Beyond Cricket: Unearthing Lesser-Known Sports and Games of Barbados.

Beyond the roar of Kensington Oval and the captivating spectacle of cricket, Barbados holds a treasure trove of lesser-known sports and games. These aren’t just pastimes; they are living threads woven into the vibrant tapestry of Barbadian culture, reflecting its history, resilience, and community spirit. Let’s delve into some of these fascinating activities, discovering their origins, rules, and the passion they ignite in those who participate.

Dominoes: More Than Just Tiles

Dominoes in Barbados is not your quiet, solitary game. It’s a loud, social, and intensely competitive affair. Played primarily by men in rum shops and at community gatherings, dominoes is a highly strategic game involving mental calculations, partnerships, and lots of “jucking” (slamming the dominoes on the table with force). The aim is simple: be the first team to reach a predetermined score, but the strategies employed and the psychological warfare are anything but simple.

How to Play: A standard domino set (double-six) is used. Two teams of two players each compete. Each player draws seven dominoes. Players take turns playing a domino that matches an open end on the table. Doubles are placed crosswise. If a player cannot play, they must “knock” and pass their turn. The first team to reach a set score (typically 100 or 250) wins. The scoring system can vary, but generally, the hand that is out scores the total of the remaining dominoes in the opponents’ hands.

Where to Find It: Visit any local rum shop – especially on a Friday or Saturday night. You’ll be sure to find a game in full swing. Places like John Moore Bar in Weston, St. James, or any of the smaller rum shops in rural areas are good bets. Just ask politely if you can watch, and be prepared for some good-natured ribbing.

Cost: Watching a game is free! Buying a round of drinks for the players is a welcome gesture. A bottle of Banks beer usually costs around $3-$4 BBD.

Road Tennis: The Pride of Barbados

Road tennis is, without a doubt, the most uniquely Barbadian sport. Played on a “court” drawn on the road with chalk, using wooden paddles and a de-fuzzed tennis ball, road tennis is a fast-paced game requiring agility, skill, and quick reflexes. It’s played at local parks, community centers, and yes, even on the roads themselves. The game originated in the 1930s as a way for people to play tennis without the expense of a proper court and equipment.

How to Play: The court is approximately 20ft long and 10ft wide, divided by a low net (usually a wooden board or a row of bricks). Players use wooden paddles to hit the ball over the net. The ball must bounce once on the player’s side before being hit. Scoring is similar to tennis, with points, games, and sets. The “net” is so low, it demands an underhanded stroke, often involving slice and extreme wrist action.

Where to Find It: Road tennis courts are ubiquitous throughout Barbados. You’ll find them in most parks and community centers. Deighton “Pa” Roach Centre in Bush Hall, St. Michael, is a popular spot. If you want to see some serious competition, look out for local tournaments advertised in the newspapers or on community notice boards. The National Sports Council of Barbados National Sports Council often promotes road tennis events.

Cost: Watching is free. If you want to play, you can usually join in on a casual game. Paddles and balls are inexpensive and readily available. A basic paddle costs around $20-$30 BBD.

Warri: An Ancient Game of Strategy

Warri (also spelled Wari or Awari), is a Mancala game of ancient African origin, brought to Barbados by enslaved Africans. It’s a game of strategy and calculation, involving seeds and a wooden board with two rows of six pits each. The aim is to capture more seeds than your opponent. While not as widely played as dominoes or road tennis, Warri still holds a place in Barbadian culture, particularly among older generations.

How to Play: The board has two rows of six pits. Each pit initially contains four seeds. Players take turns picking up all the seeds from one of their pits and distributing them one by one into the following pits in a counter-clockwise direction. If the last seed lands in an opponent’s pit containing one or two seeds, those seeds are captured. The game continues until one player captures all the seeds or neither player can make a legal move. There are many variations in the rules, so it’s important to agree on the rules before starting a game.

