The Couch Gymnast has an interesting post on gymnastics in Trinidad:
… Gymnastics only came recently to Trinidad and Tobago as a formalised sport. The now national coach Clifton McDowell can remember when he and his friends were boys, that teaching themselves gymnastics tricks outside, or looking for schools with actual mats on which to practice was the only way to do gymnastics for acrobatic enthusiasts back then. …
Click through for a brief history with photos: Cartwheels in…… TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO! – The Couch Gymnast
I can add a paragraph. In 1997 I volunteered for 3 weeks coaching and doing clinics in the National capital Port of Spain, a wonderful experience. In fact, I was Head Judge for the Trinidad and Tobago National Championships that year.
The culture of the island paradise is rich.
One anecdote. Every morning we bought a bag of ice to take to the hot, humid gym. The kids pressed their hands on the ice bag between turns on bar to reduce the chance of ripping. Surprisingly, it seemed to work.
The top gymnast today is 12-year-old, two-time Sportswoman of the Year nominee, Thema Williams. She competes Level 9 in the States.
Gymnastics Coaching.com 