Carib Scope

分类： sports

  • Supernatural Power, Funcaandun go head to head at Caymanas Park

    Supernatural Power, Funcaandun go head to head at Caymanas Park

    The prestigious Alexander Hamilton Memorial Trophy, featuring a substantial $1.4 million purse, is poised to deliver an electrifying spectacle this afternoon. The highlight of the event is a riveting seven-furlong (1,400m) showdown between two internationally acclaimed contenders, Supernatural Power and Funcaandun, making the outcome highly unpredictable.

    Historical context adds intrigue to this anticipated duel. The rivals last met in the 2025 Mouttet Mile, a one-mile (1,600m) contest where neither emerged victorious. On that occasion, Funcaandun secured a third-place finish, trailing the winner by 9¼ lengths, while Supernatural Power followed closely in fourth, just a half-length behind his rival. The shortened distance of today’s race is expected to dramatically alter the dynamic, potentially favoring different strengths.

    Supernatural Power, conditioned by the prolific champion trainer Philip Feany, enters the race with a formidable reputation for explosive speed. This asset could prove decisive in the final stretch, enabling him to overtake his primary competitor at the critical moment.

    However, Funcaandun presents a formidable challenge, bringing superior experience and a proven track record to the starting gate. With an impressive tally of 10 victories from 18 career starts, he surpasses Supernatural Power’s record of six wins from 10 outings. Funcaandun’s renowned resilience and powerful closing speed establish him as a legitimate threat capable of neutralizing his rival’s early pace advantages.

    While the field includes other participants, racing analysts suggest none possess the comparable caliber of these two standout performers, making it highly improbable for any outsider to intervene in what is anticipated to be a direct battle for supremacy.

    The Open Allowance race, designated for three-year-olds and upward, holds the eighth position on today’s extensive 10-race program, with an expected post time of 4:20 p.m. The day’s events commence at 11:45 a.m.

    — Ruddy Allen

    **Ones to Watch (Selections)**

    • Race 1: Prince Zayden / God of Thunder / Greyt Magnum
    • Race 2: Global Machine / Successful Man / Rock-Ola
    • Race 3: The Techa / Olivia D’Oro / Any Means
    • Race 4: Swashbuckler / Awesome Star / Maybelle
    • Race 5: Indestructible / Kem / Titan Tempo
    • Race 6: Donalmighty / Esuse Me Goodbye / JJ Warrior
    • Race 7: Roman Princess / Native Alliance / Boasey Girl
    • Race 8: **Supernatural Power / Funcaandun / Zulu Warrior**
    • Race 9: D Head Cornerstone / Whisky / Press Conference
    • Race 10: Dark Swan / Native Flyer / Treasure Isles

  • Antonio’s Reggae Boyz return unclear despite club comeback

    Antonio’s Reggae Boyz return unclear despite club comeback

    In a significant personal milestone, Jamaican international striker Michail Antonio has resumed his professional club career with Al-Sailiya in Qatar’s Stars League. The 35-year-old forward completed 73 minutes in Thursday’s fixture against Al-Duhail SC, marking his first competitive appearance since a devastating car accident in Essex two years ago that resulted in a broken leg. His comeback performance included one shot attempt, seven completed passes, and success in four of twelve duels contested.

    Despite this positive step in his recovery, Antonio’s return to Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz remains improbable for the upcoming FIFA World Cup play-offs against New Caledonia and potentially DR Congo. The national team selection committee has consistently overlooked the veteran striker since last September, excluding him from final-round CONCACAF qualifiers and subsequent provisional squads under both former coach Steve McClaren and interim manager Rudolph Speid.

    Football analysts suggest that even if Jamaica secures World Cup qualification, Antonio’s inclusion remains doubtful due to emerging alternatives available to the coaching staff. The former West Ham United star, who departed as the club’s record Premier League goalscorer with 68 goals in 268 appearances, faces an uncertain international future despite previously expressing his dream to participate in this summer’s tournament across North America.

    Antonio’s transition to Qatari football followed unsuccessful trials with English clubs Brentford FC and Leicester City, where training injuries prevented contract offers. His decision to join Al-Sailiya was influenced by international teammate Mason Holgate, with Antonio admitting he needed to ‘swallow his ego’ for this career move. The striker now focuses on helping his new club avoid relegation from Qatar’s top division, with six crucial matches remaining in their season.

