The Belize Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships 2025 witnessed an electrifying showcase of discipline, dedication, and determination as Randy Hyde and Kareem Middleton emerged victorious in their respective categories. Hyde, securing his second consecutive title as Mr. Belize, and Middleton, crowned Mr. Physique, demonstrated unparalleled commitment to their craft, earning the admiration of the audience and judges alike. The event, held on November 24, 2025, was a testament to the rigorous training regimens and sacrifices these athletes endure to achieve peak physical condition. Hyde, who attributes his success to a strict diet, early bedtime, and expert coaching, emphasized the importance of consistency and knowledge in bodybuilding. Middleton, on the other hand, highlighted his journey of winning three consecutive competitions, expressing his gratitude and ambition to inspire others through his achievements. Both champions have not only etched their names in Belizean bodybuilding history but also set a benchmark for aspiring athletes in the region.
分类： sports
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2027 World Cup Qualifiers Brazil : List of senior Grenadières convened (+Schedule)
The Haitian women’s national football team, known as the Grenadières, is set to begin their journey toward qualifying for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. After their participation in the 2023 World Cup held in Australia and New Zealand, the team is determined to secure another spot on the global stage. Their first qualifying match will take place on November 30, 2025, in Belize, where they will face the Belize Jaguars in the first round of the CONCACAF qualifiers. The Grenadières have been rigorously preparing for this moment since February 2025, engaging in six friendly matches across multiple continents to hone their skills and maintain peak fitness. Many of the players are seasoned starters for their respective national teams, ensuring a high level of performance. The team’s training camp in Belize is already underway, with the coaching staff fine-tuning strategies for the upcoming match. French coach Malou Quignette has announced the 23-player squad, which includes the return of key players Sibog, Claire Constant, and Roxanne Vilain. The Grenadières’ Group D schedule includes matches against Suriname, Anguilla, and the Dominican Republic in 2026. With a mix of experienced players and rising stars, Haiti’s Grenadières are poised to make a strong push for World Cup qualification.
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“A Small Step Back for a Major Comeback”
Belizean boxing sensation Amir “King Mir” Rudon faced a devastating setback on Saturday night, November 24, 2025, during his title fight against Mexican champion Carlos Elvira. The sold-out event at Swift Hall saw Rudon, who was leading on the scorecards, suffer a knockout in the eighth round after a powerful strike in the seventh round altered the course of the match. This marked Rudon’s first career loss since he began boxing at the age of twelve. Despite the defeat, Rudon remained optimistic, stating, “It’s my first loss in my boxing career. I don’t know what losing feels like inside the ring, but I do now, and it changes nothing.” He was taken out on a stretcher as a precaution but signaled a thumbs-up to reassure fans. Rudon emphasized his commitment to the sport, saying, “This is just a small hurdle, a small step back for a major comeback.” Meanwhile, 14-year-old Bryan Garbutt, another rising star from Belize, celebrated a victory against his Mexican opponent, showcasing the nation’s growing talent in boxing. The event highlighted the increasing recognition of boxing in Belize, with Rudon expressing gratitude to his supporters and vowing to return stronger.
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Saint Lucia Flotilla Waves ARC Off in Style
On Sunday, November 23, the 40th edition of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) commenced with a grand flotilla departing from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain, bound for Rodney Bay Marina in Saint Lucia. This annual event, renowned for fostering seamanship, cultural exchange, and international camaraderie, saw over 100 boats embark on the 2,700-nautical-mile journey. The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA), in collaboration with Events Saint Lucia and the World Cruising Club (WCC), orchestrated a synchronized celebration in Castries, symbolizing the transatlantic start of the rally. Peta Cozier of the WCC, who has been involved with the ARC for a decade, expressed her excitement, highlighting the meticulous preparation and the diverse participation of 148 boats across three categories: cruising, multi-hull, and IRC racing. The latter category relies solely on ocean winds, showcasing traditional sailing skills. This year’s rally features 900 participants aged 6 to 80, hailing from eight countries. Cozier emphasized the event’s role in building lifelong friendships and fostering global networks. Louis Lewis, CEO of the SLTA, underscored the ARC’s significance as the flagship event for the yachting sector, expressing enthusiasm for the return of the flotilla to its former scale. He outlined an engaging itinerary for participants upon their arrival in Saint Lucia, designed to showcase the island’s culture and hospitality. Before the flotilla’s departure, Dexter Percil, SLTA’s Director of Global Marketing, acknowledged the support of sponsors and media partners, including IGY Rodney Bay Marina, Heineken Saint Lucia, and Digicel. The journey is expected to take 14 to 21 days, with the first boats anticipated to arrive in Saint Lucia by early December.
