SPORTING BARBADOS 2018 EDITION / www.sportingbarbados.com
C O N T E N T S
CONTENTS 8 10 12 16 30 42 54 58 70 80 88 90 100 106 116 118 126 130 138 144 150 158
WELCOME CONTRIBUTORS FOREWORDS TOP SHOTS BARBADOS! - GOOD THINGS COME IN SMALL PACKAGES! CLUB CHOICE - GOLF IN BARBADOS SANDY LANE CHARITABLE TRUST GOLF TOURNAMENT GALLOPING GARRISON POLO SCENE HIT IT! - CRICKET LOVELY CRICKET SIR GARFIELD SOBERS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS TOURNAMENT PETROL-HEAD PARADISE RUN BARBADOS CELEBRATES 35 YEARS SAILING BARBADOS BARBADOS BEACH CULTURE FESTIVAL SWIM BARBADOS SURFING’S YOUNG GUNS DIVE BARBADOS BUMPER MASTERS FOOTBALL HOCKEY ON THE RISE RUGBY SOARS SQUASH FOR ALL
Cover Image by Above Barbados
Credits Publisher – Hiltop Publications Ltd, 11 Cottage Ridge, St George, Barbados, BB19071 Tel (246) 228-9122 Fax (246) 228-0243 Email sportingb@caribsurf.com www.sportingbarbados.com www.barbadospropertynews.com www.caribbeanpropertymag.com Editor – Pamela L Hiles Editorial – Pamela Hiles, J Clarence Hiles, Mark Wheeler and our Contributors - see page 10 Advertising – Pamela L Hiles Photography – J Clarence Hiles, Pamela L Hiles, Peter Marshall, Sandy Lane Charitable Trust, Sandy Lane Hotel, Apes Hill Golf Club, Royal Westmoreland Golf Club, BTMI, Martyn Notesworthy, Bob Crockett, David Speiler,
6 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Kenmore Bynoe, Caribbean Aerial Photography, Zary Evelyn, Alan Burke, Rachel Roett, Chelsea Tuach, Brooks La Touche, Ozzy Osbourne, Kenny Hewitt, Brian Talma, Himal Reece, Nicholas Bhajan, Corey Reece, CL Pat Toppin, James Peirce, Randy Brooks, CPL, Louis Venezia, Lucy Agace, Above Barbados & Bushy Park Barbados Design and Art Direction – Neil Barnard at 809 Design Associates, Barbados Distribution – Hiltop Publications Ltd, CITO Distribution (UK) Printed in the UK The Material and editorial contained in this publication was deemed correct at the time of going to print but may be subject to change thereafter. No part of this publication should be reproduced without the consent of the publishers.
Copyright 2018 Sporting Barbados
F O R E W O R D
Welcome!
Welcome to beautiful Barbados! Yes, it is the destination of land, sea and sunshine, but there’s much more to enjoy in Barbados! The sporting activities on this island are astounding, and in our niche publication Sporting Barbados we hope you can share the experience. There is so much happening in and around Barbados so it takes some time to appreciate what is on offer. Of course, everyone has different taste buds so let’s see a flavour of what is included in our new edition. Motorsport has overtaken King Cricket as the premier sport. There are plenty of activities throughout the year, but the Sol Barbados Rally is something special. Huge numbers attend and foreign visitors love the competition. It is the envy of local organizations, but they have worked hard to attain the pinnacle. Plans at the Sol Rally start immediately after each event! That’s impressive. 20 years ago it was difficult to market
Barbados as a golfing destination. However, we now have a wide range of courses to compete with some of the best golf in the Caribbean. Golfers can tailor to suit their requirements. It can be tough or leisurely, and it can be expensive or low budget, because the courses offer great options. We have Sandy Lane (three courses), Barbados Golf Club, Royal West Moreland, Apes Hill Club, and the popular little Rockley Club with the biggest social buzz. Open events include the Sir Garfield Sobers Golf Tournament, the Sandy Lane Charity Trust Golf Tournament and The Sagicor Barbados Open and Rockley Tournaments. The Sandy Lane Cup Festival lasts more than a week with the Broadway Musical Shows, parade, and polo matches, but Saturday afternoon in the first week of March is the big race, and its broadcast through international TV channels globally. The race season has three stages, and the Massy United Derby in August is another popular event. Crowds flock to Polo matches in the first half of the year. Celebs on and off the field frequently attend and there is a big social buzz in the clubhouses. Prince Harry once played at Apes Hill, and a lot longer ago, Prince Charles once played at Holder’s Hill, the centre of the Barbados Polo Club. Watersports run every year. Sailing is centred at the Yacht Club at Carlisle Bay, and the surfer’s flock to the Soup Bowl at Bathsheba. Brian ‘Irie Man’ Talma is known all over the world at Silver Sands with his particular brand of ‘beach culture.’ This iconic Ambassador of Barbados has spent his life competing on the world stage in Windsurfing. His Barbados Beach Culture Festival attracts some of the biggest names worldwide. It features Windsurfing, Kiteboarding, SUPing and Surfing. As ‘Irie Man’ would say, “Action!” Last year we featured the Finn World Masters World Championship. The Mount Gay Rum Regatta around the island series has a huge gathering with the sailing
fraternity. Zary and Kristina Evelyn have rejuvenated sports management across several activities. The Ocean Festival is packed with events including the ‘Swim the Bay’ across Carlisle Bay. Popularity has increased with participants from all over the world and the same could be said for their promotion of the Run Barbados Series pre-Christmas. Sadly, King Cricket has changed. The palate of local cricket goers prefer shorter matches and T20 and 50 Overs ODI cricket reigns supreme. That’s when the big buzz happens at Kensington Oval these days. Test cricket remains the domain of the connoisseur, and tickets are unlikely to pose a challenge in the foreseeable future as CPL cricket grows. Let’s add rugby, hockey, equestrian, tennis, squash, badminton, athletics, mind games, et al and you can understand why there’s so much more in Barbados. And then add the leisure recreational activitiesisland boat tours, land rover safaris, visiting spectacular caves, see the Concorde, tunnels under the Garrison Savannah, and of course, shopping , eating or simply relaxing on the beach. We could not produce this publication without the help of our many sponsors. Special thanks to the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, the Tourism Development Corporation, Minister Sealy and Minister Lashley for their Forewords, and to our many advertisers, contributors and wonderful photographers, especially Peter Marshall. Thank you all for your vision and loyalty. A final thank you to an exceptional designer Neil Barnard. He has been with us 21 years and his creative design and technical knowledge never ceases to amaze us. Welcome to Sporting Barbados 2018!
Log onto www.sportingbarbados.com for up to date news on events in Barbados! 8 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
C O N T R I B U T O R S
CONTRIBUTORS
Clarence Hiles
Lucy Agace - Diving
Anne Tindale – Sailing
Amy Goulding - Rugby
Kenmore Bynoe Photography
Michael Phillips – Polo
Peter Marshall – Photography
Kristina Evelyn – Marathon and Water Festival
10 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
F O R E W O R D
Foreword by the Honourable Richard Sealy, M.P Minister of Tourism and International Transport Congratulations to the Management Team of ‘Sporting Barbados’ on the 21st year of the publication of this iconic magazine, which has over the years provided a wealth of information on sporting events and leisure activities hosted on this beautiful island. The significant work of sports sometimes is not fully recognized by many persons and I especially commend the editors, Pamela and Clarence Hiles for creating a unique sports tourism publication where sports play a dominant role. The Government of Barbados is however cognizant of the synergies between sports and the tourism product and we are proud to say that the value of sports has been well articulated, especially when our sportsmen compete successfully and place Barbados on the international sporting market. Sports tourism is certainly a business which generates significant income and the exposure gained from hosting international events creates the opportunity for Barbados to achieve recognition as a sports holiday destination. My Ministry, through the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, has developed a marketing strategy to support sports tourism and I assure you that we will continue to work assiduously to develop initiatives and to promote Barbados as a destination of choice for hosting world class sporting events. To this end, Barbados successfully hosted new and exciting sporting opportunities and activities in 2017, namely, OK Dinghy World Championships and the Finn World Master Championships; Golden Oldies World Cricket Festival; Barbados Beach Wellness Festival; Barbados Festival of Cycling; Dragon World Championship 2017 and the Barbados Beach Tennis Open. It is therefore anticipated that in 2018, the sports offerings will be greater with Barbados being selected as the venue for some tournaments, such as: 12 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Mount Gay Round Barbados Beach Waterpolo Masters Tournament Barbados International Football Tournament Sir Garfield Sobers International Cricket Tournament Sol Rally Barbados Run Barbados Marathon Weekend Particular emphasis will be placed on the Sir Garfield Sobers International Schools Cricket Tournament 2017, as it celebrates its 30th Anniversary which is a significant milestone. This event is expected to attract over 15 overseas entries namely from United Kingdom, Trinidad and Tobago, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Guyana, Dominica and Antigua. This I can assure you would be one of the main sporting activities for cricket enthusiasts. On behalf of the Government of Barbados, I extend congratulations to the Sir Garfield Sobers International School Cricket Management and Team on this accomplishment. As we continue to promote sports tourism, it is important that our facilities are equipped to accommodate the plethora of events, which will be taking place on our shores. Recently, the Government of Barbados with the assistance of the Government of China, have renovated the Garfield Sobers Gymnasium, to a state of the art facility, which will be the home for many sporting, cultural and other activities for both locals and visitors to enjoy. Congratulations once again to Sporting Barbados on another successful publication, and I wish you continued success for 2018. Richard L Sealy, M.P
#BornToDare
BLACK BAY
F O R E W O R D
Foreword by the Honourable Stephen A. Lashley, M.P. Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth
Sporting Barbados continues to be an excellent magazine, creatively revealing Barbados’ sports offerings and the associated excitement to the world. In so doing, this publication has become a repository of information for the international sports community and a fillip to the development of Barbados’ Sports Tourism Product. It is therefore with pleasure that I congratulate the Principals of Hiltop Publications on presenting their 2018 Edition of the Sporting Barbados Magazine. Over the past year, Barbados continued to demonstrate its diversity as a destination for sports tourism and this was reflected in the Sporting Barbados Magazine. In catering to the international sports enthusiasts and fun seekers, Barbados hosted a number of international competitions, meetings and conferences in various sporting disciplines. These included beach and aquatic events that ranged from the Barbados International Fishing Championship and the OK Class Dinghy Sailing Championship to the Barbados Open Water Swimming Festival, the Barbados Beach Wellness Festival and the Barbados Beach Tennis Open. The diversity of Barbados’ sports offering also extended to the annual 14 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
hosting of the crème a la crème of the world amateur surfers at the “Soup Bowl” in Bathsheba and for the Pro-Surf Festival, as well to the Run Barbados Marathon series and the increasingly popular indigenous game of road tennis. The range of offering also included championships in Rugby 7s, Bodybuilding, hockey, football, polo, bridge, dominoes and the newly introduced Barbados Ninja Throwdown. Of course the motor sports community was treated to the annually hosted Sol Rally Barbados and FLOW King of the Hill event, while the horse-racing family enjoyed the prestigious Sandy Lane Gold Cup and many other exciting race days at the historic Garrison Savannah. In the area of cricket, Barbados was again a hive of excitement with the hosting of the England/West Indies ODI, the Golden Oldies World Cricket Festival and other International Cricket Tournaments, including the legendary Sir Garfield Sobers’ International Schools Cricket Tournament. The hosting of these international events is a key component of Barbados’ sports tourism effort, which redounded to increased tourists arrivals and an essential contribution to the economy in keeping with the strategic thrust of the Government of Barbados. Beyond the direct economic activity attributed to accommodation, transportation, catering, vending opportunities and the employment of persons, the hosting of sports events in Barbados has had a ripple effect on the economy that extends to the manufacturing, agricultural and other sectors. Moreover, the associated branding and media rights can redound to long term benefits for local businesses. The attainment of these successes is influenced by the media through which the events are promoted locally, regionally and internationally, with one such medium being the Sporting Barbados Magazine. Beyond the effective advertising of the
sports events in Barbados, Sporting Barbados has been instrumental in highlighting the Barbadian sports facilities in the global arena. Among these facilities are our pristine beaches, the infamous Kensington Oval – mecca of cricket in the Caribbean, the historic Garrison Savannah – home of horse racing, the islands six golf courses and the Wildey Sport Complex, which boasts a new hockey Astroturf, a football Astroturf, eight lawn-tennis courts, an Aquatic Centre with an Olympic size pool and the recently modernised Garfield Sobers Gymnasium - a fully air-conditioned indoor multi-purpose sport facility. In this regard, the consistent efforts of the Sporting Barbados Magazine must be applauded. I also take this opportunity to congratulate Sporting Barbados on the recent launch of their monthly publication of the Digital Sporting Barbados Island News Update, an excellent initiative through which the world will be apprised of current sports attractions in Barbados. As the Government of Barbados seeks to solidify the island’s position as a paradise and all-year destination for sports, we look forward to the unwavering support of the Sporting Barbados Magazine with respect to developing Barbados’ sports tourism profile. Once again, congratulations to the Principals of Hiltop Publications and the best of successes during the year 2018 and beyond.