Where to Find It: It’s harder to find Warri games than dominoes or road tennis. However, some community centers and cultural events may feature Warri. You can sometimes find Warri boards for sale at local craft markets or souvenir shops. Alternatively, you can sometimes find people selling the boards near Queen’s Park in Bridgetown.

Cost: Watching is free. A simple Warri board can cost around $50-$100 BBD, depending on the craftsmanship.

Spear Fishing: A Deep Dive into Tradition

While technically not a “game,” spear fishing is an important aspect of Barbadian culture and a source of livelihood for many. It involves diving into the ocean with a speargun to catch fish. It’s a challenging and dangerous activity that requires skill, knowledge of the ocean, and respect for marine life. In many coastal communities, it represents a connection to the sea that stretches back generations.

Ethical Considerations: It’s crucial to emphasize that spear fishing should be done responsibly and sustainably. Overfishing can damage marine ecosystems. Adhering to local regulations and practicing selective fishing are essential.

Where to Find It: You can find spear fishermen operating along the coast of Barbados. Some may offer guided trips or teach you the basics (though this is less common). Talk to locals in fishing villages like Oistins or Tent Bay.

Cost: Spear fishing equipment can be expensive. A basic speargun can cost several hundred dollars. Guided trips, if available, would also come at a cost. Consider that this activity also requires a diving certification.

Land Ship: A Parade of Nautical Nonsense

The Barbados Land Ship is a unique and theatrical folk tradition. It involves costumed performers who mimic the roles and rituals of a naval crew, marching and dancing through the streets. These “ships” are landlocked vessels that celebrate the island’s maritime history and the spirit of adventure. The Land Ship is generally seen at Crop Over and other local festivals.

Origins: The Land Ship societies emerged in the late 19th century, possibly as a form of friendly rivalry between different villages or as a parody of the British Royal Navy. These groups are characterized by elaborate costumes, nautical themes, and mock naval drills.

Where to Find It: The Land Ship groups perform at various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, particularly during Crop Over. Keep an eye out for announcements in local newspapers Nation News or on community notice boards.

Cost: Watching a Land Ship performance is usually free, although donations are often appreciated.

Donkey Cart Racing: A Rural Throwback

Donkey cart racing is a charming and often humorous tradition that can still be found in some rural areas of Barbados. Donkey carts, once a common mode of transportation, are now used for racing, often during village fairs and community events. It’s a lighthearted spectacle that brings communities together.

Where to Find It: Donkey cart racing is not as common as it once was, but you might find it at village fairs or agricultural shows in rural parishes like St. Philip or St. Lucy. Keep an eye out for announcements in local newspapers or on community notice boards.

Cost: Watching a donkey cart race is usually free.

Chequers: A Mind Game for All Ages

Chequers, also known as checkers in some regions, is a classic board game that is enjoyed by people of all ages in Barbados. You can find people playing outside their homes, and in many public spots across Barbados. It is a strategy game, where two players are involved; one with black pieces and the other one with white pieces.

How to Play: Chequers involves two players who alternate turns making diagonal moves of their pieces over an 8×8 board. A player wins by capturing all of the opponent’s pieces (thereby making it impossible to make any move) or by blocking the pieces of the opponent so that he cannot make any move.

Where to Find It: Chequers can be played everywhere on the island. Many people play it in their houses for fun, or you can find people competing in parks or other social spots.

Cost: Watching a game is free. If you want to play, you can buy the board and pieces for around $20-$30 BBD.

Horse Racing: The Sport of Kings (and Bajans)

While many might know about horse racing, it’s not always considered a distinctly Bajan sport. However, the Garrison Savannah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is more than just a racetrack; it’s a cultural hub steeped in history. Horse racing has been a popular pastime in Barbados since the 1840s, and race days are vibrant social events.

Where to Find It: Horse racing takes place regularly at the Garrison Savannah. Check the schedule on the Barbados Turf Club’s Barbados Turf Club website.

