Saint Lucia, the Caribbean island nation, has recently emerged as a favored destination for world-class athletes following the 2024 Olympics. The island, already renowned as the home of 100m Olympic champion Julien Alfred, has welcomed a series of high-profile visitors, including triple World champion Melissa Jefferson-Wooden. Alfred’s role as a Tourism Ambassador for her homeland appears to be yielding significant benefits, drawing attention to the island’s allure. Jefferson-Wooden, who married her college sweetheart Rolan Wooden II in March 2025, chose Saint Lucia for her belated honeymoon after a demanding athletics season. The 24-year-old from South Carolina, fresh from her gold medal triumphs in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m events in Tokyo, Japan, celebrated her nuptials at the luxurious Jade Mountain resort. She expressed her joy on social media, stating, ‘I love being Mrs. Wooden!!! Saint Lucia owes us nothing.’ Joining her at Jade Mountain in October was British sprinter Amy Hunt, a World Championships 200m silver medalist and Olympic 4x100m silver medalist. The 21-year-old from Nottinghamshire shared her enchantment with the island, posting, ‘Saint Lucia, I’ve only been here for 24 hours, but I’m in love.’ Meanwhile, Julien Alfred has been showcasing her homeland to former University of Texas teammate Rhashidat Adeleke, an Irish Olympian, and social media influencer Tiara Williams. The trio was spotted on a catamaran in Soufrière, enjoying the island’s vibrant culture. Adeleke, Williams, and American long sprinter Vernon Norwood also attended a reception for Alfred at BodyHoliday. Norwood, a seven-time global relay gold medalist with Team USA, added to the star-studded guest list. Saint Lucia’s appeal was further cemented in 2024 when Keisha Caine Bishop, mother of Olympic gold medalist and quadruple World Champion Noah Lyles, visited the island after meeting Alfred at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
分类： sports
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Five Dominican players named finalists for 2025 American League Silver Slugger Award
Five standout Dominican players—Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Junior Caminero, Julio Rodríguez, Jorge Polanco, and Jéremy Peña—have been named finalists for the prestigious 2025 American League Silver Slugger Award. This accolade recognizes the most exceptional offensive performers at each position in Major League Baseball (MLB), celebrating their remarkable contributions to the game. Junior Caminero, the Tampa Bay Rays’ third baseman, emerged as a dominant force this season, smashing 45 home runs, driving in 110 RBIs, and maintaining a .264 batting average, solidifying his status as one of the league’s most formidable hitters. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., the Toronto Blue Jays’ first baseman, delivered consistent offensive prowess with 23 home runs, 84 RBIs, and a .292 average. Julio Rodríguez, the Seattle Mariners’ center fielder, achieved a rare 30-30 season, combining 30 home runs with 30 stolen bases, alongside 95 RBIs and a .267 average. His teammate, second baseman Jorge Polanco, bolstered Seattle’s infield with 26 home runs, 78 RBIs, and a .265 average. Meanwhile, Houston Astros shortstop Jéremy Peña showcased maturity and consistency, finishing the season with a .304 batting average, 17 home runs, and 62 RBIs. The Silver Slugger Award winners, determined by votes from MLB managers and coaches, will be unveiled in the coming weeks, spotlighting the league’s elite hitters.