BULOVA.COM , Bulova, Bulova Curv are registered trademarks. 2017 Bulova. 98A185.
The World’s First Introducing the world’s first curved chronograph movement. Once again, Bulova adds to its long history of firsts with the CURV watch.
A History of Firsts
Bridgetown Cruise Terminal • Cave Shepherd • Grantley Adams Airport Hilton Hotel • Nicholas House-Harrisons • Vista Complex
T O P
S H O T S
Josh Burke Photo: Courtesy Alan Burke 16 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
T O P
S H O T S
Jeff Panton & Mike Fennel Photo: Nicholas Bhajan 18 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
T O P
S H O T S
Bree-Ann Hurdle Photo: Alison Elliott 20 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
T O P
S H O T S
Rugby Sevens at the Garrison Photo: Peter Marshall 22 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Big Bang Ferrari King Gold. King Gold case inspired by the brands’ iconic lines. In-house UNICO chronograph. Interchangeable strap with a patented attachment. Limited edition of 500 pieces.
Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, Holetown, St. James Tel: 271-8230 Lower Broad Street, Bridgetown Tel: 430-2400
hublot.com
T O P
S H O T S
Skateboarding Photo: Ozzy Osbourne 24 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
John Hardy and Classic Chain Collection are Registered Trademarks.
The Artisan Handcrafted Classic Chain Collection
AVA I L A B L E AT D I A M O N D S I N T E R N AT I O N A L
Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, Holetown, St.James T: 271 8230 Lower Broad Street, Bridgetown T: 430 2400
T O P
S H O T S
Alzarri Joseph Photo: Randy Brooks 26 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
SPORTING BARBADOS Goes Monthly! Thanks to the Tourism Development Corporation (TDC) Sporting Barbados went monthly with it’s digital Island Updates Newsletter. The idea was the brainchild of 809 Design Associates who handle the design and social media side of the brand. Martin Ince of the TDC wanted to support an initiative that highlighted sporting tourism events well in advance digitally so that visitors would have the opportunity to come, participate or spectate. It’s been a complete success as the Newsletter is distributed to a growing database by email and on the popular Sporting Barbados Facebook page. It also directs traffic to www.sportingbarbados.com and the digital copy of the publication. A win win situation for all supporters and advertisers.
Sign up for it on our Facebook page And be kept informed on all that’s happening on this paradise island well in advance.
T O P
S H O T S
Darius Baracus Gaskin Photo: Kenmore Bynoe 28 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
B A R B A D O S
30 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
BARBADOS! G O O D T H I N G S C O M E I N S M A L L PA C K A G E S !
Photo: Nicola Barnard
31 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
B A R B A D O S
Crane beach
This holiday is your choice. If you are in a beachfront all inclusive hotel – pampered to the hilt – you may choose to just lie and indulge all day with a good book.
32 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
J
ust a dot in the Atlantic Ocean, this small island packs big punches. A Barbadian, I spent a lot of my time in Canada, Spain, and the UK. On returning to Barbados just over 20 years ago, the first thing that struck me was how MUCH there was to do on a little island of 166 square miles. We literally have it all, just on a smaller scale! You can be out every night of the week on this island at a different event or restaurant. From simple quiz nights to elaborate polo events, this island has it covered. Boredom is not an option. This holiday is your choice. If you are in a beachfront all inclusive hotel – pampered to the hilt – you may choose to just lie and indulge all day with a good book. Life is busy back where you come from as we say here so this is your time to relax. You have to be warned though and it’s my duty as a Barbadian to do just that, you would be missing out! With all our lovely beaches, it’s a shame
not to see more than one! Water – we are surrounded by it. To not experience swimming with the turtles on the lively Tiami cruises or a personalized sunset cruise on the stunning Cat and the Fiddle with five star luxury and uncompromised service would be criminal. To miss out on visiting Earthworks pottery in the hills of St Thomas – seeing Dave Speiler the master potter at work and feasting your eyes on their many creations would be a terrible shame. And if you come via the Warrens roundabout, you simply have to stop just by the CIBC FCIB bank Head quarters and take a look at the magnificent wall decorated by Dave and his colleagues. It’s made from Earthworks material and depicts environmental issues. Inspirational! You must take an island tour, whether in air-conditioned comfort with Suntours or in adventurous open land rovers with Island safari to experience the diverse nature of Barbados. This island has two very different sides to it and neither of them should be
B A R B A D O S
Carlisle Bay
Cattlewash
Accra beach
34 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Bottom Bay
South coast boardwalk
3T AR F I S H BY "EL L E ยกT OI L E ย BEL L EET OI L EJ EWEL R Y COM
B A R B A D O S
The Careenage
Cave Shepherd, Broad Street
The Parliament building
To not take a trip into historic Bridgetown, passing the Unesco World Heritage Site of the Garrison – well – what can I say? Speechless!
36 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
missed. To not take a trip into historic Bridgetown, passing the Unesco World Heritage Site of the Garrison – well – what can I say? Speechless! The hustle and bustle of this port with it’s lovely parliament buildings, extremely interesting parliament museum, statue of Lord Nelson (reputedly older than the one in Trafalgar Square London) exquisite shopping in Diamonds International, Colombian Emeralds International, Royal Shop, Cave Shepherd, Best of Barbados and more – all duty free!!! When you are tired, pop into the Waterfront Café, have a cocktail or beer and watch the yachts softly float on the swells in the careenage. You’re on holiday you say? Don’t want too
much exertion you say? As I said, you would be missing out… Perhaps you’re a night owl? Well, we have got you there as well. The world famous Harbour Lights Nightclub beckons. If you have the family and would just like to do a cultural show, then the Beach Show and Barbeque is for you, however, if you’re between the ages of 18 and … the heaving, pulsating and completely additive party nights are your thing. I met my husband there. Nuff said (as we say in Bajan!) And if you want to try out the restaurants? You are in for a total treat. From the more affordable Chefette and Bert’s Bar to the seriously fine dining experience of Daphne’s, Champers, Tapas, Camelot and many more, Barbados is
B A R B A D O S
Friday night in Oistins
At the races
Kadooment
Steel pan at St. Nicholas Abbey
Watching cricket in the country
38 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
B A R B A D O S
Jetski fun
Kitesurfing at Silver Rock
Tommy Hill vs three-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton at the Festival of Speed 2016 at Bushy Park Barbados
Sports is your thing? Well you have picked up the right magazine, as we are full to the brim of all the major sporting activities you can take part in or watch from a distance.
40 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
foodie heaven. Every pocket is catered for – every taste bud. You can visit a local rum shop in the country for fried pork chops and peas and rice or you can eat Sushi and drink Processo while watching the sunset. We have it all. Sports is your thing? Well you have picked up the right magazine, as we are full to the brim of all the major sporting activities you can take part in or watch from a distance. You can take it all in here from diving and watersports to horse racing at the Garrison and car racing at Bushy Park. And if you’re really keen – you can even run a marathon or swim Carlisle Bay! So you have no excuse if you truly do want to try us out – I have only touched the tip of the iceberg. You can check our very
active Sporting Barbados facebook page or www.sportingbarbados.com. Experience Barbados – small island – big heart!
G O L F
Sandy Lane Country Club Course
42 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
CLUB CHOICE G olfers have several exciting options in Barbados. It could be tough to choose! If you fancy serious golf and you’re not restricted by budget, the world’s your oyster, and every course is available. The tariff may be steep at courses like Sandy Lane, Royal Westmoreland and Apes Hill Club but they are quite spectacular. If you have no option but to consider green fees and assess what is available at the best rates then there is still plenty of choice. Perhaps you are simply the leisure golfer and see no need to play at the best venue, seeking a bit of fun and the 19th hole. Rockley is your choice here! You might be a cruiser and plan to golf at the Barbados destination? You can hire clubs/shoes at most venues and have an amazing day. The golf purist , whatever the size of your wallet, can have a great golf experience. Packages are available from travel agents, but it is not too difficult to book a top hotel, plan your flight and then book directly with the clubs. Let’s look at the amazing golf choices on the island.
43 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
SANDY LANE Sandy Lane has three outstanding courses, including the 9-hole Old Nine. The facilities are rated International Class with a splendid clubhouse, restaurant and bar overlooking the course, and quality Pro Shop. The courses are superbly manicured and offer a 450 yards driving range, GPS system, carts and hire clubs. Some golfers might view the cost as high, but then again, it’s THE Sandy Lane Resort, one of the most renowned venues in the world. Golf course guru Tom Fazio is attributed with the Country Club and Green Monkey course design. The Old Nine is a remnant of the old 18 hole course and by and large, it has remained intact with minor changes. The Championship Country Club Course hosted the World Match Play in 2006 won by the German duo Bernard Langer and Marcel Siem. The course measures 7,060 yards and is a 72 par. Panoramic views can
Green Monkey Course
44 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
be seen of the West Coast and small lakes adorn superb fairways. Players regard the course as a fair challenge, although it can be set tougher, depending on the level required. The wind against hole 5 is tough, but then again hole 6 has the benefit of wind assistance. Hole 9 comes back to the clubhouse. The eighteenth hole is a par 3 across a small lake and is overlooked by the clubhouse. Tom Fazio’s exclusive Green Monkey Course is 7,343 yards long and is another par 72. The course has been set in an old limestone quarry and these features are prominent throughout. Hole 9 is a gruelling 635 yards at its longest, but within 16, 17 and 18 is a magnificent feature including a bunker complete with a green monkey. The Old Nine is a favourite with locals and visitors, who remember the old days dating
back to 1961 at the old Trust House Forte Sandy Lane Hotel. The Signature hole is the 7th and it requires a straight delivery from a pitch on an elevated tee box overlooking the West Coast. A clubhouse at the Old Nine close to the hotel offers welcome refreshments. All three Sandy Lane courses are a treat, but they come at a cost. The Green Monkey is exclusive to Sandy Lane Hotel guests and can cost US$390 for the pleasure. Caddies are obligatory at all 18 hole Sandy Lane courses at a modest US$50 plus tip. Most vary from US$20 to US$50. The Championship course charge is US$240 in the winter season, US$195 in the summer. Cart hire is US$30. Sandy Lane Hotel guests fees at the Championship vary from US$200-170, and US$150-110 at the Old Nine for 18 holes.
APES HILL Many golfers feel the most attractive feature at the Apes Hill course is the panoramic views that embraces both west and east coasts and some stunning scenery. However, it’s also a formidable test of golf when set at its toughest. The three holes at 12th/13th and 14th are idyllic. The par-3 hole 12 is a must for photos, set in rock faces within the green. Hole 13 overlooks the East Coast and requires a straight drive and challenging approach shot. Many errant approach shots fall short in the gully and disappear. Hole 14 is another photo shot before play as the towering trees require a straight drive and careful approach as the attacking shot may reach The Clubhouse at Apes Hill Club
46 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
the heavy foliage. The 16th is the Signature hole and with good reason. A lake faces the green and the backdrop has beautiful coral stone and a picturesque cave. At its longest the course reaches 7,150 yards and the design is credited to Chris Cole and Jeff Potts. However, Apes Hill is a much larger complex as the resort offers polo, tennis, spa, fitness, pro shop, practice area, driving range and an impressive clubhouse with bar and excellent cuisine. Apes Hill also offers an extensive range of real estate alongside fairways and rental units with full use of all the facilities. Green fees range from US$170-$280.
