National Hero of Barbados - Sir Garfield St Auburn Sobers.
The Cricketer.
Born 1936.

The name of Sir Garfield Sobers is legendary and is synonymous with the word..... cricket and the West Indies Cricket Team. When one thinks of cricket they think of Sir Garfield and visa versa.

Some of Sir Garfield's records still stand. At the age of twenty one he made an incredible three hundred and sixty five (365 not out) which was not surpassed for thirty six years. In 1994 Brian Lara the current West Indies captain scored three hundred and seventy five (375 not out).

Another of Sir Garfield's famous records is that of his sixth wicket stand at Lord's in 1966. Together with David Holford they established a record partnership, posting one hundred and sixty three (163) and one hundred and five (105) not out respectively.

In addition, Sir Garfield made history as the first batsman to score six, sixes in a six-ball over in a first class match.

During 1965 and 1972, Sir Garfield served as the Captain of the West Indies cricket team, a period of thirty nine matches.  He also captained the Barbados team from 1966 to 1967, Nottinghamshire from 1968 until 1971 and what is termed as the Rest of the World for two tours, one of England and the other of Australia.

In 1966 Sir Garfield's image was placed on a Barbados Independence Postage Stamp and is considered a great national symbol/hero.

In 1969, Sir Garfield took cricket a further step and subjected himself to great criticism while also making one of his most outstanding contributions.  At a time when racism was rampant, he is documented as one of the first cricketers to try and integrate apartheid countries through the sport.  He selflessly lent his coaching skills to black youths and played in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe).  Unfortunately, he was made to apologize publicly for his actions which in itself is ironic seeing as many players including that of the West Indies subsequently earned a living offering their services to South Africa before the era of apartheid ended.

In 1974, Sir Garfield Sobers retired from the sport of cricket due to the cartilage in his knee giving out.  

In 1975, Queen Elizabeth II changed tradition by bestowing Garfield Sobers with the honor of Knighthood at the Garrison Savannah instead of at Buckingham Palace.

The greatest all rounder in cricket history... Sir Garfield St Auburn Sobers brought the spotlight to the island of Barbados, encouraging the growth and popularity of cricket and sparked many Barbadians into following their dreams.  An inspiration to many, his achievements ignited the desire,   particularly that of the black underprivileged youth, to be all that you can be! 

A true role model for success, the name of Sir Garfield Sobers is engraved on the hearts of all Barbadians and cricketers throughout the world.