General

Today, all eyes are on the twin-island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago as it hosts the VII Commonwealth Youth Games (CYG). This prestigious event, organized by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF), aims to promote youth and sports development across the Commonwealth nations. Learn about the history of the Commonwealth Games and the significance of the CYG as an opportunity for small, developing nations to showcase their organizing capabilities and foster sporting talent. Get to know the participating Vincentian athletes and their journey to this international competition. As the games kick off, we wish all athletes the best and hope they shine on the global stage.

CANOC to celebrate 20th anniversary

On Monday, July 31, 2023, the Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) will commemorate its 20th anniversary across its member National Olympic Committees (NOC) and Commonwealth Games Associations (CGA). Last year, during the Elective General Assembly in Trinidad and Tobago, hosted by the country’s Olympic Committee (TTOC), the organization observed its 20th founding anniversary. The new executive, which emerged from the General Assembly, agreed on a year-long celebration to mark this historic milestone. Various media outlets have covered the consistent celebratory activities undertaken by CANOC in the past year.

Rationale

The formation of CANOC stemmed from the need for collaboration among national multisport organizations across the Caribbean region. Previously, NOCs and CGAs operated independently, focusing solely on their international engagements without considering regional unity and cooperation. The Caribbean’s colonial history and political events influenced the individualistic approach of sporting organizations during the first half of the 20th century. However, there were progressive elements within some organizations who recognized the importance of working together to effect meaningful and lasting change.

From Caribbean Caucus to CANOC

The journey to CANOC’s establishment began with the Caribbean Caucus of NOCs (CCNOC) and the idea of organizing the Caribbean Games. Over time, the CCNOC evolved into CANOC, aiming to serve as a coordinating body for regional multisport events. In 2003, during the inaugural General Assembly of CANOC, the constitution was approved, and the organization officially came into existence.

CANOC confronts the challenges

CANOC faced challenges in the early years, particularly in realizing the Inaugural Caribbean Games. Although the first attempt at hosting the Games faced setbacks, the organization persisted in its Olympic Education initiatives and extended its reach and influence. The Covid-19 pandemic further complicated matters, leading to the postponement of the Games, but CANOC’s commitment to showcasing Caribbean resilience and unity never wavered.

Happy 20th anniversary

As CANOC celebrates its 20th anniversary, it reflects on its role in shaping and reshaping the Caribbean. The organization remains steadfast in its commitment to building Caribbean unity and developing the region through sport. Just as sport has historically brought about meaningful change in societies worldwide, CANOC continues to work towards a unified Caribbean.

The recent ouster of the West Indies cricket team from the Cricket World Cup 2023 qualifying tournament has left fans and officials in disbelief. Prime Minister Keith Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago expressed his disappointment, stating that it was the worst cricket match ever played by a West Indies team. The team’s defeats against the Netherlands and Scotland, both considered cricketing minnows, have highlighted the ongoing decline of West Indies cricket. Reflecting on the history of West Indies cricket, there have been periods of success and failure, glory and disappointment. From the colonialist era to the leadership of Frank Worrell and the dominant era of players like Viv Richards and Clive Lloyd, West Indies cricket once struck fear in the hearts of opponents. However, in recent years, the team’s performance has steadily declined, leading to a lack of interest from other nations in hosting matches against them. Prime Minister Rowley’s scathing criticism of the team’s performance is justified, as the decline has been evident for decades. The allure of money and the rise of shorter versions of the game, like the Indian Premier League, have shifted the focus from skill and professionalism to financial gains. Many young cricketers in the Caribbean prioritize money over the sport’s history and the values it represents. The issues plaguing West Indies cricket reflect a broader problem in Caribbean society, where moral and ethical standards have eroded over time. The lack of exemplary leadership from politicians and officials has contributed to this decline. As Prime Minister Rowley aptly noted, the embarrassment faced by the West Indies team didn’t happen overnight; it has been a long time coming.

Over the past months and years, international sports have been plagued by conflicts and challenges that call for a comprehensive re-evaluation of how we perceive and prepare for the future of sports. Caribbean sport administrators, except for a few, have struggled to actively participate in decision-making processes of international sports organizations, perpetuating a legacy of subservience. Despite showcasing exceptional talent, our administrators often submit to international authorities, undermining the belief in our equality.

The recent controversies surrounding FIFA, the emergence of the European Championships, the proposed European Super League, and the struggles of boxing and other sports demonstrate the complex dynamics at play. Financial interests, lack of ethics, and power imbalances overshadow the values of good governance, fair play, and athlete well-being.

As Caribbean nations, it is crucial that we engage in discussions and actively pursue our collective interests within international sports organizations. We must critically analyze existing models, including those of the IOC and the Olympic Games, to determine the best course of action for our region.

The future of international sport hangs in the balance, and it is imperative that we reflect on the direction we want it to take. The influence of money and self-righteousness within sports politics must be confronted, and rigorous principles applied uniformly to ensure fairness and transparency.

Together, we can shape a future where Caribbean sports administrators play an equal and influential role, safeguarding the values of sport and championing the interests of our athletes and nations.

“CANOC Congratulates CCS President on XXIV CAC Games and Celebrates International Olympic Day 2023”

Over the past decades, our country has experienced a mix of success and failures in sports. Unfortunately, we haven’t always learned from our lessons, which is disheartening. However, when we have had positive experiences, they give us a glimpse of what is possible. Sport is a human right and contributes to the holistic development of individuals, a reality we often overlook. It’s regrettable that educators sometimes clash with sports enthusiasts due to the misconception that sports hinder academic growth. History reveals how certain groups were pushed into sports and music based on racist beliefs. Despite these challenges, many once colonized peoples have showcased their talent and intelligence through sports, art, drama, and music.

In St. Vincent and the Grenadines, cricket has been deeply ingrained due to its colonial past, symbolizing the pleasure of the colonizers and reinforcing the inferior status of the people. While some countries still struggle with this legacy, St. Vincent and the Grenadines is gradually emerging from the shadows. The history of our society reflects a persistent struggle for freedom through sports, despite the broader society’s struggle to define itself. Many of us find ourselves torn between being Naipaul’s “mimic men” and Lamming’s “castle of my skin.” The reality may be that we resemble Fanon’s concept of “the wretched of the earth” on which we live.

There are inspiring stories of Vincentian athletes who have pursued education and career opportunities through sports. Wendell Hercules, Lenford ‘Poui’ O’Garro, Jacqueline Ross, Eversley Linley, Orde Ballantyne, Carl Ollivierre, Sonia Israel, Garth Saunders, Nickie Peters, Adonal Foyle, Eswort Coombs, Natasha Mayers, Kineke Alexander, Shafiqua Maloney, and Handal Roban are some notable examples. These individuals have achieved success in various fields while utilizing their athletic abilities. It’s time to abandon the belief that sports lead to a loss of instructional time and a dead end in life. Our education system should embrace the evolving trends in sports and offer more open and creative delivery to our students.