R O YA L W E S T M O R E L A N D Sandy Lane, Apes Hill and Royal Westmoreland are situated close to each other overlooking the West Coast. Royal Westmoreland is set within sprawling real estate, ranging from expansive (and expensive) large villas to townhouses. An impressive clubhouse has a Pro shop, Diamonds International shop, bar and cuisine with full hire facilities, which includes the use of the driving range and putting green. Owners also make full use of tennis, gym and the beach facility at Mullins. The course has many features and designer Robert Trent Jones (Jnr) has made full use of the rock faces that surround the fairways. Deep gullies, two small lakes and
Aerial view of Royal Westmoreland
48 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
monkeys are prevalent, and some players have sworn that monkeys lift the balls. The four par-3s are excellent and the final hole has a breathtaking view with a deep descent to the green. Trouble abounds unless the drive is straight and the approach shot has to be negotiated to avoid the gully just before. The aggressive approach also has its problems, as the long shot might land in the clubhouse. It is a superb final hole and former Masters Champion Ian Woosnam owns a villa nearby. A number of international sporting celebrities own at Royal Westmoreland and the Shell World of Golf several years ago featured a challenge between golf
superstars Sir Nick Faldo and Tom Lehman. Lehman won from an off-colour Faldo. The Europeans Seniors Tour also opened the series there in former times. The four par-3s are daunting. Hole 3 can be troublesome if the wind howls as many golfers fall short, but you must never be short at the 7th as it falls in the lake! Holes 12 and 15 are surrounded with gullies. All four have elevated tee boxes from different locations, but circulating wind doesn’t make it easy to hit greens. Birdies are priceless at par threes. Beautiful Real estate abounds throughout. The sales office is at the clubhouse and rentals offer attractive rates
B A R B A DOS
BARBADOS GOLF CLUB Dubbed the heart of Barbados golf, BGC is mostly frequented by local players with a variety of competitions taking place on Saturdays and cruise ship visitors. The course was dormant for 30 years, but Irish golf guru Roddy Carr is credited with it’s rejuvenation 20 years ago. As a former International Professional player he later retired and then aligned with some of the most visionary golf designers including the late Seve Ballesteros and Mark McCormick. He introduced new thinking at Durants and an excellent business model. He designed wide fairways, with better use of wind, drainage, and greens. He welcomed new members with reasonable green fees. BGC is now fairly priced with a wide range of facilities. These include a clubhouse in front of the 9th and 18th greens, bar and restaurant, tuition, driving range, putting green and hire club facilities. El Sol apartments overlook the course and some
barbados Golf Club at Durants
50 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
of the units are available to rent. Last year all the greens were replaced and they are excellent. Overall the course measures 7,050 yards, and is wide with generous fairways. The errant golfer who goes out-of-bounds will deserve it! Wind plays an important role most times, and is consistent and predictable. The holes against the wind can be difficult. A feature of the fairways is coral waste areas, which trap the water in channels to a lake and ensure much-needed irrigation is available. The coral waste should be played like the fairways rather than sand traps. “Amen Corner” is attributed to Carr, and involves holes 15 and 16. The 15th should not pose a problem as a par-5, although taking on the towering tree will be tempting if an eagle is sought. The cautious player might prefer to lag from the right and then attempt to pitch and putt for the birdie instead.
Heading to face into the wind in front of the lake is more troublesome to get a par-3 on hole 16 and the water is full of golf balls! That’s why it is called Amen Corner! The last hole has options depending on the need. It is a par-5 and you may prefer to lag the second shot and then pitch to the green across water. Or, you may need a birdie and therefore it has to be a long straight drive and another long second shot to avoid the water close to the green. It’s up to you how you how daring you want to be! Green fees are US$105 and 7-day rates are available at US$500 for a week. Twilight rates at 3pm are available at US$55, a cart is US$27. Barbados Golf Club has very reasonable rates, is a formidable challenge to play and is excellent value for money.
ROCKLEY GOLF CLUB Rockley is the hidden gem in Barbados golf. Yes, there are only 9 holes, the fairways are not immaculate like other courses, heavy rain brings its challenges and cars cross several holes in front of tee boxes. However, the social buzz at Fairways Restaurant at Rockley clubhouse is something special, and little wonder so many golfers return annually. Rockley has a “Snowbird” culture and the busy season is pre and post-Christmas. Summers are quiet, although Saturday competitions are held weekly and ‘pots’ are normally Tuesday and Thursdays. The main tournaments are the Rockley Open in February and the Christmas Hamper where everyone gets a prize. The club is open and all visitors are welcome to participate, although a handicap certificate from domicile clubs may be required. Rockley is the oldest course dating from 1926 and currently measures 3,780 yards at 9 holes. It is a par 70 as the game is
Rockley Golf Club
52 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
normally 18 holes (with rotating tee boxes used). The club has a bubbly membership throughout and presentations are made at the end of each tournament. Although the club has a corporate structure, the management has traditional appointments with a Men’s Captain and Lady Captain. Some visitors might feel the course is easy because the distance should never pose a problem. However, there are several problems. Every hole sits close to Out-ofBounds posts, bunkers protect the greens, and towering trees surround or in some cases, as in the 7th and 8th holes, are in the middle. Big hitters have no advantage at Rockley, as the skill is to manage within the confines. Many low handicap golfers can’t cope with the narrow fairways. In local competition with other clubs Rockley members are unbeatable! Rockley is surrounded by over 400 apartments. Many visitors rent properties from Island Gold Realty at the clubhouse
but locals live there as well. The course is a gated community situated a few hundred yards from the South Coast close and Accra Beach. Holes 7, 8 and 9 present the biggest challenge. On hole 7 a majestic tree stretches across the fairway. Hole 8 has a big tree in front of the green and a bunker to the right. This presents another tight entry to the green. Hole 9 has four bunkers to protect the green. You get the message! Rockley is excellent value for money. Green fees are normally US$55 and nonresident US$70 for each round. However, there are packages for virtually every combination to play. Carts are US$16. Excellent value in an understatement. Just add the camaraderie in the clubhouse when the Snowbirds are in town and the buzz après golf is something special. Golf, music, drink and food combine to create a special club atmosphere.
G O L F
SANDY LANE CHARITABLE TRUST The Sandy Lane Charitable Trust continues doing excellent work for the underprivileged children in Barbados. Often heart breaking testimonies from the children and their parents themselves, show how this charity has achieved some amazing success. The Sandy Lane Charitable Trust Golf Tournament and Dinner has been the catalyst to promote fund-raising proceeds every year, and the Trust thanks in particular, the Sandy Lane golf owners, donors, sponsors, presenters, musicians and business friends. The Auction at the Dinner
Winning Team – Gerry McManus, Mary Lee, Joe McKenna and Peter Baker with Gay Smith (centre)
is a big favourite with popular MC Russ Abbott entertaining with his colourful oneliners. The Dinner preludes an emotional short video about the work of the Trust each year, which often reduces patrons to tears and for a sobering moment, takes us into the world of the less fortunate. Over the years the Golf Tournament has established itself as the biggest sporting charity function in Barbados, and many overseas personalities join with Trustees Derrick Smith, Pip Challis, John Lodge and Julian Sacher to support this worthy charity. Long may it continue!
Russ Abbott
Ralph & Shelly Williams
Coleridge and Parry School band and choir
Lord and Lady Andrew Lloyd Webber and Derrick Smith
Derrick Smith, Pip Challis, Julian Sacher & John Lodge
Sir Cliff Richard, Judith Chalmers and friends
Three of the Sandy Lane Hotel Owners – Dermott Desmond, J.P McManus and Derrick Smith
H O R S E
R A C I N G
Royal Barbados Police Band
58 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
GALLOPING GARRISON From the Diamonds International Boxing Day meet to the Sandy Lane Gold Cup and the Massy United Derby, horse racing at the Garrison in Barbados is truly a fun day out.
59 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
H O R S E
R A C I N G
The action at the Garrison has been enjoyed for almost 200 years dating back to 1840 when the British cavalry and the local Plantocracy fought in sporting rivalry.
Sandy Lane Gold Cup
T
hanks to the Royal Engineers for their work in transforming a swamp-infested bog into a splendid area for recreation. It didn’t happen overnight as the Barbados Turf Club, formed in 1906, also deserves a lot of credit, as they provided spectators and stables and the administration necessary for the modern horse racing industry. Much has improved in the ensuing years with added grandstands, hospitality-boxes, tote facilities, parade rings and sponsors. Sponsors provide the oil that runs the engine in Barbados horseracing and racing today would not be possible without The Barbados Lottery. The Turf Club Board brought prosperity into the sport, but not without hard work in securing sponsorship and innovative development. The Garrison
60 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
is an impressive track these days and continues to attract thousands of locals and visitors to Saturday Meets. Saturday afternoon Meets take place on three seasons over the year and admission is a modest $10 dollars for the Grandstand. It is free across and inside the track. There are normally nine races and the day offers a wonderful experience to enjoy horseracing mixing in close proximity to the jockeys and horses. All the horses are paraded prior to the race, the runners start in stalls, and all are flat races. At the end of the race the winning owners and trainers also parade in front of the Grandstand. There is a lot of pomp and exuberance displayed by the victors! The atmosphere is a convivial environment filled with noise, excitement and good fun. There are many sponsors associated with racing, but the most popular and major
H O R S E
R A C I N G Race Days are the Sandy Lane Gold Cup in early March, the Massy United Derby in August, the Ansa McCal Race Day in November and the Diamonds International Boxing Day. Barbados racing owes a lot to others overseas plying their trade and boosting their fame. Sir Michael Stoute is without doubt the Doyen of Trainers operating from England, and throughout the world with a plethora of outstanding Classics. Many Bajan Jockeys operate in Canada
and the jewel of Barbados jockeys is Pat Husbands with over 3,000 wins and a host of podiums. Others remember with affection “Chally” Jones, Jono Jones and Venice Richards et al. Trainers like Scobie Beasley, Bill Marshall, Victor Cheeseman and the triumphant Robert Peirce. Owners and Breeders are aplenty are the Garrison Savannah. Visitors are in for an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss it!
Dominique Silvera & friend
Sandy Lane Gold Cup atmosphere
62 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Exclusively sold at Diamonds International SafiKilima.com LIMEGROVE LIFESTYLE CENTER, HOLETOWN, ST. JAMES 271.8230 LOWER BROAD STREET, BRIDGETOWN 430.2400 8 BROAD STREET, BRIDGETOWN 430.2422 SANDY LANE HOTEL, ST. JAMES 444.2000 TAMARIND COVES, ST. JAMES 419.2508 THE FAIRMONT ROYAL PAVILION, ST. JAMES 419.2502 TURTLE BEACH RESORT, CHRIST CHURCH 418.1331 ROYAL WESTMORELAND, ST. JAMES 419.2510 GRANTLEY ADAMS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 430.2400 WAVES, PROSPECT BAY, ST. JAMES 256.6041 COLONY CLUB, PORTERS, ST. JAMES 422.2335 THE RADISSON HOTEL, ST. MICHAEL 228.0146
Sir Charles Williams and jockey Affrie Ward
Mr. & Mrs. Challis
Sandy Lane Gold Cup winners!
