As Jamaica prepares for the imminent arrival of Tropical Storm Melissa, which is expected to escalate into a Category 5 hurricane, the nation’s key sporting venues are intensifying their efforts to mitigate potential damage. Meteorologists have issued warnings of life-threatening flash floods and landslides due to the storm’s heavy rainfall and destructive winds, with its effects anticipated to be felt by Tuesday. The storm has already disrupted the sporting calendar, leading to the postponement of major events, including the Wray & Nephew Jamaica Premier League, ISSA schoolboy football competitions, and Mount Pleasant’s Concacaf Caribbean Cup semi-final against Trinidad and Tobago’s Defence Force FC. Only horse racing at Caymanas Park remains unaffected. Independence Park General Manager Major Desmon Brown expressed confidence in the National Stadium’s resilience but highlighted concerns about the National Aquatics Centre, where flooding from nearby roads poses a significant threat. Sandbags have been deployed as a temporary measure, but long-term solutions depend on road infrastructure improvements. Meanwhile, the National Arena and Trelawny Stadium have been designated as public shelters, with preparations overseen by the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM). Sabina Park, a premier cricket venue, faces potential flooding, though Jamaica Cricket Association President Dr. Donovan Bennett remains cautiously optimistic, citing recent repairs to the scoreboard and functional drainage systems. In Montego Bay, the Sports Complex’s robust steel structure has instilled confidence in its ability to withstand the storm, with Montego Bay United President Yoni Epstein emphasizing the collaborative efforts between the club and the St. James Municipal Corporation. Across the island, venues like Caymanas Park have also undertaken extensive preparations to safeguard their facilities. As Jamaica braces for Melissa’s impact, the resilience and proactive measures of its sporting community stand as a testament to their determination to weather the storm.
分类： sports
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Palo Seco Secondary clinch south championship division crown
The 2025 Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) First Citizens Boys’ ‘Big 5’ tournament has reached a pivotal stage with the confirmation of the five teams competing for promotion to the premier division. Palo Seco Secondary emerged victorious in the south championship division, securing their win with 22 points, just two points ahead of Pleasantville Secondary. The top four teams in this fiercely competitive zone were separated by a mere seven points, highlighting the intensity of the matches. Palo Seco’s final zonal match against Point Fortin East Secondary ended in a 1-1 draw at the Guapo Recreation Ground on October 24, a rescheduled fixture after their previous encounter was abandoned due to a bee invasion. Earlier, Palo Seco was awarded three points for an abandoned match against Rio Cloo West Secondary on September 26, following a ruling on October 22 that found Rio Claro West guilty of fielding an underprepared pitch. Similarly, Chaguanas North Secondary faced a setback when their match against Presentation College Chaguanas was abandoned due to unsuitable field markings, resulting in a 3-0 win for Presentation College. Joining Palo Seco and Presentation Chaguanas in the ‘Big 5’ tournament are Hillview College (east), Mucurapo West Secondary (north), and Speyside Secondary (Tobago). The tournament kicks off on October 29, with Mucurapo West hosting Hillview and Palo Seco facing Speyside, while Presentation College enjoys a bye on the first match day. The top three teams from the ‘Big 5’ will secure their spots in the Premier Division for the 2026 season.
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Four players crack fifties in Red Force Super50 trial match
In an intense trial match at the National Cricket Centre in Couva, Trinidad, the Vikash Mohan XI edged out the Terrance Hinds XI by two wickets, showcasing a thrilling contest ahead of the upcoming CG United Super50 tournament. The match, held on October 24, featured standout performances from several players, including Trinidad and Tobago Red Force batsman Cephas Cooper and National Cricketer of the Year Jason Mohammed. Batting first, the Hinds XI posted a competitive total of 242 in 46.1 overs, thanks to Cooper’s 73 off 84 balls and Mohammed’s 68 off 75. However, their efforts fell short as the Mohan XI chased down the target with 244 for eight in 43.5 overs. Shatrughan Rambaran’s aggressive 66 off 58 and Navin Bidaisee’s composed 54 not out off 76 were pivotal in the victory. Despite losing wickets steadily, Bidaisee and Andrew Rambaran’s 20-run partnership ensured a smooth finish. Earlier, Shaaron Lewis’s three-wicket haul and Mikkel Govia’s two scalps kept the Hinds XI in check. The next trial matches are set for October 26 and 27 at the same venue.
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Benedict’s go 2nd in SSFL premier division, ‘Naps’ lead cut to one point
The 2205 Secondary Schools Football League (SSFL) premier division witnessed a series of intense matches on October 25, with significant implications for the title race. St Benedict’s College, the reigning Coca-Cola national intercol champions, secured a crucial 1-0 victory over St Anthony’s College at the Mahaica Sporting Complex in Point Fortin. The win propelled them from third to second place in the standings, just one point behind leaders Naparima College. The match was delayed due to a waterlogged pitch, but St Benedict’s made the most of their opportunity with an early goal from Elijah David, reigniting their title aspirations.
