分类: sports

  • Shenese Walker, Tyrice Taylor ahead in their events at NCAA Indoor Championships

    Shenese Walker, Tyrice Taylor ahead in their events at NCAA Indoor Championships

    Jamaican athletes delivered a spectacular performance during Friday’s preliminary rounds at the NCAA Division 1 Indoor Track and Field Championships, with several competitors establishing themselves as frontrunners for national titles at the University of Arkansas’ Tyson Sports Complex.

    Shenese Walker of Florida State University emerged as the standout performer, clocking a personal best and NCAA season-leading time of 7.07 seconds in the women’s 60-meter dash. The remarkable sprint not only shattered her previous Florida State program record of 7.09 seconds but positioned her as the athlete to beat in Saturday’s final.

    In middle-distance events, Tyrice Taylor from the host University of Arkansas demonstrated exceptional form by topping the men’s 800-meter qualifiers with a time of 1:46.16 seconds. Taylor will be joined in the final by teammate Rivaldo Marshall, who secured the third qualifying position with 1:46.55 seconds.

    The women’s sprint events featured additional Jamaican talent as University of Florida’s Gabrielle Matthews achieved a personal best of 22.71 seconds in the 200-meter qualifiers, earning the fourth-fastest time. Meanwhile, Georgia teammates Shaquena Foote and Dejanea Oakley demonstrated remarkable synchronization by both recording identical times of 51.43 seconds in the women’s 400-meter preliminaries.

    Hurdles events saw mixed results for Jamaican competitors. Baylor University’s Demario Prince advanced to the next round with the seventh-best time (7.49 seconds) in the men’s 60-meter hurdles, narrowly edging out Arkansas’ Cashaun Vascianna (7.54 seconds). However, Arkansas’ Jerome Campbell missed qualification by two positions with his 10th-place finish (7.56 seconds).

    In women’s hurdles, Clemson’s Oneka Wilson secured her place in the final with a time of 8.07 seconds, while Auburn’s Danae Nembhard fell just short of advancement despite a strong 8.09-second effort.

    Field events featured Jordan Turner of Louisiana State University claiming sixth position in the men’s long jump with a leap of 7.97 meters, though Texas A&M’s Machaeda Linton faced disappointment with fouled attempts in the women’s long jump competition.

    Simultaneously, at the NCAA Division 2 championships in Virginia Beach, Tusculum University’s Lansford Cunningham represented Jamaica with a sixth-place finish in the men’s long jump, recording a distance of 7.36 meters.

  • DABA announces upcoming annual general meeting and launch of the 2026 basketball season in Dominica

    DABA announces upcoming annual general meeting and launch of the 2026 basketball season in Dominica

    The Dominica Amateur Basketball Association (DABA) has issued a formal summons to all affiliated teams, club representatives, and basketball stakeholders for its crucial Annual General Meeting scheduled for April 7, 2026. This strategic convening marks the official commencement of preparations for the highly anticipated 2026 basketball season.

    According to official communications, the AGM will function as a comprehensive platform for organizational assessment, governance review, and developmental planning. The meeting agenda includes critical deliberations on management strategies and advancement initiatives for Dominican basketball. The association emphasizes that participant engagement is paramount for shaping the sport’s future trajectory across the nation.

    The physical gathering will be hosted at the prestigious Dominica Olympic Committee Conference Room at 5:00 PM, with simultaneous virtual access provided through Zoom conferencing facilities. This hybrid approach ensures maximum participation from all basketball constituencies.

    DABA officials confirm the 2026 competitive season will tip off on April 11, 2026, immediately following the strategic meeting. Teams aspiring to participate must complete registration formalities by the absolute deadline of April 10, 2026. The association maintains its institutional commitment to cultivating basketball excellence through structured national competitions that benefit players, coaches, officials, and franchise organizations.

    Early registration is strongly advised to guarantee league inclusion. For procedural assistance and registration particulars, interested organizations may direct inquiries to the official administrative address: daba.dom@outlook.com.

  • Record Participation Expected for National Interschool Championships

    Record Participation Expected for National Interschool Championships

    Antigua and Barbuda is poised to host one of its largest youth athletic events in recent history as the National Interschool Championships prepares to welcome nearly 700 student competitors. The four-day tournament, set to take place at YASCO grounds from March 12-15, has garnered unprecedented institutional support with Cabinet members personally committing to attend and champion the event.

    During the weekly post-Cabinet media briefing, Director General of Communications Maurice Merchant revealed that government officials expressed particular enthusiasm for the championships, which represent a cornerstone of the national school sports calendar. The competition will feature track and field athletes from educational institutions across the twin-island nation, showcasing emerging talent in various athletic disciplines.

    The Office of the Prime Minister has issued a formal invitation to citizens, urging widespread public attendance to bolster morale for the young participants. Merchant conveyed the Cabinet’s collective message: ‘The general public is invited to come out and support young athletes and the Cabinet sends its best wishes and success to all of the athletes.’ This endorsement underscores the government’s commitment to fostering youth development through sports.

    Organizers emphasize that the championships serve as a critical platform for identifying and nurturing athletic potential while promoting physical activity among the youth population. The anticipated record participation reflects growing interest in school-based sports programs and indicates a positive trajectory for athletic development in the country.

  • Alphonse excels ahead of international duty

    Alphonse excels ahead of international duty

    Saint Lucian cyclist Denver Alphonse Jr. is poised for international competition following an impressive performance at the Grand Prix UCS in Martinique, which served as his final preparatory event. The 18-year-old athlete secured second place in his division and 13th overall in a competitive field of 59 riders, finishing approximately seven minutes behind repeat champion Kyllian Boscher of VC Diamantinois in the 93.9-kilometre race around Saint-Esprit.

    This performance marks Alphonse’s strongest finish this year and demonstrates significant progress in his cycling career. As the Under-23 silver medalist representing ASC Karaïbes Culture Sports, Alphonse views this result as validation of his growing capabilities against Martinique’s cycling standards.

    In an interview with St. Lucia Times, Alphonse expressed his motivation: “Last weekend’s race meant a lot to me because it’s showing that I am improving and meeting the standards of cycling in Martinique. I will continue working hard for more improvement.”

    The young athlete now turns his attention to the Road Continental Pan American Championships in Córdoba, Colombia, scheduled for March 17-22. Alphonse will compete in the Under-23 category, beginning with the 36-kilometer time trial on March 18th, followed by the demanding 160.8-kilometer road race on March 21st.

    Regarding his championship goals, Alphonse maintains a focused perspective: “With regard to Pan American Championships, my goal is to do my best, compete hard, and cross that finishing line, because I will be going up against top continental riders.” The championships will feature competition across multiple categories including Under-19, Under-23, and Elite divisions for both male and female athletes.

  • Cenac, Maximin headline Island Champs winners

    Cenac, Maximin headline Island Champs winners

    The third day of the Saint Lucia Island Championships witnessed exceptional performances from young track and field talents, with Destinee Cenac and Barbara-Marie Maximin emerging as standout athletes. The event, held simultaneously at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground and the Saint Lucia Sports Academy on March 11th, saw the first field event champions crowned amidst fierce competition.

    Destinee Cenac, a reigning CARIFTA Games bronze medalist in high jump, continued her impressive season by clearing 1.71 meters for the second time this year. The St. Joseph’s Convent student, who previously earned bronze at the regional championship, comfortably secured the Under-18 gold medal with a 1.45m clearance, demonstrating her consistent dominance in the event.

    Barbara-Marie Maximin, previously noted for her sprinting prowess during Monday’s preliminary rounds, achieved a career-defining moment in the long jump pit. The Beanefield Comprehensive student soared to a remarkable 5.61 meters, significantly improving upon her previous CARIFTA qualifying standard of 5.36m set at the Independence Games. This personal best positions her as a strong medal contender for the upcoming regional championship. Cenac finished second in this event with a 5.00m jump.

    The championships also featured impressive performances across various divisions. Angelle Joseph of Clendon Mason Memorial secured victory in the Under-18 girls javelin with a 27.73m throw, while Clowie William claimed the Under-20 javelin title with a 35.37m effort for Saint Lucia Sports Academy. Syesha Rogers of Sir Arthur Lewis Community College triumphed in the long jump with a 5.29m leap.

    In men’s field events, Sherwin Carter (Micoud Secondary) cleared 1.75m for the Under-18 high jump title, while Anwar Gill (SALCC) captured the Under-20 crown with a 1.80m clearance. Javelin competitions saw Josan Henry (Vieux Fort Comprehensive) win the Under-18 division with 47.24m, and national footballer Jequan Joseph dominate the Under-20 category with a massive 52.53m throw for SLSA.

