The Garrison Savannah came alive on Saturday, June 21, as the Barbados Olympic Association Inc. (BOA) hosted an evening of fun sporting activities to celebrate Olympic Day 2025. Under the theme “Let’s Move – Together,” the historic venue was transformed into a dynamic hub of athleticism, unity, and enjoyment for all ages.
The festivities began with spirited inter-federation competitions that saw national sporting bodies competing across several disciplines. Tennis emerged as the morning’s standout, securing top honours in both Tag Rugby and 5v5 Football. Equestrian captured the Rounders finale, while Boxing delivered a strong performance to finish second.
Adding to the excitement, elite rugby athletes and sisters Jessica and Crystal Derrell led a hands-on clinic, providing young participants with an opportunity to engage with the sport under expert guidance.
Sports Showcases and Glow in the Dark 3K
Eleven national federations showcased their sports during the day, including Boxing, Golf, Gymnastics, Motorsport, Netball, Rowing, Rugby, Taekwondo, Tennis, Weightlifting, and Wrestling. Attendees had the opportunity to interact with athletes, try their hand at new sports, and learn more about each discipline.
Complementing the competitive action were lively family-friendly zones filled with interactive games and activities. Popular attractions included the Kick-a-ton, Flag Wrestling, Basketball Arcade, Rowing Challenge, Golf and Tennis Clinics, and a Football-themed Bean Bag Toss. A Jumping Tent and Jenga helped create a festive atmosphere for children and families.
As the sun set, the celebrations took on a new glow, literally, with the BOA’s Glow in the Dark 3K Run, Walk, and Ride, held in honour of its 70th Anniversary. More than 350 participants lit up the Savannah with glow sticks following a high-energy aerobic warm-up. The electric atmosphere pulsed with music, movement, and togetherness. The night ended with a spectacular three-minute fireworks show, generously donated by Amal Reid of Caribe Fire FX.
Olympic Day Celebrations Continue in Schools with HYPE Day
While June 21 marked the official Olympic Day event, the celebrations extended into schools across Barbados from Monday, June 23, with the hosting of Healthy Youth through Physical Education (HYPE) Day. This initiative, organised by the BOA in partnership with the Ministry of Educational Transformation, encouraged schools, especially primary schools, to participate in their own fun, educational, and physically active celebrations, promoting physical activity and wellness.
Schools were invited to host events aligned with the “Let’s Move – Together” theme, including sporting games, movement challenges, presentations on healthy lifestyles, and more. Several schools, including St. Christopher Primary, A. Dacosta Edwards Primary, St. George Primary, Cuthbert Moore Primary, St. Margaret’s Primary, and Springer Memorial Secondary, participated in HYPE Day. To recognise their participation and creativity, schools have been encouraged to submit 45-second videos capturing their celebrations by June 30. The top three submissions will receive prizes of $1,000, $600, and $300 in physical education and sporting equipment to further support active living in schools.