  • Princess Margaret School Leads Early Standings at Interschools Track and Field Championships

    Princess Margaret School Leads Early Standings at Interschools Track and Field Championships

    Princess Margaret School has emerged as the dominant force in both gender divisions following the inaugural day of competition at the 2026 Ministry of Sport/Cool & Smooth/JOMA Caribbean National Interschools Track and Field Championships. The prestigious event, currently unfolding at the YASCO Sports Complex, witnessed exceptional athletic performances across six completed events.

    In the female team standings, Princess Margaret School established a commanding lead with 44 points. Pares Secondary School secured second position with 31 points, while St Anthony’s Secondary claimed third with 25.5 points. The top five was completed by All Saints Secondary (22 points) and Ottos Comprehensive School (21.5 points).

    The male division competition revealed equally impressive results, with Princess Margaret School accumulating 37 points to lead the standings. St Joseph Academy trailed closely with 31 points, followed by All Saints Secondary with 30 points. Antigua Grammar School (22 points) and ABCAS (21 points) completed the upper tier of male team rankings.

    Notable performances included Antigua Girls’ High School and Sir Novel Richards Academy tying for sixth position in the female division with 19 points each, while Christ the King High School followed with 18 points. The championships will continue through a four-day schedule featuring comprehensive track and field events, with participating institutions vying for the coveted national interschools title.

  • Sir Vivian Richards Visits Bedford School, Inspiring Students and Strengthening Sporting and Community Ties

    Sir Vivian Richards Visits Bedford School, Inspiring Students and Strengthening Sporting and Community Ties

    Cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards, revered as a national hero of Antigua and Barbuda, delivered an inspirational visit to Bedford School in the United Kingdom, creating lasting memories for students and community members alike. The sporting icon’s appearance fostered cross-cultural connections and emphasized the profound values embedded within athletics.

    Upon his arrival, Sir Vivian received an enthusiastic welcome from Senior School Headmaster James Hodgson and Prep School Headmaster Ian Silk. The preliminary discussions set a collaborative tone for the day, highlighting the school’s upcoming cricket tour to Antigua scheduled for October—an event that formed the backdrop for this significant visit.

    The centerpiece of the occasion was an interactive question-and-answer session hosted in the school’s Great Hall by Ian McGowan, Director of Sport, and Gary Steer, Director of Cricket. Students from the cricket team, performance athletes, and pupils across year groups gathered to gain firsthand wisdom from one of the sport’s most illustrious figures. Sir Vivian spoke candidly about discipline, self-belief, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, leaving a powerful impression on all attendees.

    A particularly memorable segment allowed students to obtain autographs, personalizing the experience and creating cherished mementos. The visit concluded with an exclusive reception at the Langham Pavilion, where Sir Vivian engaged with local community leaders, trustees, cricket club representatives, and press members, further strengthening ties between sporting and educational institutions.

    Reflecting on the event, Sir Vivian remarked, ‘I was delighted to share a little of my journey and to encourage the next generation to pursue excellence both on and off the field.’

    The impact was echoed by Zarrell Harding, a young cricketer affiliated with Barbados youth teams, who described the encounter as ‘a proud and unforgettable experience,’ adding that the encouragement from Sir Vivian reinforced his determination to develop his potential.

    This visit was coordinated through a partnership between Ian McGowan and Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill, Antigua and Barbuda’s High Commissioner to the UK, with additional support provided by the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.

  • Group of fifteen head to final Carifta trials in Martinique

    Group of fifteen head to final Carifta trials in Martinique

    Dominica’s athletic delegation is poised for crucial competition as the Dominica Athletics Association confirms a 15-member team will participate in the final CARIFTA Trials this weekend in Martinique. The decisive qualifying event scheduled for March 14-15 represents the ultimate opportunity for athletes to secure their positions for the prestigious 2026 CARIFTA Games.

    The comprehensive delegation features nine pre-qualified athletes alongside experienced coaching and support staff. The technical team includes Team Manager Philip White, Technical Officer Walson Paquette, and national coaches Naby Wallace and Godwin Dorsett. Support personnel comprise Media Officer Judy Larroche and Safeguarding Officer Antoine Lewis, ensuring comprehensive athlete welfare and coverage.

