分类： sports

The untimely deaths of young athletes are always a profound tragedy, leaving a lasting impact on their families, friends, and communities. The recent passing of Ajani ‘Jimz’ Hippolyte, who drowned in a boating accident at Marisule Beach in early October, has sent shockwaves through Saint Lucia. Hippolyte, a former youth football international, was the second local player to die this year, following Sherman Augustin, who was fatally stabbed during Carnival celebrations in July. These losses are a stark reminder of the fragility of life, especially for those with such promising futures. Hippolyte’s death brings to mind other young athletes like Bradley Felix, Nick Elibox, and Dhanraj ‘Chaz’ Cepal, who tragically lost their lives in car accidents between 2018 and 2019. Felix, a national footballer and track athlete, Elibox, a cricket scholar, and Cepal, a talented batsman, were all vibrant personalities whose potential was cut short. Hippolyte’s journey in football began at a young age, excelling in various schools and clubs, and culminating in his pivotal role with La Clery, where he helped secure multiple titles. Known for his versatility and infectious personality, Hippolyte was on the verge of his senior national debut. His death is a devastating blow to his community, leaving a void that will be hard to fill. The loss of these young talents underscores the need for a safer environment for aspiring athletes, ensuring their dreams are not extinguished prematurely. Their memories, however, will continue to inspire those who knew them.

In a gripping conclusion to the Canada Premier League (CPL) season on October 18, Saint Lucian forward Caniggia Elva delivered a standout performance for Cavalry FC, helping the defending champions secure third place despite their lowest points tally in the league’s six-year history. Elva, named Player of the Match, played a pivotal role in a 2-2 draw against bottom-ranked Vancouver FC at Willoughby Community Park. The match saw Halifax Wanderers and York United both falter in their final games earlier that day. The encounter came alive in the final third, with Vancouver’s Tyler Crawford receiving a red card in the 60th minute. Niko Myroniuk put Cavalry ahead in the 78th minute, but Vancouver equalized shortly after. A well-crafted move in stoppage time saw Elva score his fourth goal of the season, only for Vancouver to level again through a penalty by David Norman Jr. Elva’s contributions, including three shots, five chances created, and two successful dribbles, earned him top honors. Reflecting on the result, Elva emphasized the importance of securing third place and the upcoming playoff clash at Spruce Meadows’ ATCO Field. Cavalry, as the third seed, will face either Halifax or York in the quarterfinals. Forge FC claimed the regular-season title, but Cavalry remains determined to defend their playoff crown, aiming to become the first team to achieve the double. Despite a challenging season with just 42 points, Elva expressed confidence in their playoff potential, stating, ‘We’re a completely different team in the playoffs.’

Despite another series loss, this time to India, the West Indies men’s cricket team demonstrated a commendable fighting spirit that earned praise from legendary cricketer Brian Lara. The second Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi concluded with a sweep for India, but not before the West Indies showcased moments of grit and determination, particularly in their final innings. Lara, previously critical of the team’s perceived lack of commitment, acknowledged their resilience and called for greater involvement of cricket legends in the team’s development. The series began with a crushing innings defeat in the first Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, leaving little optimism for the Windies. However, the second Test revealed promising signs, including a maiden century by opener John Campbell, who became the first West Indies opener in over two decades to score a Test hundred on Indian soil. Campbell’s 115-run innings, alongside Shai Hope’s century, highlighted the team’s potential. The lower order also showed notable resistance, with contributions from Khary Pierre, Jayden Seales, and Anderson Philip. Fans on social media lauded the team’s improved performance and fighting spirit. Lara, who traveled to India with Sir Vivian Richards and Sir Richie Richardson to seek sponsorship for regional cricket development, emphasized the importance of mentorship and guidance for the players. He suggested that Cricket West Indies should integrate legends into the team’s environment to inspire and support the players. Team captain Roston Chase expressed hope that the series would serve as a stepping stone for future Test matches. While the West Indies continue their journey to reclaim their former glory, the second Test offered a glimmer of hope for their fans.

For over three decades, Zepherinus Knockay Joseph, a native of Mon Repos, Saint Lucia, has been a stalwart in the world of distance running. Now, at 50, Joseph is set to embark on a new chapter in his illustrious athletic career, this time as a pioneer in youth sports development. The recent announcement of the Zepherinus Joseph Cross-Country Invitational marks a significant milestone in his journey, aiming to inspire the next generation of athletes in Saint Lucia.

A formidable delegation of six boxers and two coaches from Saint Lucia is gearing up to compete at the 1st Annual Open International Boxing Tournament in Guadeloupe, scheduled for October 25-26, 2025. The Saint Lucia Boxing Association (SLBA) has announced the eight-member team, which includes some of the nation’s most promising emerging and elite talents, ready to make their mark on the international stage. The event, which will host participants from across the Caribbean and Canada, offers a unique opportunity for Saint Lucia’s athletes to gain exposure, experience, and developmental growth. The delegation features boxers Kyghan Mortley, John Didier, Kyle Marcel, Danail Cooman, Nacham Alex, and Orlando Monrose, supported by National Head Coach Conrad Frederick and Cuban Specialist Coach Yunior Quintero-Perez. David Christopher, president of the SLBA, expressed optimism about the team’s preparedness, emphasizing that the tournament is a stepping stone for future competitions such as the Commonwealth Games and Olympic qualifiers. The team will depart Saint Lucia on October 21, following final training and fitness assessments. The SLBA also acknowledged the invaluable support of sponsors, including the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee Inc. and the French Embassy to the OECS, for facilitating this international endeavor.

The cycling community in Saint Lucia and beyond is mourning the tragic loss of Jean Louis, a revered figure in Caribbean cycling, who passed away on October 17 at the age of 66. Louis, a former champion cyclist, died in a tragic accident while riding his bicycle in Burlington, Ontario, Canada. He was struck by a vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. Louis’s legacy extends far beyond his competitive achievements, as he was widely celebrated for his mentorship and unwavering support for younger cyclists. Born in the Anse La Salopwe community of La Toc, Louis rose to prominence in the 1980s, winning numerous titles, including the inaugural Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Cycling Championships men’s title in 1987. His brother, Daniel Louis, who was named Saint Lucia’s Sportsman of the Year in 1985, credited Jean with introducing him to the sport. Jean Louis was known for his sportsmanship and dedication to fostering talent, often providing equipment and guidance to aspiring cyclists. Even after relocating to Canada, he remained deeply involved in the sport, participating in national championships as recently as 2023 and 2024 to support the next generation. Tributes poured in from cycling administrators, fans, and former athletes, including Saint Lucia Cycling Association president Cyril Mangal, who described Louis as a father figure and a pillar of the cycling community. Gregory Downie, a former cyclist, paid homage to Louis on Facebook, acknowledging the risks of road cycling and honoring his enduring legacy as a pioneer and champion. Louis’s contributions to Caribbean cycling will continue to inspire future generations.

The West Indies faced a crushing 74-run defeat against Bangladesh in the first One Day International (ODI) of their three-match series on Saturday, October 18, at Mirpur. This series holds immense significance for both teams as they vie for crucial points to secure a spot in the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa.