Gymnastics in Barbados is poised for a major leap forward following a recent visit from International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) President Morinari Watanabe, who pledged strong technical support to help develop the sport across the island.
During his visit, which coincided with the Barbados Amateur Gymnastics Association’s (BAGA) Trident Classic at the Wildey Gymnasium, Watanabe met with Minister of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment, Charles Griffith, and other key stakeholders to chart a course for the sport’s future.
Griffith reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to place gymnastics on a full developmental path, starting with targeted investments in coaching, officiating, and talent development.
"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 said at the Garfield Sobers Sports Complex.
The minister added that nearly two dozen athletes have been identified as future standard-bearers for Barbados in regional and international competition, with consistent training and structured support forming the backbone of the developmental agenda.
In response, Watanabe pledged to send at least one FIG-certified coach to the island and encouraged Barbados and its regional neighbours to set clear goals for Olympic participation.
"I believe Barbados can be the hub for gymnastics in the Caribbean, and we will provide the necessary technical support,” said Watanabe, who also praised the island's enthusiasm and potential for growth in the sport.
Griffith also revealed plans for a permanent home for gymnastics as part of a new multi-disciplinary sports facility currently under consideration.
The discussions also opened new doors for parkour, a dynamic discipline involving running, vaulting, and climbing through urban or obstacle-filled environments. FIG officials expressed interest in introducing this sport to Barbados, highlighting it as part of gymnastics' global evolution.
Watanabe also shared insights into innovations being embraced by the sport, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in judging, which he noted has been well-received by athletes as it is already in use internationally.
BAGA President Sheldene Pinder revealed that there are currently 167 active gymnasts across eight clubs in Barbados, as she made a heartfelt appeal for essential equipment to support the sport’s continued growth.
“We need beams, vaults, and floor apparatus to ensure gymnastics thrives in Barbados and across the region,” Pinder declared.
Meanwhile, Griffith reiterated his ministry’s unwavering support and pledged to work hand-in-hand with FIG and BAGA to ensure gymnastics reaches its full potential.
Caption: Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment, Charles Griffith, shakes hands with FIG President, Morinari Watanabe (Photo: Barbados Today).