    Qualified athletes set to compete include J’Michael Titre, Keyoni Esprit, Akisha Luke, Kedella Victor, Omari Caesar, Shariah Lewis, Delanie George, Zayden Cornelius, and Kuma John-Baptist. These athletes have already met qualification standards and will use the event as vital preparation for the main games.

    Additional athletes from Sparrows Athletics Club (seven competitors) and Westmar Rangers (two competitors) will also participate, attempting to achieve national qualification standards during this final trial opportunity. The association emphasized the dual nature of the event: serving as competitive preparation for already-qualified athletes while providing a last-chance qualifying platform for those seeking to join Team Dominica’s final contingent.

    The audio release from the athletics association highlighted the strategic importance of these trials in finalizing Dominica’s representation for the regional championship event, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to developing track and field excellence across multiple disciplines.

  • Injury hits CARIFTA star Jady Emmanuel

    Injury hits CARIFTA star Jady Emmanuel

    Saint Lucia’s track and field sensation Jady Emmanuel is battling against the clock to recover from a significant injury ahead of next month’s CARIFTA Games in Grenada. The double CARIFTA sprint champion sustained the injury during the preliminary rounds of the Island Champs at Daren Sammy Cricket Ground on March 10.

    The 17-year-old rising star, who has committed to attend the University of Texas starting this September, collapsed during her fourth and final event—the Under-18 girls’ 4x100m relay—while competing for Choiseul Secondary School. After receiving the baton behind the pack, Emmanuel dramatically pulled her team into second position and was challenging for the lead when the injury occurred, forcing Choiseul Secondary to withdraw from the race.

    Earlier in the competition, Emmanuel had demonstrated her exceptional form by posting the top qualifying time in the 200m and the second-fastest time in the 100m events, effortlessly advancing through the preliminary rounds. She had opted not to compete in the 4x400m relay, where her school still managed to qualify for the finals.

    Preliminary medical assessments conducted after the incident have produced uncertain results regarding her leg injury, with recovery estimates ranging from one week to two months. This development has ruled Emmanuel out of the National Junior Championships scheduled for this weekend at Soufriere Stadium and likely concludes her participation in the ongoing Island Champs.

    The athlete made history at last year’s CARIFTA Games in Trinidad & Tobago by winning both the Under-17 girls’ 100m and 200m events—marking Saint Lucia’s first-ever medals in these competitions at this level. This year, she would have been eligible to compete in the Under-20 division, making her potential absence particularly significant for Saint Lucia’s athletic representation.

  • Venues named for Blackheart Football Tournament

    Venues named for Blackheart Football Tournament

    Saint Lucia’s beloved Blackheart Football Tournament makes its triumphant return in 2026 after a one-year hiatus, with four community venues selected through unprecedented fan participation. The month-long knockout competition, scheduled from May 1-30, will unfold across four strategically chosen locations: Vieux Fort, Soufrière, Gros Islet, and Dennery.

    The venue selection process marked a significant shift toward fan engagement, with organizers implementing an online poll that attracted over 2,700 votes. This democratic approach allowed supporters to directly influence the tournament’s geographical footprint, with voting specifically focused on enclosed venues that enhance both security and spectator experience.

    Vieux Fort’s Phillip ‘Magii’ Marcellin Grounds emerged as the overwhelming favorite, capturing approximately 30% of all votes (800 total) despite previous security concerns that had limited its use in recent years. Soufrière Stadium followed closely with 750 votes, while Gros Islet’s Francis ‘Baba’ Lastic Grounds secured 665 votes. Dennery’s Mabouya Valley Playing Field completed the selection with 400 votes, notably outperforming Mindoo Phillip Park in Castries, which garnered merely 100 votes.

    David ‘Shakes’ Christopher, CEO of Blackheart Productions, emphasized the significance of community involvement: ‘The overwhelming participation reflects the passion and growing support for community football throughout the island. These venues represent key football communities across Saint Lucia and will provide an exciting stage for teams and supporters to come together in celebration of the sport.’

    The tournament, which has evolved into one of the nation’s most anticipated sporting events, promises to deliver its characteristic blend of competitive excellence, sportsmanship, and community entertainment. Defending champions La Clery will return to defend their title earned in the 2024 competition. Organizers have indicated that additional announcements regarding team registration procedures, detailed match schedules, and prize structures will follow in the coming weeks.

