Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • Ariza National Championships set to ignite track and field excitement

    Ariza National Championships set to ignite track and field excitement

    Grenada’s premier athletics event, the Ariza National Championships, is set to showcase the nation’s top track and field talent on February 28th and March 1st, 2026, at the renowned Kirani James Athletics Stadium. The competition will feature athletes from across the island vying for national honors while simultaneously serving as a qualifying pathway for the prestigious CARIFTA Games.

    This year’s championships carry special significance as Grenada prepares to host the regional CARIFTA competition, offering local athletes the exceptional opportunity to compete on home turf while representing their nation. The event promises to be a spectacular display of emerging athletic excellence and competitive spirit.

    Marking over a decade of sustained partnership, Ariza Credit Union has reinforced its commitment to youth development through sports by presenting the Grenada Athletics Association (GAA) with a substantial sponsorship cheque of EC$50,000. This continued investment underscores the financial institution’s dedication to nurturing athletic talent and community development initiatives.

    Mervyn Lord, Chief Executive Officer of Ariza, emphasized the organization’s philosophy: “Our ongoing investment initiatives specifically target youth empowerment and community strengthening through athletic programs. Sports serve as a fundamental platform for developing discipline, building confidence, and creating meaningful opportunities for young Grenadians.”

    Conrad Francis, President of the Grenada Athletics Association, acknowledged the vital support: “We deeply appreciate Ariza’s consistent partnership and their unwavering commitment to one of our nation’s most anticipated sporting events. This sponsorship enables us to maintain the high standards of competition and athlete development that define these championships.”

    The collaboration between Ariza Credit Union and the GAA continues to demonstrate how corporate sponsorship can effectively drive sports development while creating pathways for athletic excellence and national pride.

  • Mar-a-Lago Calling: Guyana, T&T Leaders Invited to Meet President Trump

    Mar-a-Lago Calling: Guyana, T&T Leaders Invited to Meet President Trump

    In a significant diplomatic development emerging from the CARICOM Summit, U.S. President Donald Trump has extended exclusive invitations to two Caribbean leaders for high-level talks at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida. President Irfaan Ali of Guyana and Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago have confirmed their attendance for the March 7 meeting, which coincides with the Shields of the Americas Summit in Doral, Florida.

    The invitation follows Wednesday’s strategic engagement between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Caribbean leaders, signaling a renewed American focus on hemispheric relations. While specific agenda items remain undisclosed, the meeting is expected to address regional security, economic partnerships, and energy cooperation matters.

    Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar emphasized her commitment to prioritizing national interests, stating her focus would be squarely on achieving outcomes that benefit the people of Trinidad and Tobago. President Ali acknowledged his participation while noting uncertainty regarding the complete roster of invited nations.

    The selective nature of the invitation has generated considerable interest among regional observers, particularly regarding its implications for CARICOM unity. The development occurs alongside expected participation from several Latin American leaders, including the presidents of Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Paraguay, suggesting a broader realignment of U.S.-Caribbean-Latin American relations.

  • 3×3: Saint Lucia’s shortcut to global basketball glory

    3×3: Saint Lucia’s shortcut to global basketball glory

    The global basketball landscape is undergoing a transformative shift as 3×3 basketball emerges as the fastest-growing discipline within FIBA’s ecosystem. This urban team sport variant, characterized by its rapid pace and dynamic gameplay, is creating unprecedented opportunities for smaller nations like Saint Lucia to compete on the international stage.

    Glen Guiste, President of the Saint Lucia Basketball Federation, recently disclosed that FIBA is actively encouraging smaller territories to capitalize on this sporting revolution. The condensed format—featuring three players per side with one substitute—operates under a relentless 12-second shot clock that commences immediately after defensive possession. Unlike traditional basketball, there are no inbound passes from the baseline after scored baskets, creating a continuous flow of action that demands instinctive play and exceptional team chemistry.

    The Caribbean region is positioning itself at the forefront of this development, with Cayman Islands, Guyana (men’s team), and Jamaica already confirmed for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow from July 24-29. Guiste draws parallels between 3×3’s impact on basketball and T20’s transformation of cricket, describing it as “the short, exciting version” that democratizes international competition.