64 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Mrs. Shelly Williams & friend
Leading in the winner
H O R S E
R A C I N G
R O S E T T E AT T H E H U B CEO at the Barbados Turf Club, (BTC) Rosette Peirce has many objectives, but her biggest wish list within and outside the industry is that everyone understands that horseracing is not an exclusive sport. It is inclusive for everyone! “The racing industry in Barbados is holding its own these days. That’s because everyone is getting involved, visitors and locals. We are slowly losing the stigma of the title “Sport of Kings” because this has changed in the modern world. We have grooms that are now horse owners, and this is important for everyone to understand. The sport is changing and so is the audience,” said Rosette. Rosette started at the BTC in 2007 as the Administration/Human Resources Manager. Over the years she has risen through the ranks and now sits in the hot seat. Her husband is a very successful trainer Robert Peirce with several Sandy Lane Gold Cups to his name and he has won many other accolades. To say racing is in the blood of their family is an understatement! Rosette doesn’t view her job as just a title. It’s her passion! “I get to work with my husband every day. If I was not passionate about this industry, I would have left a long time ago. I
Rosette Peirce
66 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
enjoy all the aspects of the job including race days, but my favourite day is the Diamonds International Boxing Day event. I’m not sure if it’s the spirit within Christmas, but it’s the one day that everyone seems to be in a happy mood.” Asked whether any of the big events has lost its spark, Rosette retorted quickly“The Sandy Lane Gold Cup in March is always tremendous. It is very special and local and international interest is huge. The Massy United Derby is also going from strength to strength. Massy Director of Business Development, Strategy and Marketing Micky Armstrong is very much hands-on, and gets involved with his team in the organization. It’s great to have such a committed sponsor. We are very fortunate at the BTC to have such wonderful sponsors.” Horse Racing in Barbados over the calendar year spans three seasons and is closed in September and October to carry out necessary maintenance. Rosette adds: “We have been doing some upgrades and the biggest challenge has been to change the betting system to United Tote. This is aligned to international systems so that punters can bet at overseas races and vici versa. It’s a win-win for everyone. Our
previous betting system was unique to us, but this new system will link us to the major global tracks.” Rosette then added a few things to her wish list: “I would like to see our sport given more respect in the media and at Awards. It seems we are left out many times. I don’t think people understand or appreciate the contribution this industry makes. We make a major contribution to our economy, especially when it comes to sports tourism. Again, this gets back to changing the concept about ‘Sport of Kings.’ People have to change their perspective and realize that this sport is inclusive.” And another: “We hope to get permission from the World Heritage Organization to sanction Night Racing. It’s another win-win for sports tourism and could be on the cards shortly.” There is no doubt the BTC is in good hands with this dynamic lady. She is the hub of local racing and a driving force to change and innovate. Race Days are the public occasions to promote the big events, but behind the scene Rosette has been doing tremendous work within the BTC. Go out and enjoy a truly fun day at the Garrison.
MASSY UNITED INSURANCE
BARBADOS DERBY
RACE DAY 2017
massyunitedinsurance.com T 430 1900
P
O
L
O
Monique Archer and Guille Clerici
70 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
POLO SCENE Getting its start in Barbados in the late 1800s, the local polo scene has spread its wings in recent years. STORY BY MICHAEL PHILLIPS
71 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
P
O
L
O
For most Barbadians, the end of the year signals the yuletide season and prospects of a new year. However, for a small crosssection of the population, the month of December heralds the beginning of the annual local polo season. Running originally from January to June as the first local players were planter class, the season now runs close to the end of May. Getting its start in Barbados in the late 1800s, the local polo scene has spread its wings in recent years as it continues to comfortably carve out a niche for itself.
Polo at Holders
P
olo has always been a social scene in Barbados as in the early days, the well-to-do were thirsty for recreation. Polo brought by the British Cavalry soldiers garrisoned here, always provided them with an opportunity to impress the ladies. These days the social scene has taken on a life of its own as locals from all walks of life venture out to take-in a game or two throughout the season. At each game over the months, many a first-timer can be caught soaking in the atmosphere and being schooled on the fundamentals of the game, which is very much akin to playing a game of hockey on a set of legs that are not yours. This spike in attendance has not been restricted to sons and daughters of the soil as many a visitor seeks out the season schedule before booking their trips so that they can take in a few chukkas themselves. With the regular club matches providing
72 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
enough excitement for those who hold polo near and dear to their hearts, it is the numerous international tours and bigbilled tournaments that draw in the massive crowds each year. Barbados has cemented its spot on the world polo map as international players from all over the globe make their way to these shores to take in some of our world-famous hospitality on and off the field. Already sharing a special relationship with Argentina as several players have made Barbados their second home, the annual season attracts players and teams from Jamaica, Brazil, the United States of America, Canada, United Kingdom, South Africa, Kenya and as far as India, which speaks volumes about the offerings of island's sports tourism product. As soon as January hits, the international teams start to trickle in with the Villages team from the US bringing the early challenge to the Bajans, followed or sometimes played concurrently with the
Diamonds International “A luxury duty free shopping experience unmatched anywhere in the Caribbean!”
Centre, Holetown, St. James • Lower Broad Broad Street, Street, Bridgetown • 8 Broad Broad Street, Street, Bridgetown • Sandy Lane Hotel, St. James • Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, Limegrove Fairmont Royal Pavillion, St. James • Turtle Turtle Beach Resort, Christ Church Church • Royal W Tamarind Hotel, St. James • The Fairmont estmoreland, St. James • The Tamarind Westmoreland, International Airport • Waves, Waves, Prospect Prospect Bay, St. James • Colony Club, Porters, St. James • The Radisson Hotel, St. Michael Grantley Adams International Tel: 430-2400 • 1-800-51-JEWEL • www.DiamondsInternational.com www.DiamondsInternational.com Tel:
/DI.Barbados
/DI.Barbados /DI.Barbados
P
O
L
O Canadian tour. Out of the UK, the Hickstead tour provides some exciting games for the Apes Hill Polo Club, while the ever-popular rivalry between the Barbados Polo Club and Cheshire has been rumbling for years and continues to do so. Several other tours and tournaments draw massive crowds to the grounds at Holders, Lion Castle and Apes Hill, but none carries an energy, buzz or a following like the Diamonds International Battle of the Sexes. Three international female players and one local lady go head-tohead against some of the best male players. With the odds ever in the favour of
74 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
the men, the support for the women is unparalleled as the majority roots for the ladies in the keenly-contested matches. Contrary to popular belief or what may hold in different parts of the world, polo in Barbados is for everyone. From the tiniest of tots to the more mature, from the seasoned spectator to the chukka virgin. There is space and a spot for all to enjoy an evening at the club house. Whether it is having a drink at the bar or arguing the last play with the outspoken Sir Charles Williams, all colours and classes are welcome. Don't let the 2018 season miss you.
P
O
L
O
76 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
P
O
L
O
78 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
C R I C K E T
Joe Root. Photo: Randy Brooks
80 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
HIT IT! BACK TO CRICKET L O V E LY CRICKET 81 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
C R I C K E T
Of course, Barbados never lost these wonderful calypso lyrics “Cricket lovely Cricket,” but it has been painful to sing for many years as West Indies cricket struggled. However, there is a brighter future as the Windies are rising like a Phoenix from the Ashes.
M
any Bajans believe West Indies cricket will never succeed without Barbados involvement. This lack of Bajan talent happened in the past, but the current squad is now packed with potential and talent. The West Indies aligned with Barbados last year and things have a brighter future with a young team. Spearheading the new team is skipper Jason Holder from Wanderers and Barbados and it is in good hands with him! We welcome all the giants in cricket and especially the famous Barmy Army who follow the mighty Lion England. In particular, we welcome club tours and you can contact Sporting Barbados for direction on the right people to arrange your tour. Some clubs combine cricket with golf and for schools they often link with hockey and netball. The Sir Garfield Sobers International Schools Cricket Tournament in July has been a successful competition for 30 years and produced several Test players in the past. We should not forget about the Ladies teams either, as the brand is buoyant and exciting. West Indies Ladies includes several Barbados stars including the multitalented Deandra Dottin. We also have the exciting Caribbean Premier Cricket (CPL), which produces the fast-food cricket that spectators flock to
82 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
see. Barbados has a franchise called Tridents, which contains overseas players in late July/August/September, but the times are subject to change to accommodate global cricket. Best to contact www.cplt20.com for the fixtures. Barbados prides itself on excellent facilities and friendly camaraderie. International matches are held at the Kensington Oval and occasionally at 3Ws Oval at the West Indies University Complex. For the 2018 Itinerary best to contact www.cricketwestindies.org for the details. West Indies and Barbados has been blessed with some of the greatest players in the world. Stars include the famous 3Ws Sir Everton Weekes, Sir Clyde Walcott, Sir Frank Worrell, Sir Conrad Hunte, Sir Wesley Hall, Malcolm Marshall, Joel Garner, Gordon Greenidge, Desmond Haynes and of course, The Right Excellent Sir Garfield Sobers, acknowledged as “the greatest cricketer in the world” by the famous Trinidad Calypso writer Mighty Sparrow in the early Sixties. These stars have been captured in text and photographs in a beautiful coffee table book entitled “50 Barbados Sporting Greats- 1966-2016” to mark the Jubilee Celebration. The books are available from www.sportingbarbados.com
C R I C K E T
Spectators!
Kensington Oval
Jason Holder
84 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
C R I C K E T
Carlos Brathwaite takes a catch. Photo: Randy Brooks
86 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
C R I C K E T
SIR GARFIELD SOBERS INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS TOURNAMENT Attracting teams worldwide
Kevin Connell
PHOTOS: KENMORE BYNOE Once again the Lodge School from St John emerged victorious after the 2017 Tournament took place last year. It was the Battle of the Locals after Christ Church Foundation also made the final, but 29 runs narrowly defeated them. The final was held at Kensington Oval in late July. Lodge batsmen Nagid Forde (40) and Shemwyn Harris (35) stole the honours after skipper Jamali Lynch provided staunch support to reach 165. Sir Garfield Sobers presented the trophy to the jubilant team. This Tournament was the 31st competition dating back 1986. Some of the great players that have emerged over the years include former West Indies Captain Brian Lara, former England Captain Alastair Cook and other Test players Sherwin Campbell and Dale Berstein. A full complement of 24 teams took place over the two-week series. It was deemed a success by the hierarchy despite being
reduced to a two-week series, although the options were few. Global academic requirements would have brought logistical problems. There were 13 teams from overseas including four teams from the UK and Canada. Teams competed in three sections throughout the island, culminating with the final at Kensington Oval. Several of the former players of yesteryear attended in honour of this prestigious occasion, deemed to be one of the best of its type in the world. The tournament is a 40-overs format, but the format is under review with T20 competition in the light of time constraints with such tight schedules. However, T20 is the flavour in world cricket and whatever is decided local and overseas teams are guaranteed an unforgettable experience. Barbados cricket is very special.
Sir Garfield Sobers and champions Lodge
88 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Rondell Yearwood
Lodge celebrate
89 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
M O T O R S P O R T
PETROL-HEAD
Martin Stockdale - Sol Rally Barbados 2017. Photo: Himal Reece courtesy of the Barbados Rally Club
90 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
PARADISE
The island’s ability to successfully stage major motor sport events with international appeal is helping to grow its reputation on the world stage in both circuit racing and stage rallying. Story by Mark Wheeler
Bushy Park Barbados from the air
91 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
M O T O R S P O R T
If you are people-watching in either of London Gatwick’s departure lounges in the UK during the last two weeks of May, you’ll easily spot them. Mixed groups of males and females, adults and children, up to 20 or so in each group, attired in matching polo shirts . . . some groups will favour green, some blue, some yellow, but all those shirts will have one thing in common, either in print or logo form, the legend Sol Rally Barbados.