  • Fired Up win in KFC Basketball debut

    Fired Up win in KFC Basketball debut

    In a thrilling display of resilience, newcomers Fired Up Fitness secured a 60-53 comeback victory against East Coast Academy in Wednesday night’s KFC National Basketball League matchup at Beausejour Gymnasium. The game’s pivotal performance came from fireman and former West Indies rugby winger Jerry Charles, who emerged as the decisive factor in the contest.

    East Coast Academy established early dominance, closing the first quarter with a 24-22 advantage. However, their offensive momentum faltered dramatically as they managed only 29 points across the subsequent three quarters. Fired Up Fitness maintained relentless pressure, culminating in a decisive final period performance. With three minutes remaining and a narrow three-point lead, Charles delivered a game-sealing three-pointer that secured the victory.

    Charles earned the KFC Player of the Game honor with 14 points, shouldering increased offensive responsibility after teammate Kerwin Sealy exited early in the third quarter with a hamstring injury. Sealy had contributed 8 points and 4 rebounds before his departure. The team received additional support from Simeon Medard and Simeon Hippolyte, each adding 9 points to the scoreboard.

    Despite the loss, East Coast Academy witnessed exceptional individual performance from Sage Lewis, who achieved career-best numbers with a game-high 25 points and 12 rebounds. Tyler “Shrimpy” Hubain provided solid support with 7 points and 9 rebounds.

    The league action continues Friday with Bonne Terre Blazers and Courts Jets both seeking their second victories in a 6 p.m. tipoff, followed by East Coast Academy facing Morne Gladiators at 8 p.m.

  • Santo Domingo Malecón to host giant-screen viewing for Dominican Republic vs. Korea

    Santo Domingo Malecón to host giant-screen viewing for Dominican Republic vs. Korea

    Santo Domingo’s municipal government, led by Mayor Carolina Mejía, has partnered with Panorama Media Group to organize a major public viewing event for the upcoming World Baseball Classic game. The Dominican Republic’s highly anticipated matchup against South Korea will be broadcast live on multiple giant screens at Plaza Santo Domingo this Friday at 6:30 p.m.

    The initiative comes as a direct response to the overwhelming turnout of baseball enthusiasts who gathered at the same venue to watch the Dominican team’s previous game against Venezuela. Building on that success, organizers have prepared enhanced facilities including security personnel, portable restrooms, and food vendors to ensure a comfortable and festive atmosphere for all attendees.

    Mayor Mejía enthusiastically encouraged capital residents to attend wearing national team merchandise and Dominican flags to show support for their undefeated squad. The Dominican team has advanced convincingly through the tournament’s initial round and is widely regarded as a top contender for the championship title. This complimentary public viewing event aims to foster community spirit and celebrate the nation’s deep-rooted passion for baseball while providing families with an accessible entertainment option.

  • Caye Caulker Crocodiles Clash with Rugby Union

    Caye Caulker Crocodiles Clash with Rugby Union

    A dramatic schism has erupted within Belize’s rugby community, culminating in the indefinite suspension of the Caye Caulker Crocodiles Rugby Club by the national governing body. The Rugby Football Union of Belize (RFUB) imposed the sanction after the club refused to comply with an order to remove social media content featuring the ‘Rugby Belize’ logo, which the union claims was utilized without authorization.

    The conflict centers on the intellectual property rights to the branding. Tony Gillings, owner of the privately registered company Rugby Belize and the club’s primary sponsor, asserts his legal entitlement to the logo. Gillings revealed to press that he originally established the organization a decade ago as rugby’s founding body in the nation before formally registering it as a private enterprise upon his departure from the governing structure.

    The RFUB, based in San Ignacio, maintains that its constitution grants it supreme authority as the national governing body and mandates that all registered clubs acknowledge this supremacy. The suspension effectively bans the Crocodiles from all officially sanctioned rugby activities in the country.

    Gillings has condemned the union’s decision as counterproductive, arguing it fosters division when the sport is in dire need of unified support and development. He further contends the RFUB is overstepping its jurisdiction, as it lacks the authority to regulate club sponsorships or prohibit the use of legally registered logos. Defiantly, Gillings announced the club’s intention to proceed with an independent beach rugby tournament in Caye Caulker, highlighting the absence of other active clubs or tournaments in Belize that the union could actually prevent them from joining.