分类： sports

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.

The Jamaica Premier League (JPL), sponsored by Wray & Nephew, faces an indefinite suspension as clubs struggle to recover from the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. Originally set to resume this week, the league has been postponed for the second consecutive week, with several teams suffering significant losses. Treasure Beach FC in St Elizabeth and Montego Bay United in St James are among the hardest hit, reporting extensive damage to club facilities and personal property, including the homes of players and staff. Even clubs in the corporate area, which avoided the hurricane’s full force, have not been spared from its effects.

Owen Hill, CEO of Professional Football Jamaica (PFJ), emphasized that the league’s immediate focus is on providing comprehensive support to the affected clubs rather than resuming play. While no lives were lost, Hill acknowledged the severe infrastructural devastation and the emotional toll on the football community. ‘We’re prioritizing mental well-being and livelihoods,’ he stated, adding that football-related matters are secondary at this time.

PFJ has mobilized resources, including water and non-perishable items, and is collaborating with sponsors, the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), and the government to coordinate relief efforts. Hill stressed that recovery will be a long-term endeavor, requiring sustained support and logistical coordination. ‘Transportation and access to affected areas are major challenges,’ he noted.

With 14 games already postponed, Hill could not provide a definitive timeline for the league’s return. However, he expressed optimism that the JPL, when it resumes, will serve as a beacon of hope for the nation. ‘Football will continue, and we’ll use our platform to inspire resilience and unity,’ he said. Hill also highlighted the opportunity for the community to come together and rebuild, emphasizing that no club or individual will be left behind in the recovery process.

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.