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The ladies changing the game in football
Two Saint Lucian women, Examin Philbert and Dr. Natasha Innocent-Thomas, are making history as trailblazers in football administration. Their recent appointments to FIFA Standing Committees, alongside Lyndon Cooper, President of the Saint Lucia Football Association (SLFA), mark a significant milestone for gender representation in global sports governance. The trio will serve from 2025 to 2029, following the FIFA Council Meeting in Zurich, Switzerland. While all three appointments are noteworthy, the inclusion of women in these decision-making roles is particularly groundbreaking, given the historical underrepresentation of women in sports administration. This development is expected to inspire greater professional growth in Saint Lucian sports and beyond. Philbert, currently the women’s football coordinator for the SLFA and president of the Vieux Fort Football League, has been appointed to the FIFA Women’s National Team Competition Standing Committee. This body plays a pivotal role in shaping women’s football globally, overseeing events like the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Dr. Innocent-Thomas, a respected medical professional with extensive experience in sports medicine, will serve on the FIFA Medical Committee. Her role is critical as the committee addresses health, medical, and player welfare issues in an era of increasing global football demands. Both women emphasized the transformative potential of their appointments. Philbert highlighted the opportunity to strengthen Saint Lucia’s global football network and enhance women’s football programs. Innocent-Thomas underscored the importance of improved health management for athletes, focusing on injury prevention and rehabilitation. Their achievements serve as a powerful inspiration for young women and girls, demonstrating that careers in football extend beyond the pitch. Philbert and Innocent-Thomas encourage aspiring professionals to pursue diverse opportunities in the sport, from media and marketing to governance and medicine. Their journey to FIFA leadership exemplifies the rewards of perseverance, preparation, and passion for the beautiful game.
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Destang named Florida swimmer of the year
Antoine Destang, Saint Lucia’s most accomplished young swimmer, continues to make waves both nationally and internationally. As he gears up to represent his country at the upcoming Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Championships in St Vincent and the Grenadines, Destang is still basking in the glory of his high school achievements. Now a freshman student-athlete at the University of Michigan, he has already begun to carve out a promising collegiate career.
Destang’s recent accolades include being named Florida Swimmer of the Year for his age group at the 2025 Florida Swimming Annual Awards Banquet. This honor places him alongside swimming legends like Katy Ledecky, the most decorated female swimmer in history. His senior year at The Bolles School was marked by multiple top-ten national performances in the 15-17 age group, showcasing his ability to excel under pressure.
Earlier this year, Destang shone at the CARIFTA Aquatics Championships in Trinidad and Tobago, securing a bronze medal in the freestyle and a silver in the 100m butterfly. His performance in the latter event was the third fastest in CARIFTA history. Competing for the Bolles Sharks, he amassed five medals and eight top-ten finishes in the first quarter of 2025, including a silver in the 100-yard backstroke at the Florida Senior Championship.
Destang’s versatility was further highlighted at the French Elite Championships and the 22nd World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, where he competed against seasoned professionals. At Michigan, he has already achieved a top-ten finish in the 100-yard butterfly, signaling his potential to become a world-class swimmer.
As the OECS Championships approach, Destang aims to help Saint Lucia improve on their previous fourth-place finish. Despite being overlooked for Saint Lucia’s Junior Sportsman of the Year award in 2023 and 2024, his consistent performances and record-breaking swims have cemented his status as one of the Caribbean’s brightest swimming talents.
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NLCL Nation’s Cup to kick-off Xmas holidays
Trinidad and Tobago’s premier youth football academies and clubs are preparing to showcase their talent against Caribbean rivals at the NLCL Nation’s Cup – International Holiday Fun Festival. Scheduled to take place from December 19 to 21 at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium in Marabella, this event promises to be a thrilling showcase of young footballing talent. The tournament will feature competitions in four age categories: Under 9, Under 11, Under 13, and Under 15, with participants vying for cash prizes, trophies, and medals. Organized by the Next Level Foundation, the event builds on the success of previous NLCL Community Cup tournaments. Bermudez Biscuit Company’s Dixiee returns as an official sponsor, alongside key supporters such as Next Level Consulting Ltd, Agostini Ltd, Point Lisas Nitrogen Ltd, and First Citizens. Notable youth clubs like City FC, Cox Coaching School, Creek Sports & Cultural Club, Dunstan Williams Soccer Academy, and Union Hall United have already confirmed their participation. Beyond the matches, attendees can enjoy live performances, DJs, a Family Fun Zone, and complimentary samples from vendors. Brian K Jordan, foundation chairman, emphasized the event’s focus on community engagement and youth development. Germaine Jordan, tournament chairperson, encouraged additional sponsors and teams to join, highlighting the importance of investing in young footballers. For further details, interested parties can visit NLCL Community Cup’s social media pages or contact the organizers directly.
