分类： sports

The vibrant energy of Jamaican horse racing is poised to return as Caymanas Park prepares to reopen on November 15, following a necessary hiatus due to Hurricane Melissa’s devastating impact on October 28. Solomon Sharpe, executive chairman of Supreme Ventures Racing and Entertainment Limited (SVREL), emphasized the critical restoration efforts underway to ensure the venue’s readiness. The hurricane caused significant damage to stables, electrical infrastructure, and other facilities, prompting a temporary suspension of races since October 25. Despite these challenges, Sharpe expressed optimism, noting that the racetrack itself remains in pristine condition, with over 300 horses already exercising on it. The restoration process includes repairing stables, reconnecting power, and clearing debris, with the property currently at 60% operational capacity. Off Track Betting (OTB) establishments, crucial for the sport’s ecosystem, are also being prioritized, though only half are operational. The revised November schedule promises thrilling events, including the United Racehorse Trainers’ Association of Jamaica race on November 15, the Jamaica Cup on November 16, and the Jockeys’ Agent Race day on November 29. Trainers like Patrick Smellie and Roy Matthews acknowledged the logistical hurdles but supported SVREL’s decision to resume racing on November 15, allowing ample time for preparation. The return of live racing not only revitalizes the sport but also supports the livelihoods of thousands in the surrounding communities.

The Jamaica Draughts Association (JDA) has once again proven its dedication to fostering strategic thinking and sportsmanship, making a significant impact at the recent Sports Development Foundation (SDF) Heritage Day Sports/Games Competition. The event served as a platform for the JDA to highlight its mission of developing well-rounded athletes and promoting sports development across Jamaica. O’Neil Gordon, a Class 2 Draughts player, stole the spotlight with a stellar performance, clinching a gold medal in darts through his exceptional precision and focus. Gordon’s triumph not only underscores his individual talent but also emphasizes the cognitive advantages of playing draughts, such as enhanced strategic thinking, problem-solving, and analytical abilities. These skills are not confined to the game but extend to real-life scenarios, empowering individuals to assess challenges, weigh options, and make informed decisions. The JDA’s emphasis on cognitive development through draughts benefits both its members and the broader community. The association was well-represented at the event, with key figures including President Jermaine Delattibudiere, Treasurer Oraine Thompson, and Assistant General Secretary Ronald Taylor in attendance. Notable members such as International Grandmaster Wayne “Shines” Reid and Federation Master Rohan Thomas, also known as FabKid, added to the association’s strong presence. Looking ahead, the JDA is gearing up for its National Championships, scheduled for November 30, 2025, at the Port of Call Hotel in Black River, St Elizabeth. The event promises to be a thrilling display of talent, with top players like Shines, the reigning APCA Champion, and Sergeant Jason Wisdom, a consistent high performer, set to compete for the coveted title. The championships are expected to be fiercely competitive, showcasing the best of Jamaica’s draughts talent.

PARIS, France – The global sports community mourns the loss of Charles Coste, the world’s oldest former Olympic champion, who passed away at the age of 101. The announcement was made by French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari on Sunday. Coste, a celebrated track cyclist, clinched gold at the 1948 London Olympics and was honored as a torchbearer for the upcoming 2024 Paris Games. Ferrari expressed her grief, stating, ‘It was with great sorrow that I learned of the death of Charles Coste, Olympic champion in London. At 101 years old, he leaves a monumental sporting legacy.’ Coste’s journey in cycling was interrupted by World War II, but he returned to the sport post-war, securing a French national title in 1947 and Olympic gold in 1948. His victory in the team pursuit event saw France triumph over Britain in the semi-final and Italy in the final. Born on February 8, 1924, Coste became the oldest living Olympic champion following the passing of Hungarian gymnast Agnes Keleti in January. His death marks the end of an era in Olympic history.

Sonia Haboub, a Dubai-based distance runner, professor, and CEO of The Globe Runner Scholar, has been appointed as the Global Ambassador for the 25th Reggae Marathon, set to take place this December in Kingston, Jamaica. Known internationally as The Globe Runner Scholar, Haboub’s life story is a testament to endurance, education, and empowerment across continents. Born and raised in Italy to a multicultural family, Haboub has traveled to over 100 countries, speaks eight languages, and has built a career that bridges academia, sport, and storytelling. Her journey began with a desire to break away from conventional paths, leading her from luxury brand management in London to academia in China, France, and the UAE. A personal health scare, when she was diagnosed with early-stage cancer, deepened her philosophy of living a fulfilling life. Following her recovery, Haboub embarked on a seven-month solo journey that reshaped her life, finding healing in movement. What began as light jogging evolved into competitive running and triathlons. Today, Haboub combines her philosophy of movement and meaning in everything she does, from teaching intercultural marketing to building community initiatives that empower young runners in Kenya to pursue both sport and education. Her company reinvests most of its proceeds into a non-profit that provides academic support for youth athletes. As the Reggae Marathon’s 2025 global ambassador, Haboub’s mission aligns perfectly with the event’s evolving story, which promises to highlight both elite performance and cultural connection. Runners from over 25 countries will experience a World Athletics-certified course that winds past landmarks such as the National Gallery, Rae Town, and Water Lane’s Artwalk murals, finishing along Kingston Harbour. For Haboub, the Reggae Marathon represents far more than a race; it’s a celebration of culture, music, and community. In the months leading up to the event, Haboub will document her training and share her experiences discovering Kingston’s running routes and cultural hotspots, hoping to inspire women and youth across the Caribbean and beyond to see running not just as fitness but as a bridge between people, places, and purpose.