BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – In a fitting tribute to a colossal figure in the world of cricket, legendary West Indies fast bowler Joel Garner was today conferred with the Order of Freedom of Barbados, the nation’s highest award, as part of the 2025 Independence and Republic celebrations.
Garner, affectionately known as “Big Bird” for his towering frame and even larger impact on the game, was one of only three distinguished Barbadians to receive the honour for “distinguished and extraordinary service.”
He stands alongside Central Bank Governor Dr Kevin Greenidge and healthcare leader Dr Kurt Lambert in this elite group.
The award citation recognizes Garner for “his outstanding leadership as a distinguished sports administrator, sterling service to national cricket development, and extraordinary contribution to West Indies and Barbados cricket as one of the greatest fast bowlers in history,” explicitly.
The honour solidifies the 72-year-old’s status not just as a sporting icon, but as a national treasure.
As a key member of the feared West Indies pace attacks of the 1970s and 80s, Garner was a nightmare for batters worldwide, his unplayable yorkers and steep bounce cementing his place in cricketing folklore.
Upon receiving the award, a characteristically humble Garner shifted the praise to those who supported him throughout his journey.
“I’m thankful, humbled,” Garner stated. “But at the same time, what I would like to do is remember all those people who were with me along the journey. Some of them are no longer here, while others are still around. I’m sharing the award with them because we didn’t do it alone.”
He painted a vivid picture of collective effort, adding, “They were with us when we were in the trenches doing all the work, bringing some joy and happiness to the people around us.”
In a poignant personal moment, Garner credited his grandmother for keeping him grounded throughout his meteoric rise to fame. “I’m a grandmother’s boy, for all. And she’s the one who kept me grounded and kept my feet to the ground.”
Reflecting on his storied playing career, which struck fear into opponents’ hearts, Garner summed up his philosophy with simple, powerful clarity.
“When I was playing, all I was doing was enjoying what I was doing and trying to perform. It was a profession, so I tried to do the best that I could while I was playing.”
and then 