Return to Easter sporting activities

WE KNOW, UNDERSTAND and accept that changes are inevitable. However this may be the case, in some instances, a paradigm shift is not always the best.

This column specifically refers to the almost non-existence of traditional events and sporting activities around Easter time, specifically, the hosting of the clubs from across the region.

Bit by bit, some things have just slipped by, gone unnoticed, while foreign, cultural infiltration gnaws away at ours, leaving us bare threads of our pastimes, norms, customs and mores.

But we have been victims of our own undoing as our lack of focus as to what helps our respective communities continue to thrive with a greater level of consciousness, is left in ruins.

Hurtfully, as a result of mass media influence, instead we are slowly but surely being influenced by foreign cultures, giving rise to Easter Egg Hunt, as practised by some organizations as promotion for activities for Easter.

The imports too, have eclipsed the green leaf and doucana-go-down, just to name two, as some of the traditional games that occupied Easter in the past.

Thankfully, there is some kite flying and marble pitching that take place around this time, with the latter oozing its way back in small steps.

Apart from the traditional games, gone are the days, when sports clubs, government ministries, and statutory bodies from neighbouring countries will descend on St Vincent and the Grenadines for four to six days of sports, fun and frolic.

Yes, the influx of persons from the region provided a fillip for our Tourism industry back then.

However, such direct benefits have dwindled to an almost halt.

Indeed, the impact of the coronavirus in 2020, and the subsequent volcanic eruptions the following year, would have played their part in the slow down.

Whilst the two events were possible contributors to the downturn in sporting activities held at Easter, signs were evident prior.

One plausible cause may be the high cost of regional travel.

Notwithstanding the fact, many of the social clubs within the organisations do not have the personnel with the drive and fervour as existed in the past.

Significantly too, we have seen over time that Easter itself, which traditionally was observed with a high degree of solemnity and reflective actions, has evolved into a festive period.

But as we ponder and look for answers, one thing is certain- that sporting activities at this time of year are missing ingredients.

To rekindle some semblance of Easter Sports, the respective communities across St Vincent and the Grenadines have to play their part in reshaping their locales through activities that not only sustain some practices, but serve as social cohesive incidentals.

Relatedly, some local entity as a matter of urgency, needs to fashion a sporting event with a regional participation focus, with the potential of attracting teams to our shores once again.

It will not be a bad idea for the newbies in full scale Football competitions, FC Sweaterz to add a regional component to their Over-40s football roster. That organization, which from March 16 to April 13, 2025, put on a very successful local exercise, can begin to explore and expand its reach.

It is also not too early for them to explore an Over-50s tournament that dovetails with their local competition.

Similarly, there can be an inter- regional Track and Field event, preferably targeting groups and organizations.

Even further, what about a regional Youth Football Cup; an Easter Junior Tennis Tournament?

We have to get with it again, as the easier access to travel to and from St Vincent and the Grenadines, acts as a plus to potential organisers of sporting events for Easter.

Our country is ripe for the promotion of sporting events at Easter. It is for some people with the vision now to act and turn ideas and proposals into realities.

Happy Easter All!!