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Ramkissoon elected TTCB treasurer, John remains 2nd VP
Stephen Ramkissoon has successfully retained his position as treasurer of the Trinidad and Tobago Cricket Board (TTCB) following the organization’s annual general meeting (AGM) and elections held on October 25 at the National Cricket Centre in Balmain, Couva. Ramkissoon, who assumed the role earlier this year after his predecessor Kiswah Chaitoo was ousted in a motion of no confidence, will now serve a full four-year term. He secured the position with a decisive 29-12 victory over Central Sports owner Richard Ramkissoon, who is no relation. The elections also saw Kerwin John, head of the Tobago Cricket Association, retain his role as second vice-president after defeating Rajendra Mangalie 27-13. Additionally, Avinash Suruj of the Central Zone was elected third vice-president, outpacing veteran administrator Parasram Singh 29-12. Five new members—Ravi Teeluck, Anand Rampersad, Ann Brown John, Frank Simmons, and Mitra Ragoonanan—joined the executive with membership status, while Sharaz Mohammed of the Secondary Schools Cricket League fell short with only ten votes. Azim Bassarath, who has led the TTCB since 2009, retained his presidency uncontested. However, this marks his final term due to recently amended term limits. Altaf Baksh and Henry Chase were also elected unopposed as first vice-president and general secretary, respectively. Ammar Samaroo, secretary of the TTCB elections committee, confirmed the process was seamless, stating, ‘Everything went extremely smoothly and according to plan.’
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Cordner to lead Trinidad and Tobago for Reggae Girlz friendly
The Trinidad and Tobago (TT) senior women’s football team is gearing up for a pivotal friendly match against Jamaica on October 28 at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva. Veteran forward Kennya “Yaya” Cordner will once again lead the team as captain, a decision confirmed by newly appointed co-head coach Damian Briggs during a pre-match press conference on October 27. Cordner’s return to the national team brings much-needed leadership and experience to a squad that has been largely inactive over the past year. Briggs emphasized her role as a mentor and communicator, both on and off the pitch, highlighting her ability to motivate the team during challenging times. The match against Jamaica serves as a critical benchmark for the TT women’s team as they prepare for the upcoming Concacaf Women’s World Cup qualifiers, set to begin on November 30 against Barbados. Briggs, who shares coaching responsibilities with former Soca Warriors midfielder Densill Theobald, expressed optimism about the team’s progress despite a short preparation window of just three weeks. The coaching duo has focused on building team chemistry, structure, and belief, aiming to deliver competitive and attractive football. With only three foreign-based players in the current squad, the match will also provide an opportunity to evaluate local talent. Briggs acknowledged the challenges posed by Jamaica’s match-ready squad but remains confident in the team’s work ethic and determination. The friendly marks the start of a new chapter for TT women’s football, with Briggs and Theobald committed to helping the team achieve its goals. Kick-off is scheduled for 8 pm, with gates opening at 6 pm and admission priced at $60.
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SERIOUS BUSINESS!
The Jamaica senior women’s football team, the Reggae Girlz, are set to face Caribbean rivals Trinidad and Tobago in an international friendly match at the Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva on Tuesday. The game, scheduled for 7:00 pm (Jamaica time), serves as a critical preparatory fixture for both teams ahead of the upcoming Concacaf Women’s World Cup qualifiers in November. Head Coach Hubert Busby expressed confidence in his team’s ability to deliver a strong performance, emphasizing the match’s importance in refining tactical strategies. Despite missing key players due to injuries, including goalkeeper Rebecca Spencer and midfielder Atlanta Primus, Busby remains optimistic about the squad’s depth. Young talents like Mia Mitchell and Lola Nesbeth have been called up to fill the void, with veteran players expected to guide them. Busby highlighted the team’s focus on improving possession and transition play during training sessions. The match is anticipated to be a fiercely contested encounter, with both teams aiming to build momentum ahead of the qualifiers. Jamaica, coming off a historic run to the last 16 in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, will look to continue their upward trajectory. Trinidad and Tobago, under interim coaches Damian Briggs and Densill Theobald, are determined to challenge their regional rivals and boost their confidence. The Reggae Girlz are placed in Group B for the qualifiers, alongside Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Guyana, and Nicaragua, while Trinidad and Tobago will compete in Group F against Barbados, El Salvador, and Honduras. This friendly marks Jamaica’s final preparation match before the qualifiers, with both teams eager to make a statement on the pitch.