T
hey’re among the hundreds of visitors from the UK that head to the island each year for the Barbados Rally Club’s (BRC) premier event. From small beginnings as a largelydomestic All-Stage Rally for around 30 crews in 1990, it has grown into the Caribbean’s biggest annual motor sport International and a keystone of the island’s sports-tourism portfolio . . . more than 40 overseas crews competed last year, approaching half the total entry. Sol Rally Barbados contributes around Bds $4 million to the economy each year, much of it in valuable foreign exchange, and accounts for more than 3,500 visitor nights at a traditionally quiet time. It is a widely-accepted fact that motor sport has consistently drawn some of the largest crowds to attend sporting events in Barbados in recent years. While island fans have yet to see one of their own competing on the world stage – something the Barbados Motoring Federation (BMF) is determined to correct in the next few years – their enthusiasm for motor sport is undiminished. Via the BMF, the island’s umbrella organisation for no fewer than six motor sport clubs covering every discipline from 92 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Ryan Wood & Gayle Hutchinson leave the start ramp in car 0 - Sol Rally Barbados 2017. Photo: Himal Reece courtesy of the Barbados Rally Club
circuit racing, through dragsters and karting to stage rallying, Barbados is affiliated to the world governing body, the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). This small Caribbean territory of just 166 square miles is among only 10 of the FIA’s 135 member countries with a population of below 1 million; with around 400 competition licence-holders annually, however, it has arguably the most active motor sport community per head of the population of any country in the world. All around the island, there is a pride in car ownership evident in everything from highly-polished near-current Mitsubishi Lancer Evos and Subaru Imprezas to equally spotless decades-old Toyota Corollas, running on expensive after-market rims and clearly the subject of regular TLC. In its more extreme forms, that fondness for the motor car throws up oddities such as rear spoilers that would not look out of place on a single-seater racing car looking, well, huuuugely out of place on the boot of a family saloon, or even the roof of one of the island’s many yellow and blue ‘mini-buses’. Over the last six decades or so, that islandwide enthusiasm has combined with an inherent organisational talent to become the solid foundation of the most professional and wide-ranging motor sport
‘industry’ in the English-speaking Caribbean. The Barbados Rally Club, which celebrated its 60th Anniversary in 2017, is the oldest organisation in the island devoted to a sport not involving a ball and was a pioneer of sports-tourism in the 1960s, long before the phrase had even been invented. Initially, invitations were issued to the motor sports fraternity around the region, particularly from Jamaica, to participate in the Club’s navigational rallies; then, as the original developer of the Bushy Park race track in St Philip in the 1970s, the Club’s net spread wider to include competitors from Europe and North America alongside those from around the region, some of whom remain visitors to this day. Just before last year’s Williams Industries International Race Meet at Bushy Park, Jamaica’s Silbourne Clarke, Chairman of the Caribbean Motor Racing Association, said: “Bushy Park holds many, many fond memories for those of us that have had the privilege to race here and, for some like myself from the inception of the track in 1971, the opportunity to make life-long friendships while taking part in the sport we all love.” Fast forward a couple of decades to the 1990s, during which the Barbados Rally Club started to concentrate on its core
M O T O R S P O R T business of rallying and the steady growth of its premier event, renamed Rally Barbados in 2003. In the past 15 or so years, the event has hosted around 500 overseas participants from 29 countries. While the biggest competitor base remains the UK and Ireland, competitors have come from as far afield as Australia, Japan, Kenya, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States. And the visitors get to win, too . . . although it will take some time for anyone to match island legend Roger Skeete’s record of 13 victories! Last year, Jamaica’s Jeffrey Panton and Michael Fennell Jnr survived a late-afternoon scare on the final day to claim a hat-trick of victories in their Ford Focus WRC06, leading home only the fourth podium lock-out by overseas competitors in the 28-year history of the event. Regular British visitors filled the next three places: second for Rob Swann and Darren Garrod (Subaru Impreza WRC S12B)
equalled their best result, while Roger Duckworth (Impreza S6), co-driven by Alun Cook, claimed his first podium and a fourth win in WRC-2 after a determined charge during the final afternoon carried them past Kevin Procter and Andrew Roughead (Ford Fiesta). Until the past couple of years, the BRC’s principal focus has been on attracting a regular flow of new competitors to the event, but a combination of years of worldwide television coverage and ‘wordof-mouth’ promotion now seems to be taking care of that side of things, as the event is now on many a competitor’s ‘bucket list’ – last year, for instance, the 79 individual overseas participants included 29 new to the event, and each brings family and friends along for the ride. So the Club has shifted its emphasis toward a more spectator-focussed approach. Supported by the island’s private sector Tourism Development Corporation (TDC),
Kevin Proctor & Andrew Roughead - Sol Rally Barbados 2017. Photo: Himal Reece courtesy of the Barbados Rally Club
Frans Verbaas & Kees Hagman - Sol Rally Barbados 2017. Photo: Nicholas Bhajan courtesy of the Barbados Rally Club
94 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
the Club partnered with tour specialists Rally Travel to offer Official Spectator Packages for 2017, which were launched at Europe's largest motor sport show, Autosport International (ASI) in the UK last January. Positive customer feedback remarks such as “I’m hooked on Barbados” and “if you’re thinking of doing it, it was magic!” from year one visitors - prompted Rally Travel to include Sol RB for a second year as the only non-WRC offering in its calendar. Rally Travel MD David Hutchinson says: “Our agreement for 2017 came very late so, by the time we were talking to potential customers at Autosport in January, many had already made their plans . . . but we did get an incredibly positive reaction. Sol Rally Barbados can, and should, become a 'must do' event on every motor sport fan's calendar.” After the first chapter of its life in the ‘70s, Bushy Park closed for nearly two decades,
Signing autographs - Sol Rally Barbados 2017. Photo: Nicholas Bhajan courtesy of the Barbados Rally Club
M O T O R S P O R T
Roger Duckworth & Alun Cook Photo: Nicholas Bhajan courtesy of the Barbados Rally Club
Parade of Nations Photo: Nicholas Bhajan courtesy of the Barbados Rally Club
Jeff Panton hits the wall. Photo: Corey Reece courtesy of the Barbados Rally Club
Vaucluse at night. Photo: Himal Reece courtesy of the Barbados Rally Club
Allan MacKay & Andrew Croney - Sol Rally Barbados 2017. Photo: Nicholas Bhajan courtesy of the Barbados Rally Club
96 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Kevin Flanagan & Dominic Adams - Sol Rally Barbados 2017. Photo: Corey Reece courtesy of the Barbados Rally Club
Dark Hole special stage. Photo: Himal Reece courtesy of the Barbados Rally Club
M O T O R S P O R T reopening in 1992, after which regional participation was quickly revived, and maintained well into the 21st Century. But it was the redevelopment of what is now branded Bushy Park Barbados which has helped place the island even more firmly on the global motor sport map. After the first phase of reconstruction was completed in nine months, the new venue was launched to the world with Top Gear Festival in May 2014. The Race Of Champions followed in December, with Red Bull Global Rallycross then the feature International event in 2015, all three of these events affording the venue – and its island home – priceless worldwide television and social media coverage. In 2016, the circuit management decided to create its own home-grown celebration of motoring and motor sport – the Barbados Festival of Speed – which starred three-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton in its inaugural year (reprising his earlier appearance at TGF); the mix of other international content, the Dreamers Banger Racers from the UK – a huge hit with local fans – and stunt bikes and Monster Trucks from North America, with a cross-section of local motor sport
disciplines attracted an influx of visitors from the region and further afield. Last October’s second iteration of BFoS, which starred former F1 Champion Jenson Button and current Sahara Force India driver Esteban Ocon, was the first International event to benefit from Bushy Park’s significant investment in all-arena lighting; the eight-hour event, which ran from day into night, included displays from the UK’s Twister Aerobatics team in its firstever performance in the Americas. The only European outfit certified to fly after-dark shows, the Twister team’s spectacular Twilight Pyrotechnic Display closed the show, leaving the packed house eager for more. The island’s ability to successfully stage major motor sport events with international appeal is helping to grow its reputation on the world stage in both circuit racing and stage rallying. In August last year, five years to the day after he first visited Barbados to break ground for the redevelopment of Bushy Park, FIA President Jean Todt returned the island; although he was there for only one day in his capacity as the United Nations Secretary General’s Special
Envoy for Road Safety, he toured Bushy Park to review the progress made by the BMF with projects assisted by the FIA Sports and Safety Grant programmes. In addition to the substantial funding received towards preparing the Bushy Park Development Plan in 2011, the FIA also supported a Senior Officials Training weekend in January 2013 and, most recently, the purchase of new safety equipment for the Barbados Rally Club, including a mobile fire suppression unit. Speaking to the media at Bushy Park, President Todt said: “You have an amazing facility. In Barbados, a small country of less than 300,000 population, there are a lot of skilled people with energy, passion and professionalism, which makes me very happy.” And, if the man at the top of the global motor sport pyramid is “very happy”, then those involved in organising and promoting motor sport in Barbados also have reason to be happy . . . and proud of their achievements, as their island home once again punches above its weight on the world stage.
From left to right: BMF President Andrew Mallalieu; Shannon Kirton, Amy Willis, FIA President Jean Todt & Kurt Seabra
Three-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton at the Festival of Speed 2016 at Bushy Park Barbados
98 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Radicals in action at Bushy Park
100 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
RUN ADOS B R A S B E T A R B E L E C ! S R A E Y 35
101 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
R
U
N
N
I
N
G
The Caribbean’s oldest road running festival celebrated its 35th year in December 2017. As usual most of the races started and finished at the picturesque Bay Street Esplanade overlooking the magnificent Carlisle Bay. For the first few years after its start in 1983 Run Barbados consisted of just two races, the “Bridgetown 10K” and the Marathon. Today, this exciting event has evolved into one of the premier sporting attractions on the island with five running races and a walk spread over three days.
O
102 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
ver the past three decades the Run Barbados Series has attracted a variety of runners of varying ages and abilities from recreational to world class and hailing from all over the world. In the last few years Run Barbados has enjoyed over 2,000 entries annually across the six events. Over eighty percent of the competitors visit from across the globe: Canada, USA, France, Spain, Germany, Malaysia, Colombia, Venezuela, UK, Sweden and many Caribbean islands. The island is easily accessible, with flights arriving daily from many major cities. The longevity and popularity of this significant event on the Barbados Sports calendar can be attributed to faithful runners, both locals and foreigners who return year after year and then spread the word to their friends and clubs back home. There are many visiting runners who have returned multiple times to attend Run Barbados. American Kim Goff, eleventime marathon winner in Barbados, visited for twenty-five years consecutively to take part in her cherished event. Although the choice of destination races around the world is endless the Barbados event has certain distinguishing characteristics that
encourage runners to return again and again. Maybe it’s the sheer beauty of the island or the laid-back atmosphere or the very friendly people and maybe it’s just a combination of many factors that result in a highly memorable runcation! The three-day schedule allows runners to take part in several events. A wonderful camaraderie results as old friends re-unite, new friendships are made and après run activities planned. It epitomizes the event slogan, coined by Alan Brookes (Canada Running Series) in 2000 when he was Race director in Barbados: “Come for the Run, Stay for the Fun!” The Fun starts on the Friday night with many runners donning outlandish costumes for the Fun Mile. The lively atmosphere continues throughout the weekend with live steel pan music on the routes and island style entertainment at the Finish line. Many runners cross the finish and dive into the sea before sampling local brews and food. In 2018, Run Barbados together with title sponsor the Cave Shepherd Group of Companies, will present its 36th edition: Cave Shepherd Marathon, Fortress HalfMarathon, Colombian Emeralds Int'l 10K, Cave Shepherd Visa Credit Card 5K, Ganzee 5K Walk for Charity and the Signia Fun Mile. Dec 7-9, 2018.
R
U
N
N
I
N
G
104 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
106 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Sailing B
A
R
B
A
D
O
S
STORY BY ANNE TINDALE, PHOTOS BY PETER MARSHALL
107 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
S
A
I
L
I
N
G
With its idyllic sailing conditions of fairly constant winds, flat seas and clear blue skies for most of the year, Barbados has continued to build its reputation as a premier venue for international yacht racing events throughout the past year, starting with the Barbados 50 Transatlantic Rally in November 2016. Sponsored by Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), Barbados 50 was organised by Jimmy Cornell of Cornell Sailing to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Barbados’ independence.