    FIBA frequently references Saint Lucia’s historic victory over Argentina as evidence that smaller territories can achieve remarkable success in this format. The federation believes 3×3 offers a more viable pathway to Olympic qualification than traditional five-on-five basketball.

    Despite its advantages, Guiste acknowledges strategic challenges: “The dynamics of 3×3 don’t give you much time to develop the game. We must balance development versus the quick version.” Nevertheless, he emphasizes that resistance is futile—FIBA is aggressively promoting the format worldwide. Saint Lucia’s national teams have already participated in 3×3 tournaments in Mexico and the Bahamas, signaling the nation’s commitment to embracing basketball’s future.

  • PHOTOS: UPP’s Alex Browne Officially Nominated in St. Philip’s North Race

    PHOTOS: UPP’s Alex Browne Officially Nominated in St. Philip’s North Race

    ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – The political landscape in St. Philip’s North has been formally defined as two prominent candidates secured their nominations for the upcoming March 16 by-election. The United Progressive Party (UPP) officially nominated Alex Browne on Wednesday, setting the stage for a direct contest against Randy Baltimore, the standard-bearer for the ruling Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP).

    The nomination proceedings, administered by the Electoral Commission at Willikies Primary School, transformed into vibrant displays of political allegiance. Both contenders arrived at the nomination center accompanied by fervent supporters, creating a charged atmosphere that underscored the constituency’s electoral significance.

    Browne successfully filed his candidacy documents in accordance with electoral regulations, followed by an official declaration of his nomination status. His opponent, Baltimore, brings a substantial background in public service as a former senior customs official. Baltimore’s nomination carries historical weight as he was selected to succeed Sir Robin Yearwood, the constituency’s parliamentary representative for an unprecedented five-decade tenure.

    The nomination process required each candidate to present formal papers endorsed by a proposer, a seconder, and eight registered electors from the constituency, accompanied by a $500 Eastern Caribbean dollar deposit. This electoral exercise was necessitated by Yearwood’s retirement after half a century of legislative service, creating a rare vacancy in the Antiguan political sphere.

    With the nomination phase concluded, both parties now enter the final stretch of campaigning before voters cast their ballots on March 16 in what political analysts anticipate will be a closely watched contest.

  • Five Ways to Stop Thieves from Taking Your Motorcycle

    Five Ways to Stop Thieves from Taking Your Motorcycle

    The Belize Police Department has released critical crime prevention recommendations in response to persistently high motorcycle theft rates documented by the National Crime Fusion Center. Recent statistical analysis reveals distinct patterns in these criminal activities, with thefts predominantly occurring between 12:01 a.m. and 8:00 a.m., and Saturdays identified as the peak day for incidents.

    Notable cases underscore the severity of the situation. Surveillance footage from June 2025 captured two individuals stealing a motorcycle from a West Canal residence in Belize City at approximately 3:00 a.m. In a separate January incident, an employee’s motorcycle was brazenly stolen during daylight hours from New Flags Supermarket in Santa Elena, demonstrating thieves’ increasing boldness.

    Law enforcement officials have formulated a comprehensive five-point protection strategy for motorcycle owners:

    1. Enhanced Locking Mechanisms: Authorities emphasize using multiple lock types simultaneously, particularly combining steering locks with heavy-duty chains or disc locks to create substantial deterrents.

    2. Immobilization Protocol: Motorcycles should be secured to fixed, immovable objects to prevent thieves from quickly loading unattached bikes into vehicles.

    3. Strategic Parking Practices: Riders without garage access should prioritize brightly lit, highly visible areas that eliminate the concealment darkness provides to criminals.

    4. Discreet Cover Usage: Plain covers that obscure motorcycle makes and models can effectively prevent thieves from identifying desirable targets during reconnaissance.

    5. Community Vigilance: Police urge citizens to report suspicious individuals loitering near parked motorcycles or conducting unusual neighborhood surveillance.

    The police department concludes that implementing these straightforward protective measures can significantly reduce the risk of substantial financial losses for motorcycle owners throughout Belize.