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US denies visas to Cuban athletes to compete in Olympic qualifiers
The international campaign ‘Let Them Play’ has emerged as a powerful response to the challenges faced by Cuban athletes in participating in global competitions, including those leading up to the upcoming summer event in Los Angeles. Entire delegations have been barred from attending crucial technical meetings and competitions, hindering their ability to represent their nation on the global stage. Yasser Ibarra, First Secretary of the Cuban Embassy in Washington, highlighted the profound impact of these restrictions, stating that denying athletes the right to compete not only disrupts their careers but also undermines collective dreams and national pride. He emphasized that these obstacles are part of a broader policy of pressure and hostility against Cuba, extending even into the realm of sports. During a virtual meeting attended by activists from the United States, Africa, Latin America, Europe, and Canada, Ibarra stressed the significance of the campaign, describing it as a fundamental call for justice rather than a mere slogan. The Hands Off Cuba Committee in Los Angeles, spearheading the initiative, is advocating for messages to be sent to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and seeking support from public figures, celebrities, and sports personalities. The campaign has already garnered backing from the National Network on Cuba, a coalition of over 60 organizations in the United States, underscoring its growing momentum and global resonance.
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Tigray Express shines — A rare claiming gem
In a stunning display of consistency and skill, Tigray Express, a six-year-old bay horse, has once again proven his mettle on the racetrack. Trained by Phillip Elliott and ridden by Raddesh Roman, the chestnut colt secured his eighth win in nine starts, a remarkable feat for a claiming horse. This victory, achieved on Saturday, November 22, 2025, also marked his fifth consecutive win, further cementing his reputation as a top contender in the racing world. The race, an Optional Claiming contest with a purse ranging from $500,000 to $400,000, featured native-bred six-year-olds and older horses, as well as native-bred five-year-olds, competing over 6½ furlongs (1,300 meters). Tigray Express, sired by Traditional out of Kiri, broke sharply from the gate, took an early lead, and maintained a strong gallop throughout the race. He surged ahead in the straight, finishing a commanding 9½ lengths ahead of the competition with a time of 1:24.0 (24.2 x 49.1 x 1:16.2). High Diplomacy, ridden by Robert Halledeen, finished second, while Wilson, with Oshadane Robinson in the saddle, came in third. Following the race, it was announced that Tigray Express had been claimed for $500,000 by trainer Dalton Sirjue on behalf of owner Anthony Chin. The horse attracted significant interest, with 32 claims submitted. This latest victory brings Tigray Express’s career record to 14 wins from 54 starts, with total stakes earnings nearing $8 million. His consistent performance under various trainers and riders has made him one of the most coveted horses in the industry. His only loss this season occurred on May 23, when he finished fourth in a $1-million claiming race, trailing Burling Valor by 7 lengths over 7 furlongs. Trainer Phillip Elliott and other connections celebrated with Tigray Express and jockey Raddesh Roman in the winners’ enclosure after the race.
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Greenwood ‘paid dearly’ for sex assault allegations, says De Zerbi
Marseille’s head coach, Roberto De Zerbi, has expressed his support for Mason Greenwood as the forward prepares to face English opposition for the first time since allegations of sexual assault surfaced in 2022. Greenwood, who joined Marseille in July 2024 after a loan spell at Getafe, is set to start in the Champions League match against Newcastle on Tuesday. De Zerbi emphasized that Greenwood has ‘paid dearly’ for the accusations, which were dropped by prosecutors in February 2023, and has found a supportive environment in Marseille. ‘I regret what happened in his life because I know someone different from what’s being described, especially in England,’ De Zerbi stated. Greenwood has been in impressive form, scoring 11 goals this season and 33 overall for Marseille. De Zerbi praised his development, calling him a ‘complete player’ while urging the media to avoid excessive scrutiny. Despite his on-field success, Greenwood’s international future remains uncertain, with England manager Thomas Tuchel confirming he is not part of current plans. Teammate Angel Gomes, who played alongside Greenwood at Manchester United, noted their friendship but remained tight-lipped about Greenwood’s aspirations for an England recall. Marseille, with three points from four Champions League matches, face an uphill battle to qualify for the knockout stage, while Newcastle, sixth in the table, aim to continue their strong form.
