Saint Lucia’s elite boxers, John Didier and Kyle Marcel, have been selected to represent their nation at the 2025 International Boxing Association (IBA) Men’s World Boxing Championships. The prestigious event, scheduled for December 2-13 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, will feature a staggering total prize pool of USD$8.32 million, with winners earning $300,000 and fifth-place finishers taking home $10,000. The announcement was made by the Saint Lucia Boxing Association (SLBA), which hailed this as a landmark achievement for the country, placing it on one of the most celebrated stages in global boxing. The championships will be held at the Dubai Tennis Stadium and are part of the inaugural IBA ‘Festival of Boxing,’ a 12-day celebration of the sport. The SLBA attributed this opportunity to Saint Lucia’s unwavering loyalty to the IBA and its active role in promoting boxing across the Caribbean and within the Americas Boxing Confederation (AMBC). Despite the IBA’s controversial status—having been stripped of recognition by the International Olympic Committee in 2023 due to corruption and financial transparency issues—Saint Lucia has remained a committed member. In contrast, nations like Barbados and Grenada have shifted allegiance to the rival World Boxing organization to secure Olympic pathways for their athletes. The SLBA emphasized that the inclusion of Didier and Marcel underscores the benefits of consistent support, strategic development, and international collaboration. Both athletes recently showcased their prowess at the Open International Boxing Tournament in Guadeloupe, with Didier securing gold and Marcel earning silver. The 2025 championships are anticipated to draw top-tier boxers and global audiences, providing Didier and Marcel with a unique platform to demonstrate their skills and proudly represent Saint Lucia.
分类： sports
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And that’s a wrap! Republic Bank ‘Five for Fun’ 2025 ignites Guyana with thrilling finale
The National Gymnasium in Georgetown witnessed an electrifying conclusion to the Republic Bank ‘Five for Fun’ Cricket Programme on November 15, 2025, as St Lawrence Primary from Essequibo emerged victorious in a fiercely contested national championship. The indoor venue, necessitated by unseasonal rains, failed to dampen the spirits as young athletes delivered a spectacular display of skill and sportsmanship.
This grassroots initiative, now in its third year of operation in Guyana, has evolved into a significant developmental platform for youth cricket. The 2025 edition engaged 75 primary schools across all three counties—Demerara, Berbice, and Essequibo—providing hundreds of children with exposure to cricket fundamentals through an inclusive, fast-paced format emphasizing participation and enjoyment.
The championship finale featured round-robin competition between county champions: St Lawrence Primary (Essequibo), Massiah Primary (Berbice), and Supply Primary (Demerara). After intense competition, St Lawrence prevailed over a determined Massiah Primary team to claim the national title.
Tournament accolades were distributed among standout performers: Tianna Steele of St Lawrence secured both Best Batter and Tournament Most Valuable Player honors. Susanie Turnail (Massiah Primary) received Best Bowler recognition, while Avidesh Pitam (Massiah Primary) earned Best Fielder distinction. The Spirit of the Game award was presented to Massiah Primary for exemplary sportsmanship.
Senior officials highlighted the program’s significance in national sports development. Ronald Williams, Secretary of the Guyana Cricket Board, emphasized the partnership between Cricket West Indies and Republic Bank creates “a pathway for young cricketers to develop skills progressively from tender ages through structured cricket programs.”
Marti De Souza, Deputy Chief Education Officer, connected the tournament to President Ali’s vision for holistic student development, noting the alignment with goals for creating “well-rounded pupils who are healthy and active.”
The Honourable Steven Jacobs, Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, challenged organizers to expand the program’s reach, urging expansion “into the hinterland to discover talented athletes” and increase participation beyond the current 75 schools.
Republic Bank representatives reaffirmed their commitment to the initiative. Jonelle Dummett, Manager of Marketing and Communications, stated: “Our goal is to spark curiosity, build confidence and develop skills that can turn today’s young enthusiasts into tomorrow’s cricket legends.”
KJ Singh, Cricket West Indies Senior Project Officer, confirmed the organization’s dedication to working with stakeholders to “expand our reach to more communities and schools annually” as the program looks toward the 2026 season.
Guyana’s finale marked the conclusion of the 2025 ‘Five for Fun’ Programme across the Caribbean, following successful tournaments in St. Lucia, Grenada, St. Kitts & Nevis, and Trinidad & Tobago.
