分类: sports

  • First Olympic downhill training cancelled due to heavy snow — organisers

    First Olympic downhill training cancelled due to heavy snow — organisers

    CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy – Olympic organizers announced the cancellation of the inaugural downhill skiing training session for the 2026 Winter Games on Wednesday, citing severe weather conditions impacting the Italian Dolomites. Persistent heavy snowfall and unfavorable forecasts prompted Milan-Cortina officials to scrap Thursday’s scheduled training run.

    The cancelled session was intended as the first of three preparatory trainings ahead of Sunday’s women’s alpine downhill race, which marks the opening event of the Olympic skiing competition. While Friday and Saturday sessions on Cortina’s Olimpia delle Tofane course remain tentatively scheduled, meteorological predictions indicate continued precipitation throughout the region.

    This weather-induced disruption presents particular challenges for elite athletes including American skier Lindsey Vonn, who requires at least one official training session to qualify for Sunday’s competition. Vonn’s participation ambitions follow her recent crash during the World Cup downhill in Crans-Montana, where she sustained a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament. Despite this significant injury, the champion skier maintains her determination to compete for Olympic medals in Cortina.

    Organizers continue monitoring conditions closely as they balance athlete safety with competition requirements. The situation highlights the inherent challenges of hosting winter sports events in alpine environments, where meteorological factors frequently influence scheduling and athletic preparation.

  • Struggling Cavalier SC host Mt Pleasant in rescheduled JPL game

    Struggling Cavalier SC host Mt Pleasant in rescheduled JPL game

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A highly anticipated Jamaica Premier League clash between reigning champions Cavalier SC and rising contenders Mount Pleasant FA is set for Wednesday at Stadium East, with kickoff scheduled for 4:00 pm. This rescheduled second-round fixture pits the last two Concacaf Caribbean Cup titleholders against each other, renewing a rivalry that has defined Jamaican football in recent seasons.

    Despite their storied history of meeting in the past three JPL finals, the two clubs are experiencing dramatically different fortunes this campaign. Cavalier SC finds itself in a pronounced slump, having suffered three consecutive defeats that dropped them to eighth position with 26 points. They currently sit level with Arnett Gardens, though with an inferior goal differential.

    In stark contrast, Mount Pleasant FA arrives pursuing their third straight victory. A win would propel them into third place, surpassing Portmore United on goal difference while maintaining three games in hand—a significant strategic advantage as the season progresses.

    The historical matchup between these clubs has consistently produced tightly contested encounters. Statistical analysis reveals that eight of their 14 previous meetings were decided by a single-goal margin, highlighting the competitive balance. Since the 2018-19 season, only three matches have seen either side score three goals in a game, underscoring the typically defensive nature of this fixture.

    The current season’s form guide reveals a dramatic divergence: Mount Pleasant has suffered merely two defeats throughout the campaign, while Cavalier has already endured nine losses—nearly matching their combined total of 10 defeats across the previous two seasons.

  • Cavalier SC extend losing slump after 1-0 loss to Mt Pleasant FA

    Cavalier SC extend losing slump after 1-0 loss to Mt Pleasant FA

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Mount Pleasant FA delivered a decisive blow to the struggling defending champions Cavalier SC with a narrow 1-0 victory in a rescheduled Jamaica Premier League clash at Stadium East on Wednesday. The match’s solitary moment of brilliance arrived in the first half when Gadail Irving expertly curled a free-kick from just outside the 18-yard box into the far corner, leaving goalkeeper Demelcio Fer with no chance. This result extends Cavalier’s alarming losing streak to four matches and marks their third consecutive 1-0 defeat, deepening a crisis for the former titleholders. The win holds significant implications for the league table, propelling Mount Pleasant FA into third place on goal difference, tied with Portmore United at 36 points, though the St Ann-based squad retains three critical games in hand. They now sit just two points adrift of second-placed Racing United. For Cavalier, this defeat represents a staggering tenth loss in just 20 outings this season—a total that equals their combined number of losses from the previous two campaigns. Stuck in eighth position with 26 points, they remain one point outside the playoff qualification zone, their hopes of defending the title in tatters. The match narrative was one of Mount Pleasant’s dominance, with their third consecutive win over Cavalier this season, though they were ultimately reliant on Irving’s moment of magic to secure all three points. League action continues Thursday with another rescheduled fixture, a St Catherine derby pitting Dunbeholden FC against bottom-placed Spanish Town Police.

