The 2025 edition of the National Senior Games is shaping up to be more than a showcase of athleticism. It’s a call to action for a nation on the brink of becoming a super-aged society.
With Minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs Kirk Humphrey in attendance at yesterday’s press conference at the Usain Bolt Sports Complex, event coordinator for the track and field circuit Mac Fingall announced that there will be a number of changes to the marquee athletics meet on June 9.
The field events will be done separately from the track events in order to give those athletes an opportunity to stand alone. Entertainment will blend with competition, as all six Calypso tents will face off in relays with the winner claiming the Julie’s Party Rentals Champions Trophy, exempt from the usual age requirement of 40 and above. Organisers are also in talks to include this year’s NAPSAC and BSSAC relay champions, in a repeat of last year, in order to create a multi-generational spectacle.
“We wanted to do a number of things differently this year,” Humphrey explained. “One, we wanted to attract more spectators. Two, we wanted to attract more athletes and competitors. Three, we wanted regular Barbadians to feel that they could come out and enjoy the games.”
Healthy ageing
“But most importantly,” he continued, “because this is our major programme in relation to active ageing and healthy ageing, we needed to have more activities in the communities and bring more people to the idea that as we age, we must take care of our physical bodies, our mental bodies, and our emotional bodies too.”
In line with the We Gatherin’ spirit, athletes will now compete to earn points for their home parishes. The top four parishes will mount the podium at the Games’ conclusion,
in a format designed to stir community pride and deepen grassroots engagement.
“Because this year athletes represent their parish, and with digital registration, we can track participation by parish,” noted organiser Ytannia Wiggins. “We’ve seen more people registering under their parishes, and we’re encouraging everyone to come out and give their parish a point however they can.”
Minister Humphrey stressed that events like the National Senior Games were not simply recreational, but strategic: “We wanted to make sure that as part of our plan for an ageing society, we age healthily, we age gracefully.”
The Games will open with the throwing events at Queen’s College and the jumping events at the Usain Bolt Sports Complex on May 31. It will be followed by a 5K road race which incorporates walkers, runners, cyclists and for the first time skaters, along the Mighty Grynner Highway on June 1. The main event—the track and field meet at the Usain Bolt Sports Complex – will be held on June 9. Additionally, there will be a two-day event on September 20-21 where participants for the other sporting disciplines will compete.
“It’s more than sport,” Wiggins echoed. “It’s about building a culture of healthy ageing, strengthening community ties, and giving Barbadians of all ages a reason to come out, compete, and cheer.” (JC)