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Change of route for Run Barbados Race events
The Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), the organizing body behind the highly anticipated 2025 Run Barbados Marathon and Wellness Weekend, has unveiled significant changes to the race routes for the event scheduled from December 5 to 7. Due to ongoing road construction along the Ermie Bourne Highway, the starting points for the 5K Run & Walk, 10K Run, Half Marathon, and Marathon have been relocated from Barclays Park to the Bay Street Esplanade in St. Michael. The popular Fun Mile, however, will remain unaffected and will continue to be held at the Garrison Savannah as originally planned. Kamal Springer, Manager of Sports at BTMI, emphasized that the decision to alter the routes was made after thorough consideration of the logistical challenges posed by the roadworks and extensive consultations with relevant authorities. Springer assured participants and stakeholders that the event would still deliver an exceptional experience, stating, ‘Run Barbados Marathon and Wellness Weekend remains committed to providing a memorable experience for all involved. While this change may require some adjustment, it ensures the event’s smooth execution and maintains the high quality of the experience for participants, volunteers, and spectators.’ The Run Barbados series, which initially featured only the Bridgetown 10K and the Marathon, has a long-standing tradition of starting and finishing the 10K race at the scenic Bay Street Esplanade. BTMI encourages all runners and spectators to join in what promises to be a remarkable weekend of fitness and wellness.
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Voetbal wordt leermiddel: Football for Schools van start
FIFA’s global Football for Schools initiative has officially expanded to Suriname, aiming to harness the power of football to foster not only athletic development but also essential social and life skills among young people. The program seeks to support schools in systematically integrating sports to promote personal growth, healthy behaviors, and active citizenship. By teaching students skills such as self-confidence, critical thinking, decision-making, teamwork, and respect, the initiative aligns with the goals of Suriname’s Ministry of Youth Development and Sports (JOS), which views sports as a vital tool for comprehensive youth development. Jason Menso, Deputy Director of Training, Information, and Sports Development at JOS, emphasized the strategic potential of football in education. ‘Football is accessible and immensely popular. It can be strategically used to empower young people, which is precisely what Football for Schools aims to achieve: developing life experiences and competencies through sport,’ he stated. The program focuses on equal opportunities for all youth, including girls, and encourages talent development and societal participation. It also contributes to social cohesion and healthier lifestyles within communities. ‘By placing schools at the center, this program makes sports widely accessible and leverages them as a powerful tool for positive youth development,’ Menso added. A two-day training session for physical education teachers recently commenced at the Owru Cul Sports Complex, preparing them to implement Football for Schools in various schools across Suriname. The training familiarizes teachers with the program’s methodology, practical approaches, and underlying values, enabling them to effectively guide students. According to FIFA, international research demonstrates that Football for Schools helps countries address social and economic challenges through sport, in alignment with sustainable development goals. In Suriname, the program is being executed by the Surinamese Football Association (SVB) in collaboration with FIFA and UNICEF.
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Cricket West Indies announces team for test series against New Zealand
Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced its 15-player squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against New Zealand, set to take place from December 1 to December 21 across Christchurch, Wellington, and Mount Maunganui. The series is part of the ICC World Test Championship for 2025-2027 and marks the West Indies’ final fixture of the year.
Due to injuries sustained earlier this year, Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph will be unavailable for the tour. In their absence, experienced fast bowler Kemar Roach has been recalled to bolster the squad’s pace attack, which also includes newcomer Ojay Shields, receiving his first national call-up. The team recently completed a two-week high-performance camp in Antigua, focusing on preparing for the pace-friendly conditions expected in New Zealand.
Kavem Hodge has been included in the squad following impressive performances against fast bowling, while Khary Pierre has been omitted as spin bowling is not anticipated to play a significant role in the series.
Miles Bascombe, CWI’s Director of Cricket, emphasized the importance of targeted preparation for the tour. He highlighted the efforts made to replicate New Zealand’s conditions during the high-performance camp in Antigua. Bascombe noted that several squad members are already in New Zealand for the white-ball portion of the tour, giving them valuable time to acclimate.
The Caribbean-based players joined the rest of the squad in New Zealand on November 20, allowing them time to adjust and participate in a two-day warm-up match against a New Zealand XI in Lincoln, Christchurch.