    The championships also recognized winners in younger divisions including Phoebe Jolie (U14 girls long jump, 4.45m), Kezie Edward (U14 girls ball throw, 45.07m), Lorvelle Sonson (U16 girls long jump, 4.90m), and Rayanna Joseph (U16 girls javelin, 27.58m). Javi Preville (CMMSS) threw 64.93m in U14 boys ball throw, while Renard Bernard (VFCSS) achieved 44.10m in U16 boys javelin.

  • West Indies Women Name Unchanged Squad for Blockbuster T20 Clash Against Australia

    West Indies Women Name Unchanged Squad for Blockbuster T20 Clash Against Australia

    Cricket West Indies has confirmed an unchanged women’s squad selection for their upcoming T20 International series against Australia’s top-ranked team, scheduled for March 19-23 at Arnos Vale Cricket Ground in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

    The Caribbean side, fresh from their recent home tour against Sri Lanka, will field the same roster that demonstrated resilience in their previous encounter. Despite losing the ODI series 2-1 to Sri Lanka, the team showcased their potential with a spectacular century from captain Hayley Matthews that secured a decisive six-wicket victory in the final match.

    This series represents a critical preparatory phase for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in the United Kingdom later this year. The West Indies lineup blends seasoned veterans with promising young talent, featuring established stars Stafanie Taylor and Deandra Dottin alongside emerging prospects Eboni Brathwaite (17) and Jahzara Claxton (19). Wicketkeeper-batter Shemaine Campbelle approaches a significant milestone, poised to earn her 150th T20 International cap during the competition.

    Head Coach Shane Deitz emphasized the strategic importance of facing the world’s best team before the global tournament. “We’re genuinely excited about testing ourselves against the number one ranked team,” Deitz stated. “This series provides the perfect benchmark to evaluate our progress since our last meeting in October 2023 and identify areas needing improvement before the World Cup in June.”

    The teams will subsequently travel to Warner Park in St. Kitts and Nevis for a three-match ODI series following the T20 encounters. Cricket enthusiasts across the region can attend all matches free of charge or stream the action via ESPN’s Disney+ service, ensuring widespread accessibility to what promises to be an electrifying display of women’s cricket.

  • Archers shoot in VINCY 900 competition

    Archers shoot in VINCY 900 competition

    In a landmark event for the nation’s sporting community, the Archery Association of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has successfully conducted its inaugural iVINCY 900 SHOOT competition. This historic tournament introduced local archers to an innovative scoring format specifically designed to enhance technical proficiency through comprehensive distance challenges.

    The competition structure required participants to fire 30 arrows at three progressively challenging distances, totaling 90 arrows with a perfect score potential of 900 points. Unlike elimination-based tournaments, this format emphasized consistent performance across all ranges without removing participants during the event.

    Organizers implemented a three-tier classification system grouping athletes by experience level rather than gender. Class A featured novice archers engaging targets at 10, 15, and 20 meters. Intermediate participants in Class B confronted distances of 20, 30, and 40 meters, while advanced Class C competitors mastered the most challenging ranges of 40, 50, and 60 meters.

    Following intense competition, the championship podium featured Judah Cambridge securing top honors in Class A, followed by Matthew Joachim and Jordan Seaman. Class B recognition went to Adrian Parris (first), Nicholas Deane (second), and Arush Ballapalli (third). The advanced Class C category saw Richol Richards claim victory ahead of Rayon Clarke and Marese Burgin.

    Association representatives reported overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants, indicating strong potential for a second 900 shoot event later this year. Meanwhile, Vincentian archers maintain rigorous training schedules in preparation for international competitions, with the national ranking tournament scheduled for late April representing the next competitive opportunity.

    The association continues welcoming new participants to the sport, encouraging interested individuals to contact them via email at archery.svg@gmail.com for information on beginner programs and training opportunities.

  • Column: Compleet slagveld

    Column: Compleet slagveld

    A championship final between Brazilian football clubs Cruzeiro and Atlético Mineiro deteriorated into unprecedented violence, resulting in a world record 23 red cards being issued during what became one of the most disgraceful incidents in football history.

