Pamela Hiles
Editor - Sporting Barbados
Welcome to the 28th Edition of Sporting Barbados! Showcasing our incredible sporting experiences to the world!
The ‘brand’ Sporting Barbados has grown and changed just like the world around us. We are an award winning quality print magazine that depicts this island in a totally unique light – drawing people to the island for something other than sun, sea and sand. Showcasing the marvelous sporting events and opportunities available on a place only 166 square miles.
Now we are a force online with a strong website www.sportingbarbados.com and popular social media platforms. You want to find out what’s happening with major sports events on the island, you look at our media. We post every day and the team spends hours researching to bring you the most up-to-date information.
In this edition we celebrate 100 years of Rockley Golf Club. This little nine hole course sits like an oasis on the South Coast of the island and although certainly not the most difficult course on the island, it presents a challenge and has the best 19th Hole! Congrats to Rockley and we look forward to seeing it grow and prosper.
We also are happy to highlight football, rugby, cricket, motor sport, polo, horseracing, equestrian, sailing, diving, squash, golf, ocean swimming and more. There is something for everyone in Sporting Barbados! Not to mention a plethora of other activities and restaurants to compliment the perfect holiday!
So much is happening on this island when it comes to Sports Tourism and I invite you to read the wonderful work being done by the Ministry of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment and the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport in their forewords. Thank you Ministers for this valuable contribution and insight into what is planned for the exciting future.
Sports tourism is a fundamental axis which generates around 10% of the worlds tourism expenditure. Whether a participant or spectator, the contribution to the economy by sports tourism is due to grow by 17.5% between 2023-2030 (Sports Tourism Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis Report ). Research shows visitors are more interested in sports activities during their trips and destinations need to distinguish themselves by providing authentic local experiences. We know how Mega events like the Cricket World Cup can bring millions in revenue to the island. Let’s keep Barbados at the forefront of this niche.
Sporting Barbados won’t happen without a team! Heartfelt thanks to our sponsors who keep us going every year – many who have been with us from the start – their loyalty and vision is truly appreciated. Our many contributors and photographers produce amazing news on their loved sports to keep everyone current on what’s happening and some truly stunning photography.
Thank you to Neil Barnard whose consistent quality and brilliance keeps Sporting Barbados at the top of the design table.
And very important in this modern world, our social media team led by Kim Barnard who keep you up to date on what’s happening and make sure our Sporting Barbados partners are always in the forefront.
Turn the pages, feel the excitement and come and be part of what we have to offer as a paradise island which is so much more than just a sun destination.
Pamela x