Braithwaite was born on 30 November 1957 in Guyana. He mainly operated as a defender. He previously operated as a midfielder. He was known for his strength. He has been nicknamed "Ultimate Warrior". He has been a rastafarian. He has been a vegetarian.[1] He started his career with Guyanese side Pele FC. He played for the club in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. He attended Clemson University in the United States. He played for their soccer team. He studied Spanish and French.[2]
After that, he signed for Guyanese side Western Tigers FC. He was a Guyana international. He captained the team. He played for the Guyana national football team for 1986 FIFA World Cup qualification. In 1991, he was appointed manager of the Guyana national football team. He managed the Guyana national football team for 1994 FIFA World Cup qualification, 1991 CONCACAF Gold Cup qualification and 1993 CONCACAF Gold Cup qualification. He has been described as a "true national treasure... left an indelible mark on the sport".[3] He has two sons.