Discover Trinidad & Tobago 2016 — 25th Anniversary Edition

A good sport
Trinidadians take their sporting activities almost as seriously as they take
their parties and cultural celebrations. And more often than not there’s
some partying involved. With an eye for developing a sports tourism
industry, Trinidad — like Tobago — has been expanding its sporting
infrastructure. Here’s a taste of just some of the island’s most popular
sports, where to catch them, and how to get involved.
Athletics
T&T has always been a quiet force in track and field, with athletes winning
coveted hardware at the Olympics and other international
meets. Locals get to see national and international stars
in action at the annual Hampton Games (Hasely
Crawford Stadium in Port of Spain). National
Amateur Athletics
Association: naaatt.org
Cricket
Perhaps the only sport to rival football’s popularity, cricket has
gained new interest thanks to the Twenty/20 format. The Queen’s
Park Oval is the capital of the nation’s cricket activities for Twenty/20,
one-day and test matches. Trinidad & Tobago Cricket Association:
636-1577, ttcricketboard.com
Cycling & mountain biking
Presided over by the Trinidad & Tobago Cycling Federation, cycling
features prominently in the islands’ sports tourism thrust.
The Easter International Grand Prix and National Championships
(at the Arima Velodrome) are highlights of the racing calendar. A
new world-class National Cycling Veldrome in Couva was nearing
completion at press time. Mountain biking is a sport that’s also gaining
popularity from locals and tourists alike. Trails in Chaguaramas
are ideal for beginners. Other locations include the Santa Cruz valley
and the Matura to Matelot stretch, and Blanchisseuse to Morne La
Croix Road. A 1,000km biking and hiking trail along the north coast
is under development. Go with a reputable guide or biking group.
Cricketer Dwayne Bravo. Photo courtesy WICB Media/Ashley Allen
78 discovertnt.com