This event needed its own post!
Ohhhh sweeeet STICK FIGHTING!!
WARRIORS are born with the need to fight; whether it be to attack an enemy, to defend their community or to protect their loved ones. It is in their NATURE! They train in preparation, always staying ready just in case a fight, community war, civil war or world war breaks out. STICK FIGHTING offers the warrior but one outlet in which to direct his/her energies. In a previous post I wrote briefly on "Six Things You Should Know About Stick Fighting". In this post I would like to share some pointers for those who decide to attend the National Stick Fighting Competition.
1. Reach EARLY- You would be VERY surprised by how many people come out to witness this spectacular display. You will want to ensure that you get a good park and a great seat in order to view the entire gayelle.
2. Yuh SAFE- If is one thing, between the steady police presence and the ambulance on site... yuh skin real safe at the event. Just don't go looking for trouble or provoke a stick fighter when he/she is in his/her zone.
3. The DRUMS- Know yuhself! If you know drums and a good lavway does take you into a zone, be prepared to go dey! The music in the space creates this DYNAMIC energy that will either have you doing your own stick fighter dance in the stands and/or seriously contemplating if you could be a stick fighter. The energies in the space are not to be taken lightly so be prepared.
4. Don't BLINK- The BLOWS in stick fighting happens so quickly that if you blink at the wrong point in time you will miss it. It that serious! In the mist of the action try your best to follow the tip of the sticks...
5. Unofficial FIGHTING- Now, various gayelles enter the competition, oftentimes having disagreements as it relates to things such as rules. Furthermore, some people don't take well to losing. The chances of witnessing a fight outside the gayelle is maybe 30/70, it hardly happens in view of the public but it does happen on occasion.
6. Leave EARLY- I suggest once you realise the competition is almost over, start making your exit. The traffic is often ridiculous especially for the FINALS... and well the impromptu fighting!
GO SUPPORT THE TRINBAGO CULTURAL HERITAGE AND OUR WARRIORS!