Cost: Admission prices vary depending on the event and seating. General admission is relatively inexpensive, while VIP packages can be more costly.

Cricket in the Sand: Informal Beach Matches

While Kensington Oval steals the show, the beaches of Barbados often host spontaneous cricket matches. These informal games are a true expression of the island’s love for the sport. Using driftwood for wickets and sea grape leaves for boundaries, locals and tourists alike come together for a friendly game of cricket in the sand.

Where to Find It: Simply head to any beach, especially on weekends, and you’re likely to find a game in progress. Popular beaches include Accra Beach (Rockley) and Brownes Beach.

Cost: Free! Just bring your enthusiasm and maybe a bat and ball if you have one.

Fishing – A Way of Life

Fishing has always been an integral part of Barbadian life, and it’s definitely linked with the Bajan culture. From small boats to larger vessels, fishermen venture every day into the sea to provide for their families with their catch. Fishing is a highly skilled and often dangerous profession due to the unpredictability of the ocean. While it’s a commercial industry, the skills and traditions that are passed down generations are a strong part of the Barbadian heritage.

Where to Experience It: You can observe their activities in many coastal towns, where boats leave and come back with their catch. Some of the spots include Oistins, Bridgetown, and Speightstown.

Cost: Observe the departures and arrivals of the fishermen boats are free. However, if you want to go out with their boats, or hire them for a deep sea fishing tour, it will cost you anywhere between $300-$800 BBD.

Tips for Experiencing These Lesser-Known Games:

• Talk to Locals: The best way to learn about these sports and games is to talk to people who play them. Ask about the rules, the history, and the best places to watch or participate.
• Be Respectful: Remember that these are important cultural traditions. Be respectful of the players and the environment.
• Embrace the Experience: Don’t be afraid to jump in and try your hand at these games. Even if you’re not very good, you’ll have fun and learn something new about Barbadian culture.
• Support Local Businesses: By patronizing rum shops, craft markets, and other local businesses, you’re helping to preserve these cultural traditions.

FAQ Section

Here are some commonly asked questions about the lesser-known sports and games of Barbados:

What is the most unique sport in Barbados?

Road tennis is undoubtedly the most unique sport in Barbados. It’s played nowhere else in the world and is deeply ingrained in the island’s culture.

Where can I learn to play road tennis?

Many community centers and parks offer road tennis lessons. You can also find informal games happening on the streets where you can observe or even join.

Is it safe to participate in spear fishing?

Spear fishing can be dangerous if not done properly. It’s essential to have the necessary training, equipment, and knowledge of the ocean. Always prioritize safety and adhere to local regulations.

Are there any specific times of year when these games are more popular?

Dominoes and road tennis are played year-round. The Land Ship performances are more common during Crop Over and other cultural festivals. Donkey cart racing is usually held at village fairs and agricultural shows.

How can I find out about local tournaments and events?

Check local newspapers, community notice boards, and the websites of organizations like the National Sports Council of Barbados for information about tournaments and events.

What should I wear when watching or participating in these games?

Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended. For outdoor activities, wear sunscreen and a hat. If you’re participating in a sport, follow any specific dress code requirements.

What is there to know about the history of these sports?

The history of Warri, road tennis, land ship, and other sports are rooted in Barbados. They represent the resilience and ingenuity of the locals, and they have also contributed to shaping the Barbadian identity.

References

(Without links and notes – as requested)

• National Sports Council of Barbados
• Barbados Turf Club
• Nation News

So, next time you visit Barbados, venture beyond the cricket pitch and discover the hidden gems of its sporting culture. Engage with the locals, try your hand at a new game, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions that make Barbados so unique. You might just find yourself hooked on road tennis or captivated by the strategic nuances of Warri. These lesser-known sports and games offer a fascinating glimpse into the heart and soul of Barbados – a place where community, competition, and cultural heritage come together in a vibrant and unforgettable way. Come explore the games, embrace the culture, and experience the real Barbados!