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July 26. 2024
“The [Butcher] family’s legacy is a national success story and a World Record, showcasing the power of talent, passion, and dedication.”
As the world converges on Paris today for the 2024 Summer Olympics, the Caribbean region is poised to make its mark on the global stage with the largest contingent of athletes from regional nations as they compete in an unprecedented diverse range of events. From the sprinting powerhouses of Jamaica, Bahamas, and Trinidad and Tobago to the emerging talents of BVI, Grenada, Dominica, and St Lucia, Caribbean athletes will display the region’s rich sporting heritage.
The patriarch, Ulric Butcher, and his wife, Eleanor Butcher.
‘The Rebels Of Barataria!’
The Butcher family grew up in Barataria on 6th Avenue, opposite the grounds, which was then called Barataria Oval. The Oval was like our backyard; our parents knew where to find us when needed. This venue produced many sports enthusiasts and was in turmoil in the late 60s to early 70s when the minister for the area claimed to have given the grounds to St George’s College. It was not his to give. The community protested.
Noel Butcher, front row, second from left, 1971.
The conflict led to a compromise with the government, which ensured that the general public from all communities still had access to the ground. This development was a significant victory for our community. Seven teenagers led the charge and were referred to in the press as ‘The Rebels of Barataria.’
In tuning in to Trinbago’s highly decorated sporting heritage, we should salute one family—the Butchers—for their remarkable collective contribution to the nation. This legendary family has made waves i
Kenneth Butcher represented Trinidad and Tobago in 1968.
n their home country and internationally, leaving a lasting legacy in the record books and beyond.
Nicholas Butcher Meets President Clinton at the White House, 1996.
Indeed, the patriarch, Ulric Butcher, and his wife, Eleanor Butcher, raised a family of sports stars. Their children and grandson have proudly represented Trinbago and their adopted country, the USA, in various sporting events, showcasing their talent and athletic prowess.
In 1968, Kenneth laid the foundation for the entrance of family members into our national consciousness. Following Kenneth’s tradition, Noel represented T&T in soccer in 1971.
Breaking away from soccer, Lyris Butcher brought glory to the family’s name for her country in Field Hockey in 1977. The family’s sporting
Lyris Butcher is third from left.
prowess transcended borders when Nicholas Butcher, the grandson,
Ulric Butcher, 3rd from left.
achieved greatness in the USA in field hockey at the 1996 Olympics as the top goal scorer.
The Butcher family’s achievements highlight the rich sporting culture of the Caribbean and Trinbago.
And are a remarkable record. The family’s legacy in sports is a national success and a World Record, showcasing the power of talent, passion, and dedication.
Ulric Butcher laments the lack of a Hall of Fame Sporting Facility: Hasley Crawford enters Hasley Crawford Stadium to occupy his box office for a game, and the gate personnel denies him entry until their supervisor appears. Similarly, on August 23, 2024, the T&T Under 19 Youth Team–the T&T 1974 U19 Trailblazers–the 1974 U19 soccer team, the first national team to place in the top 3 of a FIFA-sanctioned tournament – will be celebrating its 50th anniversary without fanfare. While some teammates pursued sports for their careers, Ulric pursued aviation, was involved in culture – being a member of BWIA Parang Band – and hopes the government recognizes Trailblazers within the nation.