West Indies Test Squad for New Zealand:
– Roston Chase (Captain)
– Jomel Warrican (Vice-Captain)
– Alick Athanaze
– John Campbell
– Tagenarine Chanderpaul
– Justin Greaves
– Kavem Hodge
– Shai Hope
– Tevin Imlach
– Brandon King
– Johann Layne
– Anderson Phillip
– Kemar Roach
– Jayden Seales
– Ojay ShieldsTeam Management:
– Head Coach: Daren Sammy
– Manager: Rawl Lewis
– Assistant Coach (Batting): Floyd Reifer
– Assistant Coach (Bowling): Ravi Rampaul
– Assistant Coach (Fielding): Rayon Griffith
– Physiotherapist: Dr. Denis Byam
– Mental Skills/Performance Coach: Krisnan Hurdle
– Strength & Conditioning Coach: Darc Browne
– Massage Therapist: Fitzbert Alleyne
– Performance Analyst: Avenesh Seetaram
– Content & Media Officer: Jerome FosterTour Schedule (Caribbean Time):
– Warm-Up Match: November 25-26, Lincoln, Christchurch
– 1st Test: December 1-5, Hagley Oval, Christchurch, at 6 pm AST / 5 pm Jamaica time
– 2nd Test: December 9-13, Basin Reserve, Wellington, at 6 pm AST / 5 pm Jamaica time
– 3rd Test: December 17-21, Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, at 6 pm AST / 5 pm Jamaica time -
Red Force hoping for clear skies vs Scorpions
The CG United Super50 Cup has kicked off with a mix of weather disruptions and thrilling cricket action. Trinidad and Tobago Red Force are eagerly awaiting clear skies for their upcoming match against Jamaica Scorpions at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba on November 21. Their initial game against Barbados Royals at the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground in St Augustine was abandoned due to relentless rain, resulting in both teams sharing two points each. The match, delayed by over five hours due to a wet outfield, was reduced to a 20-over contest. Barbados openers Kyle Mayers and Leniko Boucher managed an unbeaten 48-run partnership before the rain returned, halting play indefinitely. Similarly, the clash between Guyana Harpy Eagles and Jamaica Scorpions at the Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain ended in a no-result after Guyana posted 287/7 in 47.1 overs. In contrast, Windward Islands Volcanoes secured a dramatic two-wicket victory over Leeward Islands Hurricanes at Tarouba, propelling them to the top of the table. Leewards set a formidable target of 324, powered by Kofi James’ century and half-centuries from Mikyle Louis and Carlon Bowen-Tuckett. Windwards’ chase was anchored by Darron Nedd’s 94 and Dillon Douglas’ 61, culminating in a thrilling win with 325/8 in 43.5 overs. As the tournament progresses, Red Force hopes for better weather to keep their title aspirations alive, while Windwards aim to continue their winning streak against Guyana Harpy Eagles.
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New TT hockey board executive appointed
The Trinidad and Tobago Hockey Board (TTHB) has ushered in a new leadership era following its 28th annual council meeting held at the National Racquet Centre in Tacarigua on November 17, 2025. The elections marked a significant transition as the board appointed its executive for the 2025–2027 term. Cindy Martin-Faustin of Paragon Hockey Club was unanimously elected as president, leaving her previous role as an elected member vacant. This position was subsequently filled by Natakii Bua, who was also elected unopposed. The election saw five key positions contested, including president, second vice-president, third vice-president, honorary treasurer, and assistant secretary. Rob Wyatt of Prosport secured the second vice-president role without opposition, while Akil Nancoo of Notre Dame Hockey Club triumphed in the only contested race for third vice-president. Riger Gomes of QPCC and Teresa Lezama of Malvern Sports Club were elected unopposed as honorary treasurer and assistant secretary, respectively. The meeting, which commenced at 6:54 p.m., also addressed the transition of several officer positions whose terms concluded in 2025. The newly elected executive will serve until 2027, with some roles continuing from their 2024–2026 terms. The TTHB’s leadership now includes Cindy Martin-Faustin as president, Garth Baptiste as first vice-president, Rob Wyatt as second vice-president, Akil Nancoo as third vice-president, Riger Gomes as honorary treasurer, Anthony Marcano as assistant treasurer, Reyah Richardson as honorary secretary, Teresa Lezama as assistant secretary, Ayanna McClean as an elected member, and Natakii Bua as an elected member.
