From left to right: Minister of the Creative Economy, Culture and Sports, John King; Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Kerrie Symmonds; Sir Wesley Hall; Sir Everton Weekes; and Sir Charlie Griffith, during the unveiling ceremony at Kensington Oval on Wednesday evening.
West Indies 3Ws honoured at Kensington Oval
The Historic Unveiling of the Blue Plaque at Kensington Oval on Wednesday was witnessed by approximately 50 persons as it served to honour the contribution of three of the greatest sons of Barbados, Sir Frank Worrell, Sir Clyde Walcott and Sir Everton Weekes.
Speaking at the unveiling Minister of Tourism, Kerrie Symmonds, said that this little island (Barbados) is far more influential than the size would lead you to believe.
“Sport is what caused Barbados to be on the map and caused Barbados to be known all over the world.
“These cricketing knights have put the country on the map,” he stated.
Devon Chase, Manager of Sport at the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc (BTMI) said that, “The sport of Cricket has long been entrenched in the DNA of Barbadian society. The exploits of our home grown cricketing heroes, many of whom are represented here this evening, are well documented and firmly etched in the annals of history. We at the BTMI, recognise that these contributions have played an integral role as it relates to establishing the foundation for the further development of sport and sporting infrastructure, critical elements in our thrust to position the island a premier destination for Sports Tourism.
“Our story today continues as we prepare another chapter, serving as a reminder of the legacy of these ‘Icons in the Sport’ whilst ensuring that they will forever remain in the minds and hearts of all Barbadians for many more generations to come,” it was pointed out.
The Blue Plaque the first of its kind outside the United Kingdom was revealed by Michael Read, Chairman of the British Plaque Thrust and Sir Everton Weekes.
President of the Barbados Cricket Association, Conde Riley noted that this has come at a time when Sir Everton celebrates his 70th anniversary of setting the record for five consecutive centuries.
It is also the 60th anniversary of Sir Garfield Sobers breaking the batting record for the most runs scored in an innings.
Sir Everton Weekes said it is always nice to hear people saying nice things about people.
He thanked those for the thoughtfulness of all who made this possible and understood in order to get to hundred, “I will have to do it in singles. No boundaries.” (CG)