9th Edition Of Barbados Ninja Throwdown August 16 – 17
The ninth edition of the Barbados Ninja Throwdown will take place on August 16 and 17 at Featherbed Lane, St. John, and promises to be the best edition to date. There are currently 230 overseas and 10 local participants registered.
The two-day sporting event, which showcases expert agility, strength, and willpower, is becoming a marquee event on Barbados’ sporting calendar and highlights the island’s budding sports tourism sector.
The Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI) is the title sponsor for this year’s event. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BTMI, Andrea Franklin, highlighted the event’s growth, international reach, and its impact on the sport tourism sector, during the media launch this morning at the Wildey Gymnasium.
“This is undoubtedly an event that continues to elevate the standards of sport competition and community engagement here in Barbados. Since its modest inception in November 2016, the Barbados Ninja Throwdown has experienced remarkable growth, expanding by over 260 per cent in participant numbers to become a significant event that draws exceptional talent and attracts international participation and spectators.
“This kind of expansion is precisely what demonstrates the tremendous potential of sports tourism to drive economic activity, enhance our international brand, and foster meaningful cultural exchange…. In 2024, over 12,140 visitors travelled to Barbados specifically to attend or participate in sporting events. And this serves as a resounding affirmation that our strategic investment in this sector is yielding tangible results, and that the future of Barbados as the premier destination for international sporting events is exceptionally promising,” Ms. Franklin stated.
Co-founder and Director of the Barbados Ninja Throwdown, Monique Hinds, shared that the Barbados Ninja Throwdown is 100 per cent homegrown and executed.
She further highlighted that even some of the obstacles on the course designed by Perry Oosterlee carry names inspired by Bajan places, indigenous animals, and cultural activities.
“You will see competitors tackle challenges like Mount Hillaby, Gun Hill Shrinking Steeps, River Bay Log Roll and Green Monkey Trap. It’s our way of showcasing Barbados in the most dynamic and memorable way possible and giving a nod to our heritage and identity….
“As I stand here today, I’m filled with pride, excitement, and deep gratitude. What began as a bold idea has grown into one of the most thrilling and talked-about sporting events in the Caribbean, and this year we are turning up the heat like never before … and trust me, it is going to be double the action, double the fun!” Ms. Hinds said.
For more information on the event, persons may visit https://barbadosninjathrowdown.com/.
Author: Sheena Forde-Craigg