queens College, Barbados until her retirement. She has travelled extensively throughout the Caribbean.

Marolyn Gentles is a geography education author who was involved with the development and implementation of national EE programmes in Jamaica with the National Environmental Education Committee, and the Blue and John Crow Mountain National Park. She is presently researching Caribbean diaspora at Baruch, City University of New York..

Veta Dawson is head of the Humanities Department at the Immaculate Conception High School in Kingston, Jamaica where she has seen many students pass with exceptional results.

Julian Cresser, lecturer at the Institute of Caribbean Studies, University of the West Indies, Mona, acted as an advisor on the project.

CAPE is a registered trademark of the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC). CAPE® Caribbean Studies is an independent publication and has not been authorised, sponsored, or otherwise approved by CXC.

www.pearsoncaribbean.com