  • Dominica’s foreign affairs minister: Medical program to see changes with Cuban gov’t’s cooperation

    Dominica’s foreign affairs minister: Medical program to see changes with Cuban gov’t’s cooperation

    The Commonwealth of Dominica is initiating significant modifications to its decades-old Cuban Medical Workers Program, as revealed by Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Vince Henderson during a parliamentary address this week. While maintaining diplomatic discretion, Henderson confirmed ongoing collaborative discussions with Cuban authorities to reformulate the program according to evolving national requirements.

    This bilateral health initiative, rooted in principles of international solidarity, has provided Dominica with substantial medical support for over thirty years. Currently, more than 65 Cuban medical professionals deliver essential services across the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. The program’s historical significance was highlighted through several landmark achievements, including the establishment of Dominica’s first Intensive Care Unit and the Portsmouth diagnostic center, both staffed and operationalized through Cuban expertise.

    Beyond direct medical provision, the partnership has fostered significant educational development, with approximately 150 Dominican medical graduates trained through Cuban institutions. Henderson expressed profound gratitude for Cuba’s consistent support despite its own resource constraints, characterizing the relationship as one of ‘true friendship’ that has endured through challenging periods.

    The government emphasizes that restructuring efforts are being conducted cooperatively with Cuban partners to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services for Dominican citizens. Further details regarding specific program modifications will be disclosed following the completion of intergovernmental negotiations.

  • IN PICTURES: Randy Baltimore nominated to contest the March 16 by-election in St. Philip North

    IN PICTURES: Randy Baltimore nominated to contest the March 16 by-election in St. Philip North

    The political landscape in St. Philip’s North, Antigua and Barbuda, witnessed significant developments on Wednesday as rival parties formally nominated their candidates for the upcoming parliamentary by-election. The Antigua and Barbuda Labour Party (ABLP) secured Randy Baltimore as their official contender, while the United Progressive Party (UPP) advanced Alex Browne as their representative in what promises to be a fiercely contested race.

    The nomination proceedings unfolded at Willikies Primary School, transforming into a vibrant display of political mobilization. Both candidates arrived accompanied by substantial delegations of enthusiastic supporters, creating an atmosphere charged with competitive energy ahead of the March 16th poll.

    Mr. Baltimore, a former senior customs official, enters the political arena as the ABLP’s designated successor to Sir Robin Yearwood, who recently concluded an extraordinary 50-year parliamentary tenure. Baltimore’s nomination formalities were witnessed by prominent party figures and local constituents, marking his official entry into electoral politics.

    His opponent, Mr. Browne, the UPP’s designated standard bearer for the constituency, similarly demonstrated considerable grassroots backing as he arrived to complete his nomination paperwork. The simultaneous show of force from both camps signals the strategic importance both parties attribute to this eastern corridor constituency.

    The vacancy emerged following the historic retirement of Sir Robin Yearwood, whose five decades of continuous service established a remarkable political legacy. According to Electoral Commission regulations, all candidates must fulfill specific requirements including nomination papers endorsed by a proposer, seconder, and eight additional registered electors from the constituency, accompanied by a $500 EC filing fee.

    The converging of these political forces sets the stage for an intensive three-week campaign period, with voters preparing to determine their new parliamentary representative on the established Polling Day of March 16.

  • Edward takes weight throw Conference title

    Edward takes weight throw Conference title

    Saint Lucian track and field athletes delivered outstanding performances across multiple collegiate indoor championships in the United States, showcasing the Caribbean nation’s growing athletic talent pool.

    At the Mountain East Conference Championships, University of Charleston’s Joy Edward continued her remarkable debut season by capturing the women’s weight throw title with a impressive 17.89m heave, earning First Team All-Conference honors. The Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary School graduate further demonstrated her versatility by securing second place in the shot put with a 14.78m effort, claiming Second Team All-Conference recognition. Edward’s contributions proved crucial as Charleston claimed the conference team championship with 140 points.

    Meanwhile, Naya Jules achieved a personal best performance for Garden State City Community College at the NJCAA Region 6/Jayhawk Conference Indoor Championships. Jules accumulated 2,767 points in the demanding pentathlon event, showing particular improvement in the 800m, shot put, and high jump disciplines. She additionally demonstrated her pole vaulting prowess with a 2.90m clearance.