    The match, initially anticipated as a showcase of elite athletic competition, turned violent following a contentious collision between an attacker and goalkeeper. The goalkeeper, reacting to what he perceived as reckless play, physically threw the opposing player to the ground, triggering a mass brawl that engulfed nearly all players on the field.

    What ensued resembled a street fight more than professional sports, with players exchanging punches and kicks that left several participants injured. The referee struggled to maintain control as players demonstrated complete disregard for authority and sportsmanship, violating FIFA’s long-standing principles of respect and fair play.

    This incident shattered the previous record for red cards in a single match, which had stood for over seventy years when 22 players were ejected during another Brazilian fixture. The spectacle stood in stark contrast to football’s celebrated role as a unifying force in Brazilian culture, instead revealing the dangerous consequences when rivalry overshadows sportsmanship.

    Football analysts and officials are calling for severe sanctions beyond financial penalties, including extended suspensions for participants. The incident has sparked urgent discussions about implementing stricter measures to prevent such outbreaks of violence and preserve the integrity of the sport.

  • U-17 Qualifier 2026 World Cup Morocco : «D-5» Our Grenadières in training

    U-17 Qualifier 2026 World Cup Morocco : «D-5» Our Grenadières in training

    The Haitian Under-17 women’s national football team has commenced its final preparatory phase in Costa Rica ahead of the crucial CONCACAF qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco. An advance contingent of the squad has established its training base in San José under the guidance of French coach Frenoy Baptiste.

    Following their arrival, players immediately initiated acclimatization procedures with recovery sessions and light physical exercises to counteract travel fatigue. The team is scheduled to conduct its first comprehensive training session at a private sports facility adjacent to their accommodation complex.

    The Grenadières will utilize a six-day intensive training window to enhance tactical coordination, team chemistry, and strategic execution. As part of their final preparations, Haiti has arranged a preparatory friendly match against Costa Rica’s U-17 team on March 14, 2026, providing crucial match practice before competitive fixtures commence.

    Haiti’s qualification campaign begins March 17 against Puerto Rico, followed by encounters with the United States (March 19) and Bermuda (March 22). The team occupies Group B alongside these nations in the twelve-team final qualifying round that includes Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, and other CONCACAF representatives.

    The Haitian squad aims to achieve historic qualification for Morocco 2026, building upon previous successes including their dominant 3-0 victory against Guatemala that secured their place in these final qualifiers.

  • The Transformative Power of Sports

    The Transformative Power of Sports

    BELIZE CITY – This past weekend, the La Ruta Maya canoe race demonstrated that sports transcend mere competition, evolving into a powerful catalyst for national unity, economic vitality, and social transformation. The event, which captivated the nation, showcased how athletic endeavors create ripple effects far beyond the riverbanks where spectators gathered.

    The transformative power of sports manifests through multiple dimensions. For young athletes like University of Belize paddler Keane Gillett, sports provide pathways to education through scholarship opportunities that might otherwise remain inaccessible. “They’ve provided me with a scholarship for being able to do something I love,” Gillett stated, emphasizing the challenge of balancing training with academic commitments.

    Minister of State Devin Daly attributes his personal and professional development to athletic participation. “I wouldn’t be the politician, I wouldn’t be the man, I wouldn’t be the father without sports,” Daly reflected. “It has taught me ways to resolve conflict positively, deal with stress, network, and show camaraderie.”

    In communities facing significant challenges, sports programs serve as stabilizing forces. Leaton St. Clair, manager of Port Loyola FC, documented a disturbing correlation between program suspensions during COVID-19 and rising violence in Belize City’s Southside. “When that stopped the program from functioning, the killing went up,” St. Clair revealed. “Some youths backslid without positive outlets.”

    The economic impact extends throughout local economies. John Marsden, owner of the Defenders basketball team, detailed how sporting events stimulate small businesses: “Barbers, hair techs, nail techs, clothes vendors, taxis, food vendors – numerous small businesses benefit from the spill-off effect.”

    Globally, sports maintain their role as diplomatic instruments. Allan Sharp, President of the Belize Olympic Committee, emphasized their unifying capacity: “There is nothing like sports that brings people who are different to be united – whether countries with political differences, gender, races, or religion.”

    From creating economic opportunities to fostering discipline and preventing violence, sports continue proving their multifaceted value to Belizean society with every competition.