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Star sprinter Ka Ying Rising wins world’s richest turf race, The Everest
In a spectacular display of speed and skill, Hong Kong’s superstar sprinter Ka Ying Rising, ridden by renowned jockey Zac Purton, clinched his 14th consecutive victory at The Everest 2025, the world’s richest turf race, held at Sydney’s Royal Randwick. The David Hayes-trained five-year-old surged ahead in the final 100 meters, securing a decisive win by a length and claiming the staggering prize of Aus$7.0 million (US$4.7 million) for a race that lasted just over a minute. Tempted, with Craig Williams aboard, finished second, followed by Jimmysstar, ridden by Ethan Brown. Ka Ying Rising, now hailed as the planet’s premier sprinter, boasts an impressive record of 15 wins in 17 starts, including 14 consecutive victories, most of which were under Purton’s expert guidance. The gelding’s only two losses were second-place finishes. Purton, who flew in from Hong Kong to pilot Ka Ying Rising from barrier seven, noted the horse’s initial restlessness in the gate but praised his performance: ‘He still began well and had a beautiful run in the race.’ Jimmysstar led early, but Ka Ying Rising’s relentless pace in the final stretch sealed the victory. Purton, 42 and nearing the end of his illustrious career, expressed deep emotion: ‘It makes you a little bit emotional. I’ve been really lucky to have this horse come along now, and it’s a great way to close my career.’ The Everest, a 1,200-meter race featuring 12 elite sprinters under weight-for-age conditions, is the crown jewel of the Sydney Spring Carnival, offering a total prize pool of Aus$20 million (US$13 million). It is the second-richest thoroughbred race globally, trailing only the Saudi Cup. Even the last-placed horse, Magic Time, earned Aus$700,000. Trainer David Hayes described the win as a ‘crowning moment’ in his career, while owner Leung Shek-kong celebrated the triumph. The race’s innovative format, inspired by the Pegasus World Cup, involves buyers purchasing Aus$700,000 slots and partnering with owners and jockeys to secure top horses, with prize money shared among participants.
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Trinidad and Tobago women’s coach: Asha James ‘not left out forever’
The Trinidad and Tobago women’s football team remains united and fully focused as they prepare for their October 28 international friendly against Jamaica, despite the recent exclusion of playmaker Asha James. James was omitted from the 23-member squad announced on October 24, following a critical Facebook post she directed at team captain Kennya “Yaya” Cordner on October 20. This incident occurred just one day after former head coach Angus Eve resigned after only 20 days in charge.
Newly appointed co-head coach Damian Briggs addressed the situation during a pre-match interview at Ato Boldon Stadium in Couva on October 27. Briggs clarified that James’ omission was not disciplinary but had been handled internally before his appointment. He emphasized that the decision was not permanent and that James was informed of the outcome, with both parties reaching an amicable resolution. Briggs confirmed that James is expected to rejoin the team after the Jamaica match.
Briggs, who replaced Eve, stated that the squad has moved past the distractions and is focused on performing well against their regional rivals. He highlighted the team’s unity and shared goals, saying, “We’ve bonded and gelled together. Everyone’s singing from the same hymn sheet.” The team aims to create a legacy in women’s football for Trinidad and Tobago, with the Jamaica game serving as a platform to showcase their progress and unity.
Briggs also noted that the technical staff has implemented measures to minimize distractions and ensure the team remains focused on their upcoming challenges, including the Concacaf Women’s qualifiers starting on November 30. The Jamaica friendly marks Briggs’s first assignment as head coach of the Women Warriors.