Boismen showcased their finest skills on Wednesday night at the semifinals of the NCC Stick Fighting Competition at the Sangre Grande Multi-purpose Indoor Sporting Facility on Ojoe Road, Sangre Grande.
The pulsating rhythm of African drumming and traditional stick-fighting chants set the tone for the evening, building momentum as boismen warmed up with their bois raised above their heads, chanting and dancing in ritual fashion.
As the bell signalled the start of the competition, boismen stood alongside their supporters near the Gayelle, awaiting their turns to engage their opponents.
The bouts were intense and uncompromising. Sticks splintered during exchanges, while others were knocked from competitors’ hands, but the action pressed on uninterrupted.
One boisman sustained a head injury, while two others suffered injuries to their fingers during the competition.
Despite the physicality, the atmosphere remained electric, delivering a night filled with excitement for patrons.
However, concerns were raised about safety, as the wet floor of the Gayelle caused several boismen to slip and fall, creating potentially dangerous situations.
One of the highlights of the night came when boismen declined to face reigning fighter “Big Man” O’Neil Odle, a moment that sparked loud reactions from the packed crowd.
Some patrons later expressed dissatisfaction, noting that the same fighters continue to dominate the competition year after year. They called for more opportunities for younger and emerging boismen to participate and rise through the ranks.
Advancing to the finals, scheduled for the Moruga Multi-purpose Youth and Sport Facility, were Gladiators, Central Winners, Rio Claro, and Spartan.
Fire officers were on hand to respond to any serious injuries, while officers of the Eastern Division, led by Sgt Edwards, provided security for stick-fighting enthusiasts.
