Haiti, although facing many socio-economic challenges, has already proven, through iconic athletic figures such as Sylvio Cator and Barbara Pierre, that it has the potential to shine in sport.
The breakthrough at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris of the small Caribbean island of Saint Lucia, the performance of Dominica and the history of Jamaica are evidence of the results that the smallest can achieve against the economic giants.
Promotion and rediscovery of sporting heritage
For Haiti to shine again in athletics, it is essential to rediscover and promote its sporting heritage. Sylvio Cator, through his feat at the 1928 Olympic Games, proved that Haitian talent can shine at the highest level. The country must remember these heroes and use their example to inspire new generations.
Educational campaigns and awareness programs could be put in place to tell the story of Cator and Barbara Pierre in schools and sports clubs, showing young people that they can follow in their footsteps.
Creation of national programs for talent detection
Early talent detection is fundamental to discovering the next generation of champions. Haiti must invest in national programs that identify promising young athletes as early as primary school.
Taking inspiration from Barbara Pierre’s journey, which began in Haiti before settling in the United States, the country could create regional training centers where young talents would be trained in key disciplines such as sprinting, long jump, and other athletics events.
So much raw young talent is being ignored. Many young people spend their time running obstacle courses while tending to their parents’ wayward kids, or playing “dayiva” in river pools and off the country’s beautiful beaches. Leaders need to put on their boots and scour every corner of this island to uncover these true talents.
Investment in sports infrastructure
One of the main reasons for an athlete’s success remains their ability to train in favorable conditions, even with limited resources. Today, Haiti must invest in the construction and renovation of its sports infrastructure. Quality athletics tracks, modern training facilities and access to suitable equipment are essential to allow athletes to train effectively and prepare for international competitions.
Continuing education of coaches
The role of coaches is fundamental to the development of athletes. To follow in the footsteps of Sylvio Cator and Barbara Pierre, Haiti must ensure that its coaches are well trained and up to date with the latest training techniques.
Partnerships with international federations could provide Haitian coaches with continuing education opportunities, allowing them to acquire new skills and stay up to date in the field of athletics.
Financial support and promotion of athletes
Haitian athletes must receive adequate financial support to allow them to fully focus on their training. Barbara Pierre, for example, has managed to climb the ranks through hard work and support.
In this sense, Haiti could create scholarship programs for talented young athletes. In addition, it is necessary to promote these athletes, both nationally and internationally, to attract sponsors and partnerships that can provide the necessary resources for their development.
Participation in international competitions
International experience is crucial for aspiring athletes. Taking inspiration from Barbara Pierre’s participation in global competitions, Haiti should encourage its athletes to participate in regional, continental and international competitions. This not only allows them to measure their level against the best in the world, but also to gain confidence and experience.
The stories of Cator and Pierre are not just memories of the past, but beacons guiding future generations to success. Current leaders must break the bad habit of spinning their wheels by spending public funds on bad propaganda. With determination, they must develop effective strategies, give free rein to innovation so that the country can once again make world sporting history.
Sheldana Perrolain
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