    Lewis University freshman Cagini Pilgrim emerged as a dual sprint champion at the Lee Slick Invite, clocking personal best times in both the 60m (6.81) and 200m (22.28) events. The rising star now shares the Great Lakes Valley Conference lead in the 60m dash and anchored the winning 4x400m relay team to complete his exceptional meet.

    Other notable performances included Carl Drakes’ strong showing at the MEAC Indoor Championships with fourth in the 60m (6.83) and third in the 200m (21.16), while Asa Francis captured second in the 800m with a time of 1:51.83. Raelyn Cyril earned a podium finish with third place in the 400m (58.33) at the Sam Mosley Relays, highlighting the depth of Saint Lucian talent competing at various collegiate levels across the United States.

  • Tizzy Celebrates Triumphant Return to Trinidad and Tobago, Expresses Gratitude to Corporate Antigua for Unwavering Support.

    Tizzy Celebrates Triumphant Return to Trinidad and Tobago, Expresses Gratitude to Corporate Antigua for Unwavering Support.

    PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO – International soca artist Tizzy has wrapped a highly successful promotional tour in Trinidad and Tobago, establishing a formidable launchpad for her 2026 performance calendar. The accomplished entertainer engaged in an intensive media blitz and delivered eleven powerhouse performances, culminating in a celebrated appearance with renowned mas band Exousia Mas during the carnival festivities.

    The artist extended profound appreciation to corporate sponsors from her native Antigua and Barbuda whose strategic partnerships were instrumental to the tour’s achievements. She specifically credited Paradiso Water, Shouls Liquor and Perfumery, and Cool & Smooth for their vital role in amplifying Antigua and Barbuda’s cultural representation on a premier Caribbean platform.

    Reflecting on the experience, Tizzy described it as ‘extraordinary,’ highlighting the electric energy of performing on the road. She credited her success to a collaborative effort, thanking her Antiguan sponsors, her Trinidad-based logistical team—Mr. Keith Riley, Mr. Damien Malco, and Mr. Denith Nichols—and the musical production contributions of Mr. Glenroy Richards, Black Star Pro, and Mr. Rohan Hector.

    With the Trinidad chapter concluded, Tizzy is now embarking on an international performance schedule. Her global tour is strategically building towards a grand homecoming at the Antigua and Barbuda Carnival 2026, an event touted as the World’s Greatest Summer Festival, where she promises to deliver an unforgettable showcase of music and vibrant energy.

  • Rushana Dwyer wins women’s 400m at Southland Indoor Champs

    Rushana Dwyer wins women’s 400m at Southland Indoor Champs

    Jamaican track and field athletes delivered exceptional performances across multiple collegiate indoor championships in the United States this weekend, headlined by a record-breaking achievement from Northwestern State University’s Rushana Dwyer. At the Southland Conference Indoor Championships in Birmingham, Dwyer shattered the women’s 400m meet record with a blistering time of 52.88 seconds, eclipsing the previous mark of 52.97 seconds set by teammate Maygan Shaw just one year prior.

    Meanwhile, at the prestigious SEC Indoor Championships in College Station, Texas, Jamaican competitors made their presence felt in the jumping events. Texas A&M’s Machaeda Linton matched her seasonal best with a 6.51m leap in the women’s long jump, securing second place behind teammate Morgan Davis. Louisiana State University’s Jordan Turner mirrored this accomplishment in the men’s competition, capturing silver with an impressive 8.10m jump.

    The ACC Indoor Championships in Boston witnessed another standout Jamaican performance as Clemson University’s Brandon Pottinger, the World Athletics Under-20 high jump champion, cleared a personal best 2.14m to claim second place in the men’s high jump. Notably, Pottinger achieved the same height as his Clemson teammate and event winner Shyhiem Scotland.

    Sprint prospects also emerged as University of Florida’s Gabrielle Matthews and University of Texas’ Carleta Bernard both advanced to the women’s 200m final with personal best times of 22.87 and 22.97 seconds respectively, positioning themselves as contenders in Saturday’s championship race.