  • Pinehill announced as Wellness Partner by Dominica Athletics Association

    Pinehill announced as Wellness Partner by Dominica Athletics Association

    In a significant move for Caribbean sports development, the Dominica Athletics Association (DAA) has forged a comprehensive wellness partnership with Pinehill for the upcoming 2026 athletic season. The collaboration, facilitated through Belfast Estate Ltd., establishes a groundbreaking framework for athlete support that extends far beyond conventional sponsorship arrangements.

    The partnership will see Pinehill actively contributing to multiple DAA initiatives throughout 2026, with particular emphasis on nutritional support, educational development, competition preparation, and overall athlete wellness. The alliance represents a shared commitment to empowering young athletes through holistic development programs that address both athletic performance and personal growth.

    A cornerstone initiative of this partnership is the Pinehill NEXTGEN Champions Workshop, an elite educational program specifically designed for Dominica’s most promising junior athletes. This intensive workshop will prepare emerging talents for premier international competitions including the CARIFTA Games, NACAC Under-18 and Under-23 Championships, World Junior Championships, and Youth Olympic Games.

    Additionally, Pinehill has secured naming rights for one of the DAA’s premier events, which will be known as the Pinehill National Junior Championships 2026. Scheduled for April 19, 2026, this competition will serve as a critical platform for identifying and nurturing track and field talent across the nation.

    DAA President Mr. Brendan Williams emphasized the transformative potential of this partnership: “We are delighted to welcome Pinehill as our Official Wellness Partner. This collaboration fundamentally enhances how we support athletes beyond mere competition, providing essential tools for success both on and off the track through comprehensive education and personal development programs.

    Mrs. Jasmine Hamilton, representing Pinehill, affirmed the company’s steadfast dedication to advancing sports in Dominica and prioritizing athlete welfare. She expressed strong optimism about the partnership’s potential to create lasting impact within the athletic community.

    The Dominica Athletics Association additionally acknowledged Dominica Brewery and Beverages Ltd. for their supportive role in this initiative, recognizing their shared vision for athletic advancement and youth development throughout the country.

  • NGFC, Monchy triumph again in Bay Bay Cup

    NGFC, Monchy triumph again in Bay Bay Cup

    The second matchday of the Kenson Casmir Bay Bay Cup commenced on February 1st at Francis Baba Lastic Grounds in Gros Islet, with New Generation FC and Monchy United FC both securing decisive victories to strengthen their positions at the top of their groups.

    New Generation FC, following their spectacular 9-0 opening triumph, encountered stiffer opposition from Gros Islet Youth Lions. Despite the challenge, the Babonneau-based squad secured a 2-0 win with early goals from Richelme Lionel in the 5th minute and Yanic Noel in the 15th.

    Solomon Alexander, coach of New Generation FC, commented on the team’s performance: ‘The players were highly motivated to implement our training strategies. While Gros Islet Youth demonstrated strong periods of play, our team ultimately prevailed.’ Alexander expressed optimism that the team’s current success would help revitalize football enthusiasm in the Babonneau community, noting their consistent representation as regional standard-bearers after finishing second to Monchy United in the preseason Soccerama.

    In simultaneous Group B action, Monchy United FC delivered an overwhelming performance against Police FC, routing them 8-0. Jahlil Evans dominated the first half with a hat-trick (27′, 34′, 42′), complemented by Troy Greenidge’s goal in the 40th minute. Both players added to their tally in the second half, while Raphael Joseph contributed a rapid brace in the 73rd and 76th minutes.

    With these results, New Generation FC maintains Group A leadership with maximum six points and an impressive +11 goal difference, while Gros Islet Youth Lions hold second place. The tournament continues with critical matches that will determine semifinal qualification, including GMC’s must-win encounter against New Generation FC following their upcoming Grande Riviere derby against Dominators this Wednesday.

  • Nestor paces UNT to vital victory

    Nestor paces UNT to vital victory

    In a remarkable display of athletic prowess, the University of North Texas women’s basketball squad secured a commanding 67-49 victory against Florida Atlantic University this past Saturday at the Super Pit. The game showcased an extraordinary performance by Megan Nestor, the nation’s premier rebounder, who overcame aggressive defensive tactics to further solidify her record-breaking season.

