The Barbados Boxing Association (BBA), supported by the Ministry of Sports and Community Empowerment, will launch Phase 2 of its OHANA “Gloves Over Guns” program on May 2nd at the Carrington Boxing Gym, Carrington Village Sports Complex, St. Michael.

The program uses boxing to build discipline, confidence and positive life choices. It also keeps communities sensitised to the lives lost to gun-related violence and exposes participants to opportunities within the sport.

First introduced in 2022, the initiative has already produced results. Abishai Jean-Baptiste, Nathan Walcott and Jacquan Grant medalled at OECS and other regional competitions, while Bem Wells has developed into leadership roles across multiple projects in event production and media support.

This phase continues the program’s community mobilisation approach, transitioning from Belfield, Black Rock to Carrington Village to expand access. Increased funding of this nature allows the Association to move toward operating across multiple venues simultaneously.

Space is available for 25 participants aged 12–21. Individuals outside of this age group who are interested in making use of this opportunity are encouraged to contact the Association. Participants will receive structured training in the sport of boxing, mentorship, and exposure to roles within the sport, including opportunities to become referees and judges.

Registration closes April 10. For more information, visit BBA’s social media pages or call 232-7556, 267-7922 or 850-7295.

Registration forms are available at the Carrington Village Sports Complex and the Marsha Caddle Constituency Office on Tweedside Road, or on request from boxing@olympic.org.bb or by calling any of the numbers listed above.