The event, staged over two days, was aimed at motivating young Barbadian athletes and carried a theme of “It’s not the Victory; it’s the Struggle”.

Around 40 girls aged between 14 and 18 attended the workshop, which involved various seminar sessions, interactive activities, goal-setting lectures and discussions concerning topics such as leadership and sport, mapping the female body, anti-doping, nutrition and sexual harassment in sport.

They were also treated to a tour of the National Olympic Museum at the Barbados Olympic Centre and it is hoped the sessions will inspire the youngsters to success in their future sporting careers.

Attendees were picked based on certain eligibility criteria as all participants had to be a potential candidate for the next cycle of major Games, on the national team or undergoing trials, a consistent sporting performer or someone who may be viewed as a future young leader.

The workshop was well received among those who took part, it is claimed, and was also attended by several sporting stars from the region and further afield, including former United States gymnast Elisabeth Akinwale, sprinter Shakera Reece, former professional volleyball players Anicia Wood and Rhe Ann Niles and local surfing champion Chelsea Tuach.

Event coordinator Sasha Sutherland, a member of the Women and Sport Commission, believes the workshop was a huge success and she says she can’t wait to organise more in the future.

“A workshop well-scripted and executed almost to perfection,” she said.

“Thank you to every athlete who participated, our presenters, our team leaders, the organising committee and partners.

“I am very much looking forward to our next event.”

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