    Despite facing intentionally physical opposition that forced her to the bench within the opening three minutes due to foul trouble, the 6-foot-4 forward from Saint Lucia demonstrated exceptional resilience. Head coach Jason Burton’s initial strategy to center the offense around Nestor was immediately tested by FAU’s defensive approach, which specifically targeted the standout player through repeated physical challenges.

    “The physicality’s different from what I’m accustomed to,” noted Nestor, a former national netball athlete. “However, my strength allows me to withstand such pressure. My focus remains on maintaining efficiency and converting scoring opportunities.”

    The statistical outcome proved impressive as Nestor contributed 10 points alongside a game-high 24 rebounds, marking her 13th double-double of the season—the highest in collegiate women’s basketball. This performance represented her fourth 20-rebound game this year, a national achievement that surpasses all other players, none of whom have recorded more than two such games.

    Coach Burton praised his team’s response following their previous performance in San Antonio: “We demonstrated significant improvement through two exceptional practice sessions that directly translated into today’s victory.”

    Nestor’s current season averages of 12.6 points and 13.8 rebounds per game position her to potentially establish new program and conference records, with the rebounding average particularly standing as a potential historical benchmark. As of Sunday, she remains the only collegiate basketball player nationwide to have accumulated over 300 rebounds this season.

  • Ball Breakers Grind Out Thrilling 5–4 Win Over Sharp Shooters To Open Nppa 2026

    Ball Breakers Grind Out Thrilling 5–4 Win Over Sharp Shooters To Open Nppa 2026

    The 2026 NPPA Elrick “Pat” Beazer 8-Ball Team Tournament commenced with an electrifying showdown as Ball Breakers narrowly defeated Sharpshooters 5–4 in a match characterized by dramatic momentum shifts and exceptional individual performances. The season opener set a high bar for competitive intensity from the very first break. Sharpshooters’ Head Hunter initiated the campaign with a decisive 7-ball victory, though he conceded the subsequent rack before ultimately securing his team’s inaugural point against Ball Breakers’ Prince M. Sharpshooters extended their lead to 2–0 when Rock overcame an initial setback to claim two consecutive racks against Kelly. Ball Breakers’ Killer halted the slide with a methodical 2–0 sweep over Hazel, injecting renewed energy into the contest. The match then witnessed a highlight-reel moment as Jay executed a flawless opening rack, culminating in a spectacular massé shot on the 8-ball. However, Sharpshooters’ Shadi demonstrated remarkable resilience by capturing the next two frames, pushing the team advantage to 3–1. Dennis narrowed the gap for Ball Breakers with a steady 2–0 performance against Desmond. The captains’ duel saw Ball Breakers’ M3 claim the opening rack before Sharpshooters’ vice-captain Joel, dubbed the African Giant, delivered two commanding racks to bring his team to the brink of victory at 4–2. Facing elimination, Ball Breakers mounted a stunning comeback through Maurice’s gritty 2–1 triumph over Jarvis and Chopz’s composed 2–0 win against Patrick, leveling the score at 4–4. The outcome hinged on the final encounter between Blacka and Supa, where Blacka maintained his composure under immense pressure to secure the decisive point, clinching a hard-fought 5–4 victory for Ball Breakers.

  • Gill wins a thriller at CRMS

    Gill wins a thriller at CRMS

    In a breathtakingly close finish, Gill House successfully defended its title at the 2026 Carmen Rene Memorial School (CRMS) sports meet, edging out Lewis House by a single point with a final tally of 303 to 302. The electrifying competition, held on Friday, January 30th at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, showcased the emergence of a new generation of athletic talent from the San Souci school. Walcott House secured a strong third-place finish with 296 points, while Rene House trailed with 235 points.

    The meet was characterized by intensely competitive races across all age groups. In the Under-9 boys division, Aiden Berkeley of Walcott claimed victory in the 60m dash with a time of 10.2 seconds. The Under-11 boys witnessed Jmarney George of Rene achieving a double victory in both the 80m (12.1s) and 600m (2:09.7s), while Gill’s Jaylan Howell took gold in the 150m (23.4s).