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Damien Adams storms into Pan-Am MMA semi-final
Trinidad and Tobago (TT) athletes have made significant strides at the 2025 International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) Pan-Americana Championship in Monterrey, Mexico. Damien Adams secured a swift victory in the men’s featherweight (65.8 kg) category, defeating El Salvador’s Gabriel Barrera via submission with 47 seconds remaining in the first round. Adams’ dominant performance earned him a spot in the semi-finals, scheduled for November 21. Joining him is Joshua James, who will compete in the men’s super lightweight (74.8 kg) semi-final against Mexico’s Luis Angel Rodriguez Dominguez. Meanwhile, Michael Serrette has already advanced to the super heavyweight final, awaiting the winner of an all-Mexico semi-final clash. The TT delegation, led by national coach Keron Bourne and TTMMAF president Jason Fraser, continues to showcase the country’s growing prowess in mixed martial arts. This year marks TT’s sixth consecutive appearance at the championship, a testament to their dedication despite financial challenges. Fraser emphasized the need for private-sector support to sustain youth development programs, urging corporations to invest in athletes from disadvantaged backgrounds. The championship, featuring 17 nations, is part of IMMAF’s global series of tournaments, highlighting the sport’s expanding reach and impact.
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Rene Simoes seeks third Reggae Boyz stint
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Rene Simoes, the Brazilian coach who famously guided Jamaica to their historic FIFA World Cup qualification in 1998, has expressed interest in taking charge of the Reggae Boyz once again. This time, he aims to lead the team through the Intercontinental play-offs scheduled for March 2026. Sources close to Observer Online reveal that Simoes, now 72, has garnered support from several members of the iconic 1998 squad and has formally communicated his intentions to the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF).
The coaching vacancy emerged following the abrupt resignation of Englishman Steve McClaren on Tuesday. McClaren stepped down after Jamaica’s disappointing 0-0 draw against Curacao, which left them second in their group with 11 points, narrowly missing an automatic qualifying spot for the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Jamaica’s next challenge will be against New Caledonia in March 2026, with a potential follow-up match against the Democratic Republic of Congo, the winner of which will secure a World Cup berth.
Simoes’ legacy with Jamaica is marked by his historic achievement in 1998, when he led the Reggae Boyz to their first and only World Cup appearance. The team secured a memorable 2-1 victory over Japan in their final group-stage match, despite earlier losses to Croatia and Argentina. However, his second stint with the national team in 2008 was less successful, culminating in his dismissal after a 2-0 defeat to Honduras.
In the interim, the JFF is expected to appoint a temporary coach by Friday, with Rudolph Speid, the coach of Premier League champions Cavalier and chairman of the Technical Committee, reportedly being a top contender. Speid has played a pivotal role in recent coaching decisions, including the dismissal of Theodore Whitmore and the appointments of Heimir Hallgrimsson and McClaren.
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Windies coach Daren Sammy: We never wrote off Roach
West Indies head coach Daren Sammy has emphasized that veteran fast bowler Kemar Roach was never excluded from the team’s long-term plans, despite earlier suggestions of a transition to younger players. Roach, 37, has been recalled to the 15-man squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against New Zealand, scheduled from December 1 to 21. His inclusion comes as a result of injuries to key bowlers Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph, who are sidelined for the remainder of the year. Roach, who made his Test debut in 2008, boasts an impressive record of 284 wickets in 85 Tests, placing him fifth among West Indies’ all-time leading wicket-takers in the format. Sammy highlighted Roach’s experience and leadership as crucial assets for the team, particularly in New Zealand’s challenging conditions. The squad also features uncapped Jamaican pacer Ojay Shields, whose raw pace adds variety to the attack. Despite earlier comments from Cricket West Indies director Miles Bascombe about planning for future World Test Championships, Sammy clarified that Roach remained a viable option. The West Indies are currently struggling in the white-ball segment of their New Zealand tour, having lost the T20 series 3-1 and trailing 2-0 in the ODI series. Sammy expressed optimism about the Test series, citing the team’s preparation and the return of middle-order batsman Kavem Hodge, who has previously excelled in similar conditions. The squad will play a warm-up match in Christchurch before the first Test begins on December 1.