As a youth growing up in the Borough of Arima in Trinidad, I can recall going to watch the shenanigans going on behind 'Stooge's Bar,' where there was a makeshift Gayelle. On a Friday night, the crowd would gather to watch grown men get into the Gayelle and try to 'bust open' the opponent's head. The crowd would erupt in cheers as the sticks located their target. The goal was to see a boy lean over one of the corners and let some blood drip into the hole. That was crude, and there were no rules! Back in the day, there were no set rules in the Gayelle; today, there are. They adhere to strict rules for the stick-fighting competition. Today, competitors are required to follow a code of conduct that emphasizes respect and sportsmanship. While the spirit of the fight remains, the focus has shifted toward skill and technique rather than brutality, ensuring a safer environment for all participants.
For Carnival 2025, the semi-final round of competition and finals took place on February 26 at Skinners Park in San Fernando. Those who follow this aspect of Trinidad's African heritage went there to see quality Kalinda (African martial arts), or as we say, Bois or Stick Fighting.
When drumming starts and the singing starts, the fighters are given the signal to break sticks... it is time to fight! Unlike the crude and early days of stick fighting in the villages, the rules call for separation of the fighters after the fighters make contact with each other. Either they come close and clinch without striking each other or after one fighter gets the better of the other. If a fighter falls to the turf, the other has to move away and allow the fallen fighter to get up. Two judges in the ring enforce the rules. The actual method of scoring strikes and scoring points is unknown to this blogger.
Now you can watch and judge for yourself. The official results gave the victory to Anderson Marcano. We want you to become a 'bush judge,' as Kenny Phillips likes to say, and score the fight. Please share the post and don't forget to leave a comment. Enjoy Trinidad and Tobago's Carnival culture.
The Champion Stick Fighter for Carnival 2025
- Anderson Marcano
- Oniel Odle
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Credits:
Event: Stickfighting Finals Carnival 2025
Date: February 26, 2025
Venue: Skinner Park, San Fernando, Trinidad
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago
Code:STICKFIGHTING2025
Video Courtesy Clement Richards YouTube Page
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