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| The wall in Hillaby, Barbados which bears Brathwaite's image |
On 20th August, 2009, Ryan Brathwaite of little known Hillaby, St Andrew, Barbados thrust Barbados into the sporting spotlight when he took gold at the IAAF World Championships in the 110m hurdles.
Bajans all over the world were proud to add his name to the list of other Bajans who have reminded the rest of the world that despite its size, the Antillean isle produces superstars such as Sir Garfield Sobers, Obadele Thompson and Rihanna.
However, after Ryan’s mediocre performance at the recent Golden Spike meet, it was clear that the difference between Ryan and the afore mentioned Bajan superstars is that the excellence they have achieved in their respective fields is consistent and credible.
Yes, I said credible. You see, what many refused to acknowledge is that Ryan achieved his goal in a competition that was void of competition. Although Ryan ran an impressive 13.89, neither China’s neither Liu Xian (PB 12.88) nor Cuba’s Dayron Robles (PB 12.89) were on the starting line that day. Had the usual suspects been in attendance that day, Ryan might have brought home a bronze medal.
I’m not trying to detract from Ryan’s achievement; to the contrary, I am querying whether or not Barbados’ reaction to Ryan’s medal was premature. After all, at the tender of age of 21 with just one gold medal under his belt Ryan was showered with material possessions, appointed as an ambassador and even had a wall in St Andrew, transformed with his image.
How is an athlete meant to strive for more when they are not appropriately incentivised throughout their development? Especially when there are younger, hungrier athletes devoting every spare moment to personal excellence.
I’m normally in favour of athletes from developing countries being handsomely rewarded for their achievements, but in this situation I can’t help but wonder if the level of recognition was inappropriate for not only the athlete but the achievement. Rebuttals are welcomed.
