Crawford Calls for Coaching Overhaul Across Caribbean Athletics

by Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, April 9, 2026 - Trinidad and Tobago’s first Olympic gold medallist, Hasely Crawford, has called for urgent reforms in coaching and athlete development across the Caribbean, arguing that global and regional governing bodies are not doing enough to support smaller nations.

Crawford, who made history at the 1976 Olympic Games in Montreal, was speaking during the 53rd CARIFTA Games at the Kirani James Athletic Stadium.

The legendary sprinter, reflecting on the state of modern athletics, did not hold back in his assessment of the role of governing bodies, particularly World Athletics and its regional arm NACAC.

“I don’t think the IAAF (World Athletics) is doing enough for the smaller countries,” Crawford said candidly. “And what is the purpose of NACAC, other than hosting the CARIFTA Games? We need to do a lot more coaching at the lower level.”

Crawford pointed to coaching as the central issue affecting the development of athletics in the region, especially among smaller nations striving to compete with traditional powerhouses such as Jamaica and the Bahamas.

“The problem is coaching,” he stressed. “We need to go back to basics. Coaches are not teaching the fundamentals anymore, things like form, posture, and even how athletes use their eyes when they run.”

A product of disciplined, high-level coaching himself, Crawford credited his success to working under a qualified, experienced coach with deep technical knowledge.

“I had a certified, qualified coach, someone who understood the science behind the sport. That made the difference,” he explained.

He warned against the growing trend of inexperienced coaches working with young athletes, arguing that it can hinder long-term development.

“You cannot become a coach in 17 days,” Crawford said, referring to short certification programmes. “We are putting young coaches with young athletes, and they are not ready. That is a serious problem.”

Despite his concerns, Crawford acknowledged encouraging signs in parts of the region, particularly among emerging nations.

“I’m seeing countries like Guyana and Antigua producing strong athletes with good form. Something is happening there, and they are doing something right,” he noted.

The Olympic champion also highlighted the importance of nutrition and physical development, but maintained that technical coaching remains the foundation for sustained success.

“Look at the Jamaicans, their form is always correct. That is not by accident. That is coaching,” he said.

Crawford’s connection to Grenada runs deep, recalling that one of his earliest international victories came on the island at Queen’s Park, then a grass track venue.

“My first international win was right here in Grenada. I will never forget that,” he said, reflecting on a journey that would eventually lead to Olympic glory.

Now attending the CARIFTA Games not as an official, but as an observer, Crawford said his focus remains on identifying and encouraging the next generation.

“I come here to look for the future,” he said. “I’ve seen some promising athletes, but they need support.”

He is calling on regional stakeholders to invest in experienced coaching, utilise former champions, and prioritise grassroots development.

“We have champion athletes across the Caribbean, use them. Pay them and let them help develop the next generation,” Crawford urged.