07 Nov Embracing Cultural Roots and Forging International Connections: The Chamorro Slingers of Guam / The Mariana Islands

Embracing Cultural Roots and Forging International Connections: The Chamorro Slingers of Guam / The Mariana Islands

At the 4th Annual World Slinging Cup, two representatives from the distant shores of Guam and the Mariana Islands ventured into a global arena, carrying the legacy of their ancestors in the slings they wielded. Out of a formidable gathering of 50 international competitors, Guelo and Roman stood their ground, securing 31st and 18th places, respectively. While the standings were not as high as hoped, their presence was far more significant than the numbers convey.

Roman reflects on the results with philosophical acceptance. “We know we can sling much better,” he says. But, they took away critical lessons—recognizing that the art of slinging hinges not just on skill but also on composure under the weight of competition. The pair’s fourth time on the international stage underscored their deepening respect for the sport and its champions who excel under pressure.

The journey, however, was not solely about competition. It was a mission to share the vibrant Chamorro culture and slinging heritage with the world. In the classrooms of Es Vedra Middle School, over 50 students discovered the joy of slinging through a workshop run by the duo. The sport took a playful turn in Ibiza and Ireland, where sling golf introduced a novel blend of tradition and sport. And in the majestic backdrop of Egypt’s sunset, locals were invited to try their hand at this ancient practice.

But the cultural exchange went beyond mere sport. The history of slinging runs deep in many cultures, including those of Ireland and Egypt, where modernity has somewhat eclipsed this legacy. Guelo and Roman rekindled this historical connection, uncovering shared stories and reigniting interest in a skill that once formed the backbone of survival and warfare for their ancestors.

Their impact is subtly but powerfully recounted by the people whose lives they’ve touched. “We’ve showcased that Chamorros are serious about their slinging, passionate with our ancestors, and committed to our role in world service,” says Roman, encapsulating the essence of their global outreach.

Among the myriad of memorable moments, one stood out starkly. Within the ancient walls of Egypt’s bent pyramid, Roman encountered a Spanish man—a brief interaction leading to an exchange of a book chronicling 500 years of Chamorro contact with the Spanish. As the power failed, plunging them into darkness, the moment was illuminated by cellphones and marked by a profound realization. As they navigated back to the light, a new vision of a renewed bond between Guam and Spain emerged, not just through shared history but through the mutual respect and understanding forged by the simple yet profound act of slinging.

In the echoes of those ancient corridors, amidst the light and shadow, Roman and Guelo not only represented their small island community but also demonstrated the universal language of cultural pride and shared heritage. The slinging stones of Guam, whirling through the air, were not just aiming for targets but were weaving threads of connection across the tapestry of global cultures. Their journey was a testament to the power of cultural sports in building bridges and the unwavering spirit of the Chamorro people, proving that sometimes, to launch forward, we must draw from the strength of our past.