108 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Barbados 50 Transatlantic Rally entrants at anchor in Bridgetown
T
he epic voyage of over 5000 miles had a fitting start in London on July 31st, 2016. The yachts, all sporting banners made up of the distinctive Barbados national flag colours of blue and gold, sailed though London’s Tower Bridge as it opened for them at noon on that day. They spent half an hour circling in the historic Pool of London off the Tower of London before turning with the tide to make their way downriver to begin the commemorative Rally. Sailing on to the Cape Verde Islands via Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands, the fleet was joined by others along the way. A total of 33 yachts then set sail for Barbados on November 9th. Eleven days later, the French catamaran, Sir Henri 4, was the first yacht to arrive in Barbados to an enthusiastic welcome by Jimmy Cornell and members of BTMI on the newly constructed docking facilities in the Shallow Draft. Yachts continued to arrive over the next 2 weeks with only two failing to arrive in time for the 50th anniversary celebrations on November 30th. The Barbados 50 Rally brought sailors from many different nationalities to Barbados and most of the yachts had children on board, so it was fitting that the children were able to share their ocean adventures with some of the children of Barbados. To this end, local schools were
partnered with individual yachts and the children were able to communicate with each other via email while the boats were at sea. On arrival in Barbados, the young sailors visited the schools and met up with their email friends. In January 2017, the annual BTMI and Mount Gay Rum sponsored Mount Gay Rum Round Barbados Race Series welcomed yachts and sailors from many different countries around the world, especially the Northern Hemisphere, being seen as a perfect post-Christmas winter escape. Being sailed in January almost guarantees the sailors are treated to some of the best winds Barbados has to offer, known locally as ‘’Christmas winds”. This year’s Series, organised by the Barbados Cruising Club, comprised a 3 day Coastal Series and the Round the Island Race. Sailing in relatively flat seas and 17 to 20 knot breezes, the Coastal Series saw yachts doing battle in five different classes. The most hotly contested was the CSA Racing Class and local yacht, Whistler, helmed by Peter Lewis, emerged overall winner. The Round the Island Race then followed on January 21st, the birthday of the Right Excellent Errol Walton Barrow, Barbados’ first Prime Minister, “father” of independence and a founder member of the Cruising Club. The first ever organised Round Barbados Race was held on January 1st, 1936 when five trading schooners
The ‘Moth’!
Team Concise
The Blue Peter
109 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
S
A
I
L
I
N
G
competed for ‘’bragging rights” and a small prize. Winning the race in a time of 10 hours, 20 minutes was Lou Kennedy’s Sea Fox. The Race was revived in 2011 and now takes place annually on January 21st. The 60 mile course begins with a staggered start in Carlisle Bay and the boats then sail in a clockwise direction around the island, finishing back in Carlisle Bay. A variety of prizes are up for grabs with the most coveted of these being a quantity of Mount Gay Extra Old Rum equivalent to the weight of the skipper of any yacht that breaks any of the existing records. With a total of 14 records up for grabs this year, 29 yachts, including classics such as Adix, the Blue Peter, Tres Hombres and Ruth, set sail around the island. However, with relatively light winds for the time of year, only one of these records was broken; the Singlehanded Monohull record which was broken by Andres Berg from Germany aboard his Dufour 44, Luna. Also racing,
but not breaking his own record this time round, was Tony Lawson’s spectacular MOD70, Ms Barbados 10, who had broken the absolute Multihull record in 2016 with an amazing time of 2 hours, 37 minutes, 38 seconds in one of the most spectacular Round the Island Races in history. The Barbados Sailing Association’s premier regatta for 2017, the Barbados Old Brigand Rum Regatta, was sailed in early May. Competition was fierce, with local yachts Bunga Bunga, helmed by Charlie Gloumeau, emerging as overall winner of the J/24 Class and Mandy, helmed by Bruce Robinson, winning the Racer/Cruiser Class. Organisers of the Regatta placed a heavy emphasis on promoting it as a “green regatta” with the aim of protecting our marine environment from rubbish, especially plastic, entering the water. To this end, the Sailing Association partnered with Sailors for the Sea, an international organisation that invites all boaters worldwide to protect the
Nick Craig
OK Dinghies
110 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
OK Dinghy action
oceans. Having hosted the highly successful International One Metre World Championships in 2009, the Fireball World Championships in 2010, the SAP 505 World Championships in 2013 and the GP14 World Championships last year in 2016, Barbados welcomed 80 OK Dinghy sailors from 9 different countries in late May to compete in the OK Dinghy Worlds 2017, and then in early June a further 130 Finn Masters sailors were welcomed from 21 countries to compete in the Finn Masters Worlds 2017. Both events were sponsored by BTMI, and hosted by the Barbados Yacht Club and Barbados Cruising Club. Sailing in late May and early June, the sailors were presented with some challenging sailing conditions typical of that time of the year. The higher than normal seas swells and stronger than normal winds on some of the days made for some very interesting races, with even
S
A
I
L
I
N
G
the most experienced sailors being kept on their toes until the very end. With phrases such as “just perfect”, “fantastic”, “amazing”, “we want to come back” being constantly heard, the overall OK World Champion, Nick Craig from the UK, summed it all up: “It was a tricky week, we had some wind challenges, but overall just a fantastic place to sail. It’s so warm, the water’s warm, the beer’s cold; it’s fantastic.” At the closing ceremonies of both championships, the local Organising Committee, made up of members of the Barbados Sailing Association, was praised for its outstanding job, and neither championship could have taken place without the time and dedication of a large number of volunteers from Barbados’ sailing community. From lending their boats to serve as crash boats, mark boats and jury boats, to going out on the water to man these boats or staying ashore to man the beach and to help launch and
FINN Masters
retrieve the competitors dinghies, local sailors willingly gave of their time to ensure the events were such a huge success. Outside of hosting these various international sailing events, competitive sailing went on in Barbados throughout 2017. Very few weekends went by without there being a dinghy, J/24 or racer/cruiser regatta being sailed in Carlisle Bay or along the South and West coasts of the island. Some new sponsors including Armstrong Agencies, Golden Ridge Farms, R L Seale and Co Ltd and Stansfeld Scott joined long-time sponsors; Harris Paints, Lucky Horseshoe, Massy Stores, Taylor’s Cycle Centre, the Boatyard and Tiki Bar to make this all possible. Some of the most exciting racing was seen in the J/24 Class with the yachts competing in eight different regattas through the season to be crowned the 2017 J/24 National Champion. Being onedesign yachts, all have identical designs so that emphasis is put on the skills of the
sailors rather than on the equipment, and coming into the eighth and final regatta two boats, Bunga Bunga and College Fund$, were tied on points in the top spot. With it all coming down to the wire in that regatta, Bunga Bunga, helmed by Charlie Gloumeau, just edged out College Fund$, helmed by Nick Lashley, to be crowned overall Champion. The year’s sailing season came to an end with the National Dinghy Championships. Organised by the Barbados Sailing Association and sponsored by the Barbados Olympic Association, the Championships comprised a series of 25 races sailed over five weekends in various classes, including GP14, Laser, Topper, Sunfish and Optimist. Sailed between September and November, the Championships provided a fitting end to a packed and exciting year of sailing in Barbados.
Vladimir Krutskikh FINN Masters overall winner
BOA National Dinghy Championships BOA National Dinghy Championships
112 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
FINN Masters
Limegrove Lifestyle Center, Holetown, St. James 271-8230 Lower Broad Street, Bridgetown 430-2400 ∙ 8 broad street, Bridgetown 430-2422 Sandy Lane Hotel, St. James 444-2000 ∙ The Tamarind Hotel, St. James 419-2508 The Fairmont Royal Pavilion, St. James 419-2502 ∙ Turtle Beach Resort, Christ Church 418-1331 Royal Westmoreland, St. James 419-2510 ∙ Grantley Adams International Airport 430-2400 Waves, Prospect Bay, St. James 256-6041 ∙ Colony Club, Porters, St. James 422-2335 The Radisson Hotel, St. Michael 228-0146 DiamondsInternational.com
S
A
I
L
I
N
G
OK Dinghy action!
114 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
S O D A B BAR H C A BE E R U T L U C L A V I FEST , re featured u lt u C h c a jan Be indsurfing, stival of Ba e w F l, 7 a 1 iv 0 rn 2 a e c Th and street s, a t-shirt ell blowing h ie s rt h a c p n h o c c a , be SUPing around the g, surfing, d n in a rd a in o ld b e e kit ue all h Hosted Barbados. cricket leag , h s c d a n e a b S r e e th f the in Silv ure Village red some o lt tu u a C fe h c it a , ! e a B Man Talm et! Action!! n n o la ti p c A e e th d n tes o by Brian sports athle r te a w n o best acti
Youri Zoon
116 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Dr. Kerry Hall & Brian Talma
117 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
S
W
I
M
M
I
N
G
! I plan t i o d t jus st and i ate l t e k c u eople, b p t e a h t e r f g t of pristine . I met e n r “Take i i u s s r m i o w ack f oals. I many s g d e e to be b y m i o t j irst od, en many f d e v great fo e i h and ac waters mend.” m o c e r highly
M I SW BADOS R A B
118 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
!
119 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
S
W
I
M
M
I
N
G
Discovering Barbados as an open water swimmer is akin to stumbling on a treasure trove. The southwest and west coasts abound with spectacular open water swim sites. Crystal clear calm water that laps gently onto white sand beaches, little or no undertow and a wide variety of tropical fish, sea horses, octopus, sea turtles and reef squid to gaze at in wonderment while swimming.
D
iscovering Barbados as an open water swimmer is akin to stumbling on a treasure trove. The southwest and west coasts abound with spectacular open water swim sites. Crystal clear calm water that laps gently onto white sand beaches, little or no undertow and a wide variety of tropical fish, sea horses, octopus, sea turtles and reef squid to gaze at in wonderment while swimming. The Barbados Open Water Festival (BOWF), an annual event first held in 2013, is now an established sporting event on the island’s calendar and has grown in popularity with every passing year. Rob Kent of Global Swim Series and L.O.S.T swam in 2016 and wrote: “It was incredible! In just a few short years the Barbados Open Water Festival has turned into a major event on the open water swim circuit and now having experienced it, it is easy to see why!” The visiting swimmers rave about the ideal open water swimming conditions, the beauty of the island and the welcoming nature of the locals. Every year a plethora of Masters swimmers visit from the US, UK and Canada but swimmers really do come from across the globe with some journeying from as far away as Australia and Hong Kong. The event is also well supported by local open water swimming enthusiasts
120 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
and firm friendships have been built between visiting swimmers and the local swim community. In the early days the Festival consisted of two open water swim races (1.5K and 5K) but has since expanded to include a 3.3K and a 10K race as well as three days of pre-race weekend practice swims. The practice swims are highly popular as they allow visiting swimmers to swim at the race venue in Carlisle Bay as well as experience two other fabulous open water swim locations around the island (“Miami Beach” & Port St Charles Marina). The “post swim dinners” and lounging are much enjoyed and result in swapping of swim stories and lots of laughs. Swim conditions and beauty of the island aside, there is a wonderful camaraderie among the swimmers at this event. It’s this mix of fun and competition in a fabulous location with its laidback island-life setting that has resulted in excellent reviews and many repeat swim visitors. In the words of one of the visiting Festival swimmers: “Take it off the bucket list and just do it! I plan to be back for sure. I met great people, ate great food, enjoyed many swims in pristine waters and achieved many first time goals. I highly recommend.” The 2018 BOWF will offer 1.5K, 3.3K, 5K and 10K swims and is scheduled for November 7-11, 2018.
122 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
S
W
I
M
M
I
N
G
Gorgeous Carlisle Bay
124 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
DELI
SPECIAL
EVENT CATERING
RELISH=DESIRE SATISFIED
CAFÉ
The Relish Destinations: Relish Epicurea Lime Grove Lifestyle Centre Holetown • St. James T: 537 0077
Relish Fresh Café Simpson Motors North Showroom Warrens • St. Michael T: 421 0642 Find us on Facebook
S U R F I N G
OUNG UNS
CHELSEA TUACH
BRUCE MACKIE
DANE MACKIE
CHELSEA ROETT
JOSH BURKE
JACOB BURKE
CHE ALLAN
127 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
# l i v e l i k e z a n d e r
Zander Venezia 2 July 2001 - 5 September 2017 It was a breezy, sunny day in Barbados on the Tuesday before Hurricane Irma was about to hit the northern Caribbean. The storm was delivering waves to the East Coast of Barbados that surfers only dream of. Zander Venezia, at 16, had just won the Rip Curl Search in the Outer Banks. He was a junior pro surfer, extremely competent and had surfed in these conditions before. He was surfing with other pro surfers who had flown to the island in anticipation of the swell. He surfed for around four hours and told one of the pros Dylan Graves that he had just caught the best wave of his life. He was heading back to shore when the accident happened. The other surfers noticed his board floating and that he had not surfaced and rushed to help. Zander had tragically been tossed against the reef and despite the best efforts of everyone present did not recover. This fun loving lad, on the cusp of a brilliant surfing future was soon to travel to Japan to compete in the International Surfing Association World Junior Championships and then to finish off the year in California. Zander was a 6 time National Champion of Barbados and had also won multiple international titles including the coveted NSSA North America East Coast Regional Championships in April, being the second Caribbean national to ever win that title. Son to Louis and Lisa Venezia and brother to Bella, Zander will forever be remembered as a happy, talented, community minded young man. Barbados has lost a potentially great sporting icon and a beautiful soul.
