Senior athletes to bring parish pride to the National Senior Games

For the first time in its 21-year history, athletes in the Barbados National Senior Games will not only be competing for personal glory, they will also be carrying the pride of their constituencies.

As the 2025 edition of the Games launched on Saturday with a colourful motorcade through Bridgetown, competitors beamed with excitement at the chance to represent their home communities on the national stage, adding a fresh layer of purpose and rivalry to the long-standing celebration of active ageing.

Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Kirk Humphrey, said remaining active is key to maintaining good health.

“As you know, Barbados is an ageing society. We believe that if you are active, you live longer and live better and that is what the Senior Games are about,” he told the crowd gathered at Golden Square Freedom Park. “From the very beginning, that was the idea behind the Games.”

Opening with a motorcade that departed from Pelican Village, the convoy which included energetic cheerleaders, athletes, and representatives from participating sporting bodies, made their way through the streets of Bridgetown before arriving at Golden Square Freedom Park.

A standout moment during the 30-minute movement session led by fitness instructor Spinny came when he invited 71-year-old attendee Audrey Archer on stage for the “Follow my Lead” segment. Rising to the occasion, Archer demonstrated that age is truly just a number as she displayed her dance skills to Quan De Artist’s Crop Over tune Waistline.

Members of the National Assistance Board Unity Dancers further energised the atmosphere, skilfully incorporating fans into their line dancing routine and drawing cheers from the crowd. Entertainment was also provided by RPB and TC who maintained the party vibe.

More than 300 participants have registered so far, with athletes expected from Brazil, the United States, Trinidad, and St Lucia.

Coordinator Ytannia Wiggins, told Barbados TODAY, “For the National Senior Games this year, this portion of the year we have dedicated it to track and field events. On May 31, it is going to be the field events, held at Queens College, and that is going to be all throws.”

This will be followed by the road race on June 1 with cycling, walking, running and for the first time the skating community will be participating.  This event will take place at 6 a.m. on the Mighty Grynner Highway.

The marquee event, which will see the athletes hitting the track, will be held on June 9th at the Usain Bolt Complex.

Registration remains open and can be completed online. (STT)