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Starraura returns in style: 11-length romp wins $1.05-m Maiden Condition Race
In a spectacular display of speed and stamina, Starraura, the Jason DaCosta-trained chestnut filly, marked her return to racing with a commanding win in the $1.05-million Maiden Condition Race for native-bred three-year-old fillies on Saturday, November 22, 2025. After an eight-month hiatus, Starraura, sired by Bold Conquest and out of Little Wasp, left her competitors in the dust, securing an impressive 11-length victory over 5½ furlongs (1,100m). Ridden by jockey Robert “Hardball” Halledeen, she completed the race in a swift 1:10.0, with splits of 24.0, 49.0, and 1:02.3. Starting strong, Starraura initially settled into third place behind Money Mission (Javaniel Patterson) and Moonlight Song (Teneca Wolfe) as they approached the half-mile (800m) turn. However, she quickly caught up to Money Mission, taking the lead at the top of the straight and maintaining her dominance all the way to the finish line. Money Mission and BadBadTanesha (Richie Shakes) trailed behind, unable to challenge Starraura’s relentless pace. This victory not only highlights Starraura’s exceptional talent but also reaffirms Jason DaCosta’s prowess as a trainer and Robert Halledeen’s skill as a jockey.
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Red Force vs Volcanoes Super50 match abandoned due to rain
The 2025 CG United Super50 Cup faced yet another weather-induced setback as the highly anticipated match between Trinidad and Tobago Red Force and the Windward Islands Volcanoes was abandoned due to persistent rain. Scheduled to commence at 9 am on November 25 at the Sir Frank Worrell Memorial Ground in UWI, St Augustine, the game was called off just before 10 am due to a waterlogged outfield and unfavorable playing conditions. This marked the fourth consecutive match in the tournament to be disrupted by rain, leaving fans and players frustrated. The Red Force, coming off back-to-back victories against Jamaica Scorpions and Guyana Harpy Eagles, entered the match in second place with 20 points, trailing leaders Barbados Pride by seven points. The Windward Volcanoes, positioned third with 15 points, were unable to improve their standing due to the abandonment. The tournament, already reduced to six teams due to financial constraints, has seen its schedule further compressed. The round-robin stage will conclude on November 29 in Tarouba, where the top two teams will compete in the final. Meanwhile, other matches, including the clash between Guyana Harpy Eagles and Leeward Islands Hurricanes, were also delayed due to rain at the Queen’s Park Oval in St Clair. Weather permitting, the Red Force will face the Leeward Hurricanes on November 27 in their final preliminary round match.
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New Zealand’s Williamson returns for opening West Indies Test
In a significant development for New Zealand cricket, veteran batsman Kane Williamson has been named in the 14-man squad for the first Test against the West Indies in Christchurch. This marks Williamson’s return to the red-ball format, adding depth to the batting lineup and leadership group. The squad announcement, made on Monday, also highlighted the recall of pace bowler Blair Tickner, who last featured in a Test match in March 2023. Tickner’s inclusion comes on the back of his stellar performance in the recent ODI series against England, where he claimed eight wickets in two matches. Additionally, the promising seam duo of Jacob Duffy and Zak Foulkes retained their spots following impressive debuts. Foulkes, in particular, made headlines with a nine-wicket haul on his debut against Zimbabwe. Head Coach Rob Walter expressed his enthusiasm about Williamson’s return, emphasizing his on-field prowess and leadership qualities. The squad will be captained by Tom Latham, as Tim Southee continues to be managed through the early part of the home summer. Notably, the selection was made without several key bowlers, including Matt Fisher, Will O’Rourke, and Ben Sears, all sidelined due to injuries. This two-Test series against the West Indies marks New Zealand’s first step in the new 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle. The squads for both teams have been finalized, with New Zealand looking to leverage Williamson’s experience and Tickner’s recent form to secure a strong start to the series.