128 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
DIVE BARBADOS Story & Photos by Lucy Agace
Photo: Lucy Agace
130 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Photo: Lucy Agace
131 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
D
I
V
I
N
G
Barbados is famous for its world class beaches, restaurants and rum but what about the scuba diving? With over 39 dive sites sprinkled mainly off the west and south coast barrier and fringing reefs, Barbados has plenty to offer the keen scuba diver. There are over ten fully equipped dive shops who provide excellent diving services. They escort divers of any ability on dives and can teach various dive courses to those who wishes to learn the sport or improve their level of ability.
132 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Photo: Lucy Agace
A
variety of hard and soft corals cover the Barbados reefs and brightly coloured sponges like orange, yellow and purple. All this is complemented by a profusion of beautiful Caribbean reef fish and pelagic fish. Schools of common reef fish like snappers, grunts, yellow goatfish, chromis and creole wrasse are seen throughout the reefs and around the wrecks. Trumpet fish ( a long thin fish), chub, yellow tail damsel fish, angel fish, and many species of butterfly fish inhabit the reefs, along with barracuda but they are quite rare these days. Barbados is also home to many pelagic fish such as, various species of jacks, tarpon, rainbow runners, cero and mackerels, there are others which fishermen catch, but we don’t see them on the reefs. There are the occasional sightings of manta rays, eagle rays, whale sharks (large and harmless), sun fish and some sharks. Sharks are a misunderstood creature and one of my favourites. The only ones you are likely to see whilst diving are nurse sharks off the north coast hiding in caves or under ledges, they are not found on our reefs at all. A favourite among divers and snorkelers are the many sightings of turtles which come to Barbados to lay their eggs from
May to July. Green turtles and Hawksbill turtles inhabit our shores but only Hawksbill turtles lay their eggs here. Also quite common on dive sites and the shallow near shore sandy areas are sting rays, these majestic creatures are harmless and will shy away from any human contact. But if you snorkel over them and just watch you can see them feed on fish scraps and search in the sand for food. Possibly one of the most popular sea creatures worldwide are seahorses, Barbados is so blessed to have seahorses on many dives sites but especially on one the Cement Plant Pier which is up in the north/west of the island. It is 95% guaranteed to see one in this area, especially if you dive with me. My record is 15 seahorses on one dive! I have seen them on other dive sights such as; Pamir, Carlisle Bay, Fishermans, Friar’s Craig and even on the mast of the SS Stavronikita wreck. They come in many colours yellow, orange and brown and are about 20cms long when their tail is curled around a piece of sponge which they do to anchor themselves. Here’s a tip; they are very often found near to the seabed. If you don’t dive you maybe be able to spot one whilst snorkelling in Carlisle Bay, they can be found curled around buoy ropes. However it doesn't stop there. Barbados has undoubtedly the best collection of
D
I
V
I
N
G
wrecks in the Caribbean. There are 11 wrecks in total - large and small, old and new, some are deep while others are shallow and easily accessible by snorkelling. Standing above all others, quite literally, is the freighter SS Stavronikita, she which was sunk on purpose in 1978 and lies at 135 feet. This impressive wreck is now covered in amazing corals, sponges and fish life and is the most often re-dived site in Barbados. Unique in the world is the Carlisle Bay Marine Park; with a collection of 6 wrecks all lying in a buoyed off area, it is possible to see all the wrecks on one guided dive. Sister ships the Pamir and the Friars Craig lie in excellent diving locations, one west the other off Hastings. Both provide awesome second dives, the Friars Craig often has a resident turtle and two reefs nearby and the Pamir has a yellow submarine adjacent to it, two wrecks for the price of one! The nearby reef has a colony of yellowhead jawfish which l think
looks like a fairy as it dances above its’ hole. Scuba diving in Barbados is a relaxed hassle free activity for all ages. Dive shops will pick you up from your hotel (there can be a small charge for this), kit you out with dive gear and take you on a guided dive along a reef pointing out anything of interest along the way. Children can dive from as early as 11 years old providing they are strong enough to carry a scuba tank. If you just want to have ‘a go’ Discover Scuba courses are also available. If you are a keen photographer then you will be happy to know that photographic opportunities are everywhere on all dives and snorkel trips. I also offer use of underwater photographic equipment if you would like to try and group or private underwater photography lessons. Contact me on lucy@scubachannels.com Perhaps the most exhilarating dive you can do is with Hightide dive shop, each week they take a dive to collect turtles
Photo: Lucy Agace
Photo: Lucy Agace
134 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Photo: Lucy Agace
which they bring up to the boat and give a full health check. If they are not already tagged then they are given a tag with a number. Anyone can book onto the dive or even just wait in the boat and see the turtle check process onboard, conservation in action! Whether you reside in Barbados or are visiting and need some equipment Hazell’s Waterworld in Carlisle Bay sells diving and snorkelling gear and some of the dive shops also do. For the seasoned diver there is also Nitrox air, available from a few dive shops. (Barbados Scuba Divers, Hightide, GFish, West Side Scuba) All Barbados dive centres do their best to enhance environmental awareness and take part in the coral re-planting program which is a new project run by CORALL. They do not indulge in or condone fish feeding, spear fishing (unless it’s a Lionfish), riding of marine life or collection of shells or coral. Lionfish were introduced to the Caribbean by accident a few years
D
I
V
I
N
G
ago off Florida and because of their ability to mature at an early age and lay millions of eggs a year and have a ferocious appetite for reef fish they now pose an enormous threat to all the reef stock throughout the region. Here on Barbados they are speared without mercy by most divers and spear fishermen. Once filleted they provide an excellent meal, in fact many restaurants on Barbados include the fish on their menus, it is delicious give it a try! Snorkelling If you are visiting the island for a short time it is recommended to use one of the many safari boats, found on any beach, to aid you. These boats offer 2-3 hour excursions to the various marine parks or
Photo: Lucy Agace
136 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
to snorkel with turtles. The west coast has two designated snorkelling areas, both within the Folkestone Marine Park. One is situated in a large buoyed-off area in north Holetown and you can swim out from the beach here and hire equipment from the onsite shop. The second park is situated a short distance from the beach in Holetown and most people get there by using the aforementioned safari boats. This second park has a small wreck, which has attracted a wealth of marine life. The whole area is teaming with fish such as chubs (locals call them Robins), sergeant majors, damselfish, chromis and wrasse. At lower levels in the wreck it is possible to see eels, squirrelfish and snapper and, on the surrounding reef, parrotfish, trumpetfish, butterfly fish,
surgeonfish, and smooth trunkfish passing by on their daily quest for food. Sea fans, sponges and hard corals of various sizes can be found here. The main snorkelling area in the south is the Carlisle Bay Marine Park wrecks, which are situated about half way around the bay and easily accessed from the beach. The wrecks are at various depths but all easily visible from the surface and offer snorkelers a perfect spot to see masses of fish and sometimes turtles. I have even spotted eels, seahorses and pipefish on my way out to the wrecks. For greater more in-depth information about the scuba diving in Barbados there is a detailed book called the Barbados Dive Guide available at most dive shops or on Amazon.
BUMPER MASTERS The Barbados International Masters Football Festival celebrated their 21st Anniversary with a Bumper attendance throughout the four day tournament. Traditionally held at Whitsun in early June, the Finals at Wanderers Dayrells Road have gone from strength to strength with a record attendance.
138 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
139 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
F
O
O
T
B
A
L
L
This is a unique festival boosting over 800 overseas visitors who are guaranteed to enjoy a huge football party. Centred at Wanderers clubhouse, the hallmark of this small committee is slick organization and efficiency. Spearheaded by Chairman Paul ‘Starsky’ Wright with staunch support from Grant ‘Doom’ Trebble and the effervescent Adrian ‘Ockey’ Donovan.
140 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
T
hey form the nucleus on the committee, but recognize a host of willing members in tandem. However, the Football Festival would be nowhere without the involvement of generous sponsors, who have played big parts including the principal sponsor Banks Breweries, Scotiabank and Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. Banks Beer is synonymous with the Football Festival, and the Brewery has the statistical records to identify with huge beer sales at Wanderers! ‘Life Nice’ is the culture of Banks beer and judging from the participants during the four days everyone enjoyed the event and the Banks. But there is plenty of action surrounding the Football Festival. Many of the participants combine the event with beach activities, catamaran cruises, island safaris, restaurants, and après nightlife. There is always something amazing to do in Barbados! The beauty about the Festival is that the schedule is adhered to with clockwork precision and other events can be planned with confidence. A recent innovation added by increasing demand is the over-50 category and it has been successfully competed during two tournaments. The Over-50 teams are based at Carlton in the early stages, with the Over-40 teams at Wanderers and Dover. All the semi-finals and finals are staged at Dayrell’s Road to ensure a bumper attendance and pumping
atmosphere with loads of food, refreshments and plentiful Banks beer. Returning visitors are regular participants, and it came as no surprise that Vincy Masters from St Vincent emerged the winners for the major prize. However, Wildey United did not give in easily after pounding the visiting keeper for long periods. Vincy managed a stalemate and then defeated Wildey 4-2 in the penalty shoot-out. One big disappointment was the penalty miss at first attempt from Gregory ‘Lalu’ Greenidge, and perhaps it set the tone for their demise. In the Over-50 competition that preceded the main event, Brooklyn Central from USA and Trinidad X-Men were also locked at 11. It was a thrilling exchange, which was eventually won by Brooklyn Central 4-3. Brooklyn finished runners-up in the main event in 2016 and X-Men were also runners-up in 2014. The tournament was concluded with the presentation of trophies and a rousing celebrations from the victors. Vincy Masters were also victorious in 2014 and 2008. The Barbados International Masters Football Festival is by Invitation because there is such a demand and there are limited places. Some clubs have been visiting 16 times so it has tested the time for popularity. If you want to be considered contact the Chairman of the Festival Organizing Committee Paul Wright by email paulwright426@gmail.com or call (246) 230 3900.
F
O
O
T
B
A
L
L
142 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
H O C K E Y
HOCKEY ON THE RISE!
144 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
WITH A BRAND NEW TURF AND REVAMPED FACILITY - HOCKEY IS MAKING A COMEBACK! PHOTOS: PETER MARSHALL
145 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
H
O
C
K
E
Y
Mark St. Hill is president of the Barbados Hockey Federation. He’s proactive and visionary. He shares that vision with Sporting Barbados... Mark St. Hill (centre) with Veterans Winners
You faced a few challenges when you were appointed as President. How have you progressed? We have a good team in place and we have set a simple framework that I hope the present and future Boards can use to manage hockey going forward. The objectives of the framework are: • To ensure the new surface and facility when operational is always maintained and its revenue potential realized. • Encourage increased volunteerism from the membership within 5 core segments. • Reduce the number of committees • Simplification The 5 core segments are: • Facilities Management We have begun transforming the surroundings via general clean up and creation of key advertising space for various sponsors. A number of sponsors already on board and have assisted us in allowing National teams to tour and keeping Barbados Hockey active on the International stage. Exciting development in the month of July as the installation of the new Astroturf commenced and should be completed by Aug 1. This is a significant development and forms the platform for the re-birth of the sport both on the domestic and international stage. 146 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
• Youth programs National Sports Council remains an integral pillar for the development of youth programs. We have recently appointed Mr. Ralph Watson to also represent the BHF as the Director of the Youth Program to assist us in further developing this key core segment. • Hockey Festivals The Hockey Festival continues to be the hallmark event for the BHF and through collaboration with key agencies such as the Tourism Development Corporation, Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc and Barbados Olympic Association we will now accelerate efforts to re-build the Festival in 2018. Other key festivals are currently being developed such as a Youth Festival attracting colleges from across the globe. • Domestic Leagues and Operations Management This is the engine room of the BHF and its membership. • Development and Selection of National Hockey Teams. Would you agree hockey has set us back for almost a decade? I would agree more from the perspective that we have lost a decade of revenues for the island and keeping Barbados Hockey on the international stage along with the significant reduction in clubs playing
H
O
C
K
E
Y
hockey. However, the interest remains high and we are continuously being asked by international clubs, tour operators and touring schools when is the Astroturf ready and I was delighted to share with the news on your international publication. “ITS FINALLY HERE”. Thank You Barbados Olympic Association: Thank You Pan American Hockey Federation: Thank You Tourism Development Corporation: Thank You National Sports Council. As you can see from the various stakeholders there is a strong desire to regain loss ground and we believe in our Hockey product. A small number of visitors still come to the Festival, but it is far cry from the halcyon years. What is your committee doing to change things? The interest is there as previously mentioned and once the Tour Operators are convinced the turf and the facility is back we are optimistic through focused
148 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
marketing at key events in the UK and US the spotlight on Barbados Hockey festival will return. Colleges are also been asking us to stage a Youth festival. We continue to receive numerous inquiries and the key ask is whether the Astroturf is ready. We are very excited. The overseas visitors certainly evaporated in recent times. Have the numbers also fallen with local clubs? Because of the inability to stage 11 a side hockey the numbers have dwindled. With the return of the turf the interest will return. Members have also been calling for a Masters/Veteran tournament, which signals the interest, desire and love is there. There was some criticism about the new ‘Hall of Fame.’ Why did this happen and what was the criteria?