    A fascinating rivalry unfolded in the Under-13 boys category where Jaden Jacob of Walcott triumphed in the 80m (11.2s) and Gill’s Dante Delice won the 150m (20.9s), with less than two-tenths of a second separating them in their races. Hervany George secured the 300m for Walcott (50.25s), while Gavriel Daniel won the 600m (1:59.44s) for Gill.

    The girls’ competitions proved equally compelling with victories distributed across houses. Anikka Alexander (Rene) and Nellisa Daniel (Lewis) shared honors in Under-9 events. Walcott’s Arielle Charles demonstrated remarkable versatility with wins in the Under-11 150m (24.0s) and 300m (54.7s) after placing third in the 80m.

    Allina William emerged as a standout performer for Gill in the Under-13 girls category, dominating the 80m (11.9s) and 150m (22.6s) while capturing silver in the 300m (55.9s). Her performance was matched by Alexia Lloyd who claimed gold in both the 300m (52.6s) and 600m (2:13.9s) for her house.

    Despite late surges from both Lewis and Walcott, Gill House maintained its composure to secure back-to-back championships, demonstrating exceptional depth across multiple disciplines and age groups.

  • St. Kitts and Nevis to Host Historic IHF Trophy NACHC Beach Handball Championship

    St. Kitts and Nevis to Host Historic IHF Trophy NACHC Beach Handball Championship

    In a groundbreaking development for Caribbean sports, St. Kitts and Nevis has been selected to host the prestigious IHF Trophy North America and Caribbean Handball Confederation (NACHC) Beach Handball Championship. The historic event is scheduled for April 23-27, 2026, at Frigate Bay, marking the first time this regional competition will be held within the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) region.

    The championship serves as a crucial qualifying tournament for the World Championship finals in Croatia scheduled for June 2026. This selection represents a significant milestone for the smallest member nation of the International Handball Federation, demonstrating the country’s growing influence in international sports development.

    Complementing the competitive events, the IHF will deploy specialized delegates to conduct comprehensive training programs in coaching, refereeing, and delegate management. These educational initiatives aim to build local capacity and establish St. Kitts and Nevis as a center for handball development throughout the Caribbean region.

    Mr. Leroy Greene, President of the St. Kitts and Nevis Handball Association, characterized the hosting rights as “a remarkable achievement for our nation” that would generate international visibility and create enduring opportunities for athletes, coaches, and officials. Additional organizational details and partnership opportunities are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

  • U-17 World Cup 2026 Qualifiers : Our Grenadières dominate Guatemala [3-0] and qualify for the final tournament

    U-17 World Cup 2026 Qualifiers : Our Grenadières dominate Guatemala [3-0] and qualify for the final tournament

    In a display of formidable prowess, Haiti’s U-17 women’s national soccer team, known as the Grenadières, achieved a decisive 3-0 victory against Guatemala on February 2, 2026, at the FFK Stadium in Willemstad, Curaçao. This triumph marked their fourth consecutive win in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026 qualifiers, securing their advancement to the final tournament stage.

    The match began with immediate intensity as Haiti established control from the opening minutes. Krystel Châtelain initiated the scoring in the 4th minute with a precise left-footed strike from a challenging angle, capitalizing on a set-piece opportunity. Merely a minute later, Keisha Gue amplified the lead with a powerful right-footed shot from outside the penalty area, demonstrating exceptional technical skill.

    As the first half concluded, Kerdina Lamour solidified Haiti’s dominance by converting a penalty kick with clinical precision into the top right corner during stoppage time. This third goal effectively sealed the outcome before halftime.

    French coach Frenoy Baptiste maintained consistency by fielding the identical starting lineup that had previously defeated the Cayman Islands. The team featured several diaspora players representing clubs in Canada, the United States, Scotland, and Puerto Rico, alongside domestic talent from Haiti.

    Following the interval, Haiti managed the game comfortably, preserving their substantial lead against Guatemala’s Mataão squad, who struggled to mount any significant offensive response. Strategic substitutions were implemented in the second half, including goalkeeper Abeegayel Favilus being replaced by Shama Jean Baptiste in the 89th minute.

    The victory positions Haiti at the summit of Group C with a perfect record: four victories, seventeen goals scored, and only one conceded. This outstanding performance guarantees their progression to the CONCACAF Champions League qualifiers’ final stage, where they will confront the confederation’s elite teams for a coveted spot in the 2026 World Cup in Morocco.