Like conquering heroes, the Barbados bodybuilding team returned from the Central America and Caribbean Games to loud cheers and applause on Monday night at the Grantley Adams International Airport.
As Barbados Amateur Bodybuilding & Fitness Federation president Alfred Sparman lead the delegation out of the arrival hall, the large crowd of family, friends and gym-mates erupted in a loud cheer.
Coach Gareth Norris was overjoyed as he pointed to the record-setting squad which was “small in numbers but big in achievement”.
“We would have wanted to win the overall [title] but as the home team, Mexico had the numbers. Winning the overall would have been the icing, but I am thrilled with everyone winning medals, with seven convincing winners in their categories and three pro cards.
“The teams did everything asked. Their bodies were right and I asked them to have their minds right and they did what no other teams have done before, of everyone medalling,” said Norris.
One of the more popular champions was the ever smiling Tyrell Forde, who had the largest contingent of supporters, with family and friends waving balloons and posters acclaiming their hero. Special recognition was also given to the pro card winners Vanessa Jones, Asha Chase and Ramona Morgan.
Jones credited a lot of hard work and the implementation of strategies with turning several previous runners-up finishes into gold.
“It was an amazing experience and a good feeling of being able to step onto the big stage and win the approval of international judges,” she said.
“Of course, I put in more work after Darcy [Beckles Invitational Classic] and I intend to be even better as I go on in my career. If I could not be better, I would not do it,” said Jones.
The experienced Ramona Morgan was pleased to finally achieve her pro card but said giving her best was the primary focus.
“I never focused on the pro card, as my interest was in giving my all to, hopefully, win for the team and Barbados,” Morgan said.
Chase was thrilled by her success.
“Getting this pro card will inspire me to work even harder, as there are some gymnastics aspects of my routine that I want to work on to get even better,” she said. (KB)