The criticism unfortunately originated from outside the hockey membership, who was not aware of the criteria. The initial inductees were selected from the period 1958 to 1970 and this was one of the main criteria given to the independent committee to ensure these persons who were instrumental in laying the foundation for the sport were not overlooked. Some former hockey stalwarts would not have been in the period selected. Going forward we will be inducting two persons each year and the nominations must come from a playing club to be considered by the Board. Persons can be from any era going forward. The Hockey Membership was made aware of the criteria and nominations are now Open starting 2017. Thanks Mr. President for sharing your comprehensive vision for hockey going forward. Hockey Barbados is in good hands!
150 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
RUGBY SOARS 2017 was an action-packed year for rugby in Barbados, paving the way for an even brighter year to come in 2018. Regular annual events, increasing numbers of touring international teams, and a competition fiercer than ever before continue to ensure rugby here on the island soars to great new heights, and it’s only set to get even better! STORY BY AMY GOULDING, PHOTOS BY PETER MARSHALL
151 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
R
U
G
B
Y
Despite being one of World Rugby’s smallest full members, Barbados has a long historical connection with the game of rugby. In fact, the island is said to be the birthplace of rugby in the Caribbean, where the sport has been played since the 1900s thanks to the British troops who were stationed here. And, the historic Garrison Savannah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and tourist attraction in itself, remains the home of rugby in Barbados to this very day.
152 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
How it all began Despite being one of World Rugby’s smallest full members, Barbados has a long historical connection with the game of rugby. In fact, the island is said to be the birthplace of rugby in the Caribbean, where the sport has been played since the 1900s thanks to the British troops who were stationed here. And, the historic Garrison Savannah, a UNESCO World Heritage site and tourist attraction in itself, remains the home of rugby in Barbados to this very day. Founded in 1964, the Barbados Rugby Football Union (BRFU) is the governing body for the rugby on the island and performs duties including organising national team fixtures, training sessions, domestic rugby activities, and incoming tours. Since its initial formation, the BRFU has become a full member of World Rugby as well as Rugby Americas North (RAN), and due to the Rugby Sevens debut at the 2016 Rio Olympics, it is now a full member of the Barbados Olympic Association Inc. (BOA). So, it’s fair to say that over the years, rugby in Barbados has seen a steady increase in popularity and as the island continues to be a renowned premier sporting destination, it attracts between eight to ten overseas teams per year, including clubs from the UK, Canada, and neighbouring Caribbean islands. Touring
rugby teams and clubs are always warmly welcomed to Barbados and are guaranteed not only infamous Bajan hospitality, but also top quality rugby and competitive matches; the perfect blend of lively sports action and friendly socialising for any visitor to our shores! We’ve come a long way Rugby in Barbados has come a long way from just one single team, to today comprising four men’s clubs teams, and one senior women’s team. Internationally, the Barbados National Senior and U-19 Men’s 15s, the Senior Women’s 7s, and Rugby Barbados 7s teams all strongly and proudly represent Barbados. Girls and boys U-17 teams have both also started entertaining visiting overseas school sides with 15-a-side, 10-a-side and 7-a-side matches all played at the Garrison Savannah. The World Rugby ‘Get Into Rugby’ (GIR) Programme is another recent addition to the local rugby scene and has an active membership in Barbados who work tirelessly to expand its reach into local schools. The Programme introduces over 1000 children each year to the sport and because of this growth, a newly-formed GIR Barbados will be soon be responsible for the management and administration of the GIR Programme in Barbados. It will also become an official affiliate of the
R
U
G
B
Y BRFU; another exciting step forward for rugby in Barbados. Impressively, the longest running Club Rugby 7s Tournament in the Caribbean is now also held annually in Barbados in December after being relocated from Trinidad in 2016. The Rugby Barbados World 7s Tournament features some of the best men’s and women’s club teams from across the globe, with an average of 20 teams now making their way to Barbados just to compete!
World 7s Tournament on 8—9 December. Plans are currently underway to increase the number of participating international teams in the Rugby Barbados World 7s Tournament to 40, with the introduction of an Under-17s category being seriously considered. Interested teams can officially register for the 2018 Tournament from April. For more Tournament information, follow the Rugby Barbados World 7s Facebook page, or visit www.rugbybarbadosworld7s.com.
What does 2018 have in store?
Barbados – a premier sporting destination
Alongside other annual tournaments and free weekly games throughout the January to March domestic rugby season, you may be lucky enough to be in Barbados when the BRFU hosts a leg of the RAN Senior Men’s Championships. Later in the year, between September and November, the domestic 7-a-side competition will take place, followed by the Rugby Barbados
154 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
Barbados is a popular destination amongst all sporting enthusiasts, and rugby players and fans are no exception. Year after year, Barbados continues to be a destination of choice for touring rugby teams as well as keen spectators, and it certainly does not disappoint. See you in Barbados!
C O M M U N I T Y
Chefette Celebrates 45th Anniversary through local sports Chefette Restaurants, an indigenous, family owned, Barbadian brand, is celebrating its 45th anniversary by continuing to heavily support local sports and athletes in Barbados through various disciplines such as Motorsports, Track & Field, Cricket, Football, etc. Chefette’s marketing strategy is to promote a more balanced & active lifestyle especially among the youth through these sponsorships, Brand Ambassadors and use of its 9 MEGA multi-storey Playgrounds across Barbados. Chefette Brand Ambassador, Akela Jones, is a Barbadian track and field athlete who holds records in the women's heptathlon, pentathlon, long jump and high jump. Akela won gold in the long jump at the 2014 World Junior Championships and in 2015, she was NCAA champion in the heptathlon, and won bronze in the high jump at the Pan American Games. At the Olympics held in Brazil in 2016, Jones placed 20th in the heptathlon, and also competed in the high jump event. In another sponsorship collaboration,
Chefette and Tridents Pride of Barbados, signed up a multiyear partnership of the T20 franchise, which competes in the Caribbean Premier League. The partnership has helped Chefette and the Tridents fan bases share the passion for the game through marquee in game events with iconic Chefette marketing at Kensington Oval and cricket themed promotions in the restaurants. Chefette is also heavily involved in Motorsport through its popular Speed Team Drivers (Roger Mayers, Barry Mayers & Rhett Watson) And is also the official Restaurant sponsor of the Barbados Rally Club, the BRC Marshals and Sol Rally Barbados. Over the years Chefette has assisted a number of organizations by providing prizes, trophies and monetary funds to students participating in numerous sporting events locally. Since 2015 Chefette has been supporting the under 13 Pro-Shottas Soccer school and Kickstart’s under 13 Football Clubs. Also receiving support
The National Association of Primary Schools’ Athletic Championship (NAPSAC)
156 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
since 2011 is The National Association of Primary Schools’ Athletic Championship (NAPSAC). In addition, Chefette also sponsors the Barbados Island Fit Games (BIG), the Barbados Federation of Island Triathletes (BFIT) and the Barbados Surfing Association. This year will mark the sixth Anniversary of the Chefette Fun Run. This fantastic community event provides Chefette and its co-sponsors with a golden opportunity to continue the legacy of the late Dame Olga Lopes-Seale, the first patron of this event. Our main goal is to continue to raise funds which will allow us to make meaningful donations to selected charities to provide clothing & meals to the less fortunate kids in Barbados. Chefette Restaurants is the largest Restaurant Chain in Barbados, presently operating 15 Quick Service Restaurants, consisting of 14 Pizza Locations, 2 BBQ Barns (Fast Casual Restaurants), 11 DriveThrus and 9 MEGA Playgrounds.
Chefette Fun Run
Chefette’s Managing Director Ryan Haloute with members of the Tridents Pride of Barbados
Chefette Brand Ambassador - Akela Jones
Under 13 Pro-Shottas Soccer School
157 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
S Q U A S H
SQUASH FOR ALL
Ladies Finalist Barbados vs Canada
The Barbados Squash Club (BSC) is located in Marine Gardens, Christ Church and is the place where fun loving squash players go to break a sweat on court and to sip a few beers and talk about their match afterwards. There are three international (softball) singles squash courts at the BSC, two of which are glass-backed and air-conditioned. The main championship court at the BSC is one of the best for viewing in the Caribbean and also has a video camcorder permanently installed, as well as a wi-fi camera that delivers high quality live streaming video feeds to USTREAM during most of the events held during the year.
10th Anniversary BCQS Jammin 2017 Tournament
158 / SPORTING BARBADOS 2018
The club currently has six experienced, professional coaches: Karen Meakins, Rhett Cumberbatch, Lilianna White, Marlon White, Gavin Cumberbatch and Shawn Simpson who hold 29 national squash titles between them so they know their way around a squash court! With one call to the club you can arrange coaching sessions with one of them at times that are convenient to your busy work schedule and active lifestyle. If you are a visitor to these shores and plan on staying in beautiful Barbados for a while, you may wish to play in one of the BSC leagues, ladders or tournaments. Or you
may simply be looking for a game while you’re here. If so, you can call the club (4277913) and ask for either Tony or Donna and they will arrange a game for you with a local player around your own standard. In 2018 the BCQS Jammin’ Barbados Squash Masters will run from May 17th through 20th and the BSC invites you to take part in this dynamic age group competition for players in the +35, +45, +55 and +65 brackets. You can be assured of an exciting competition, with players from across the globe competing with exceptional skill, sportsmanship and camaraderie. The tournament climaxes with a Fun Cruise along the beautiful west coast of the island. It is not to be missed! Local spectators always enjoy seeing new overseas players bringing their flair and skill to these shores. The Masters “winning spirit” is always evident and overseas participants always leave with lasting memories of the warm and genuine Bajan hospitality exhibited at the Barbados Squash Club – your home away from home!! Meet us at the Barbados Squash Club any day of the week for some exciting and vibrant sporting fun. You won’t regret you did.
When the conditions are unpredictable you need a watcch that isn’t. 900 feet feet below sea level is no place to find out that your watch won’t ffunction uncti unction at 900 below sea level. That’s why ever y Bremont watch is fit ffo or ruthlessly engineered to be fit purpose. However extreme that purpose might be. Anywhere you can go, a Bremont fur ther. can go too. And usually fur Your Bremont is probably tougher than you are. The new Supermarine Type 301 has been hand-built and tested on British shores, at our headquar ters in Henley-on-Thames. Sure, it has its limits, but you’re ind them. unlikely to ever ffind
British Engineering. Tested Beyond Endurance.
Cruise Te Terminal, Bridgetown, St. Michael T: 431-9217
cartier.com Cartier Boutique - Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, Holetown, St. James T: 271 8234 Diamonds International - Lower Broad Street, Bridgetown T: 430 2400 \ Sandy Lane Hotel - Holetown, St. James T: 246-432-0076