Barbados has strengthened its commitment to the growth of gymnastics through a collaborative initiative with the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) and the Barbados Amateur Gymnastics Association (BAGA), with plans also underway to introduce the dynamic sport of parkour to the island.
The announcement came during discussions between Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment, Charles Griffith, and FIG President Morinari Watanabe, held at the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex. The talks coincided with the hosting of the Trident Classic by BAGA at the Wildey Gymnasium.
Minister Griffith confirmed the government’s intention to pursue full-scale development of the sport, with a focus on building technical capacity across all levels.
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“We are looking for a full developmental process starting with the coaches because that is required, but it should also include our judges and officials. Ideally, we would welcome a trainer to Barbados for a period to help develop local capacity,” Griffith stated.
He emphasized the importance of consistent training and early talent identification, suggesting that approximately two dozen athletes could be selected to represent Barbados in regional and international competitions.
In response, FIG President Watanabe pledged his organization’s support, including the deployment of at least one coach to assist with local development. He also encouraged the Caribbean to set clear goals for Olympic participation.
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“I believe Barbados can be the hub for gymnastics in the Caribbean, and we will provide the necessary technical support,” Watanabe said.
Minister Griffith echoed this vision, noting that the government is actively pursuing the establishment of a permanent home for gymnastics within a new multi-sport facility.
Discussions during Watanabe’s visit also opened the door to the introduction of parkour in Barbados. Parkour is a fast-growing discipline involving agile movements such as running, climbing, vaulting, and jumping through urban or obstacle-filled environments.
Watanabe highlighted the global evolution of gymnastics, including innovations such as the integration of artificial intelligence to assist with judging—a technology already in use internationally and welcomed by athletes.
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BAGA President Sheldene Pinder reported that Barbados currently has 167 active gymnasts across eight clubs. She also made a call for critical equipment such as beams, vaults, and floor apparatus to support continued growth.
“We need beams, vaults, and floor apparatus to ensure gymnastics thrives in Barbados and across the region,” Pinder said.
Minister Griffith reaffirmed the government’s support for gymnastics, pledging ongoing collaboration with stakeholders to ensure the sport reaches its full potential on the island.
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