The Tribune

GYMNASTICS Federation of Bahamas executives, family and friends are mourning the passing of President Barbara Thompson on March 14, according to a press release.

“Our Barefoot President as she was sometimes called was a humble lady with a giving spirit. She was the founder of Gymnastics in the Bahamas, a sport she was very passionate about.

“Barbara established the Nassau GymNastics Club after moving to the Bahamas when she was just 20 years old.

“The Gymnastics Federation of the Bahamas was later formed to consolidate the efforts and assist young athletes in this sport.

“Over the past four years we were able to participate at international competitions such as the World Gymnastics Championships held in Glasgow, Scotland and the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto, Canada.

“Barbara’s only wish was to one day see a gymnast from the Bahamas compete at the Olympics. Well we are happy to announce today, that we have a young lady currently in training for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan. The Bahamas Olympic Committee, Women and Sports Commission honoured Barbara during the 40th Anniversary of Independence of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, as a true ambassador for the sport of gymnastics. The Gymnastics Federation of Bahamas extends condolences to the family of the late Barbara Thompson. We honour her legacy and the financial contributions to the sport of gymnastics over the years and we will remain forever grateful.