Barbados for sports fans - Barbados

It may be perfect for lazy days but Barbados is also a haven for sports buffs too. If you're the kind to stay active whilst on holiday, the athlete in you will have plenty to keep occupied. The obvious pastimes are the vast array of water sports on offer; everything from windsurfing to kite surfing is found here while sailing fanatics would do well to visit during the annual Mount Gay Rum Boatyard Regatta in May. Cricket and golf are big sports on the island; fans of the latter can head to one of three world class golf courses, also, regular events such as the Sir Garfield Sobers Festival of Golf and the RBTT Classic are hugely popular with locals and visitors alike. Meanwhile, it may not be everyone's cup of tea but polo is gaining popularity amongst the locals. The season runs from December to May; spectators put on their finest to watch the action at polo estates such as the prestigious Lion Castle. Feeling particularly energetic? The Barbados National Trust runs free hikes every Sunday at 6:00am, 3:30pm and moonlight hikes at 5:30pm. Get better acquainted with the island landscape and work off the previous night's Bajan buffet with an energetic hike. Winding through cane fields, lush forests, gullies and coastal villages, the hikes vary in length and are also a great way to meet new people. While Hike Barbados is free, donations are welcome to further the work of the Trust and its conservation programmes.

Hike Barbados: More information, directions and maps available at the Barbados National Trust Headquarters, Wildey House, Wildey, St. Michael. Telephone (246) 436 90 33.

By Richelle Harrison Plesse