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AS AN ICON whenever international cricket was held at the Next was Brian Lara, who created history twice
LAYS DYING... ARG; that place was on fire. Some who attended at the ARG: first in 1994, when he scored 375
runs in the Test series England versus the West
did not even understand the game; nevertheless,
Indies, and in 2004 when he scored 400 not out
they attended largely for the incredible
in another Test against England.
entertainment.
Music was packaged and delivered by Nigel ARG was also the venue for other major events,
Ian Baptiste, best known as Chickie. His hi-fi including local Premier League Football; the
set vibrated throughout the game and kept the annual Youth Rally; and the Independence Day
crowds rocking long after the stumps had been Parade.
pulled up. In sunny or rainy conditions; win, lose or
LAYS DYING...
n Antigua and Barbuda, there is a well- Antigua Recreation Ground. draw, he kept the people happy. His dedication to But each year, during July and August, the
established opinion that governments and music and the game was something that earned grounds were transformed into Carnival City –
Ilandlords are the same. They do not repair The ARG, as it was reverentially called, should him “Man of the Match” every time. once simply called “Pasture/Passa” – where a
or maintain properties, be it ministries, schools, never be in such a state of disrepair; not with such huge stage was erected with dramatic lighting
health, or sports facilities. The structures are rich history. What should have been preserved as Another prominent entertainer was Ronald and sound effects, and the surrounding areas
generally left in dilapidated conditions for years a national treasure now lies in ruin. It is a national “Mayfield” Hosier, a born comedian who could professionally decorated.
until there is a crisis. disgrace. spice up a slow over with laughter at his outfit or
his antics. For more than 40 years, the ARG was the venue
Looking at what has for the Carnival and Jaycees Queen Shows.
become an eyesore in Mayfield was later joined by Labon Kenneth Prospective and past Queens of Carnival have
the middle of St. John’s is Blackburn Leeweltine Buckonon Benjamin, shed tears on that stage, while others have had
heartbreaking. A place otherwise known as “Gravy,” who became a proud and joyous moments, parading in four-inch
that once enjoyed Test permanent fixture at most games. In outlandish heels and showcasing their bodies, costumes,
match status. Venue costumes – including a wedding dress – and gowns and talents.
of the first One-Day with endearing performances, he kept the crowd
International, Australia roaring with laughter. Its location made the grounds ideally suited
versus the West Indies, for the Calypso, Soca Monarch, and steel pan
held in 1978. Between Chickie, Mayfield and Gravy, the ARG competitions, which were attended and cheered
became known and loved for gifting the world by those who love the arts. The performances
In 1981, an official with “Cricket Carnival.” of great calypsonians, such as the late Sir Rupert
Test match, England "King Swallow" Philo, Sir Paul "King Obstinate"
versus the West Indies, On the serious side, the ARG was described Richards, and Sir MacLean "King Short Shirt"
was held there, as as a batsman’s paradise and a deathtrap for Emanuel are all enshrined in the ARG’s history.
well. In 2003, the West bowlers, since it offered very little bounce; hence,
Indies accomplished a batsman could bat all day. In colloquial terms, ... Staring at the relic of the ARG should be a
the highest successful run chase in Test Cricket it was known as a “featherbed.” painful experience for patriotic Antiguans and
A mere glance at sporting complexes and history when they made 418/7 against Australia Barbudans. What are we teaching the next
playgrounds around Antigua tells all one needs in the fourth innings and won by three wickets. Accordingly, Sir Isaac Vivian Alexander Richards generation when we disregard or do not treasure
to know. Take a walk or drive to Independence – one of Antigua and Barbuda’s finest sons and our history or culture? We do not have to resent
Avenue, then look north of the East Bus Station The ARG had three main stands: The Vivian its only living National Hero – made history here, other races or cultures to love our own; we just
and west of Her Majesty's Prison, and you will Richards, Andy Roberts, and Double Decker. scoring his fastest Test-match century in 1986. need to care enough to preserve it.
see the shameful condition of the once-iconic The Double Decker Stand was the place to be
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