Elsewhere, Naparima College, sitting atop the table with 28 points, were held to a surprising 1-1 draw by San Juan North Secondary. Meanwhile, defending champions Fatima College (26 points) slipped to third place after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Presentation College San Fernando (25 points). The match at Fatima Grounds saw both teams create numerous chances, with Isaiah Jacob of Presentation scoring his 14th goal of the season, while Jonathan Mason equalized for Fatima with a stunning long-range strike.
The results have tightened the race at the top, with the top four teams now separated by just three points. In other matches, Arima North Secondary climbed to seventh place with a 4-2 victory over Trinity College East, thanks to a brace from Darren De Four. The SSFL premier division continues to deliver thrilling encounters as the season approaches its climax.
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Nicholas Paul speeds into sprint semis at World Cycling Champs
Trinidad and Tobago’s cycling sensation, Nicholas Paul, is set to continue his quest for a medal at the 2025 Tissot UCI Track World Championships in Santiago, Chile. The 27-year-old sprinter will compete in the men’s sprint semifinals on October 26, the final day of the event. However, Paul faces a formidable opponent in Dutch cyclist Harrie Lavreysen, a 19-time world champion who has already secured the men’s keirin and 1K time trial titles at this championship. The semifinal showdown between Paul and Lavreysen is scheduled for approximately 10 am (TT time), while world record holder Matthew Richardson of Great Britain and Australia’s Leigh Hoffman will clash in the first semifinal.
Paul’s journey to the semifinals has been marked by impressive performances. On October 25, he triumphed over Israel’s Mikhail Yakolev in the quarterfinals, winning both races in their best-of-three matchup. Despite Yakolev’s aggressive start in the first race, Paul showcased his resilience and tactical prowess to secure victory. In the second race, Paul executed a decisive early move to edge out his opponent and advance to the semifinals.
Paul’s motivation is further fueled by his desire to avenge his runner-up finish against Lavreysen in the 2023 world championships sprint finale. The 2025 final is set to take place at 12:44 pm on October 26.
In other quarterfinal matches, Lavreysen defeated France’s Rayan Helal, Richardson overcame Japan’s Kaiya Ota, and Hoffman staged a remarkable comeback to beat Netherlands’ Jeffrey Hoogland. Earlier in the day, Paul demonstrated his sprinting prowess by cruising through the qualifying, 1/16, and 1/8 finals. He clocked the sixth-fastest time in the qualifying round at 9.475 seconds, while Richardson set the fastest time at 9.210 seconds.
Meanwhile, Trinidad and Tobago’s Makaira Wallace finished 22nd in the women’s 1K time trial, and Teniel Campbell placed 19th in the women’s individual pursuit. In the men’s omnium, Akil Campbell found himself at the back of the 24-man field after the initial races on October 25.
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Police thump Jabloteh 4-0, Rangers vs Phoenix postponed
The 2025 Trinidad and Tobago Premier Football League (TTPFL) Tier I kicked off with a commanding performance by Miscellaneous Police, who secured a resounding 4-0 victory over San Juan Jabloteh at the Dwight Yorke Stadium in Bacolet, Tobago. Kwesi Allen was the star of the match, scoring two first-half goals to set the tone for his team. Allen opened the scoring in the fourth minute with a swift strike, followed by a stunning finish in the 35th minute to complete his brace. Jem Gordon added a third goal just before halftime in the 43rd minute, while former national team captain Joevin Jones sealed the win with a goal in the 69th minute. The match showcased Miscellaneous Police’s dominance, particularly against a youthful Jabloteh side. Meanwhile, the second match of the doubleheader between Terminix La Horquetta Rangers and FC Phoenix was postponed due to flight disruptions caused by unexpected airspace restrictions. TT Football Association executive secretary Yale Antoine described the situation as a ‘force majeure’ event, praising the professionalism of all teams involved despite the challenges.
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Arsenal extend Premier League lead as Man City lose at Villa
Arsenal solidified their position at the top of the Premier League table with a narrow 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace, thanks to Eberechi Eze’s decisive goal against his former club. Meanwhile, Manchester City suffered a surprising 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa, ending Erling Haaland’s impressive 12-game scoring streak. Bournemouth emerged as Arsenal’s closest challengers after a 2-0 win against Nottingham Forest, while Liverpool’s struggles continued with a loss to Brentford the previous day. Arsenal’s victory was marked by their defensive resilience, as they secured their 10th clean sheet in 13 games across all competitions this season. However, injuries to key players Declan Rice and William Saliba raised concerns for manager Mikel Arteta. Manchester City’s lack of offensive firepower beyond Haaland proved costly, with no other player scoring in the Premier League for a month. Bournemouth’s Marcus Tavernier and Eli Junior Kroupi were instrumental in their win, while Burnley’s Lyle Foster secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Wolves, leaving the latter in a precarious position near the bottom of the table.
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Antigua Yacht Club Officially Opens the Caribbean Dinghy Championship 2025
The Caribbean Dinghy Championship (CDC) 2025 officially commenced on Thursday, 23rd October 2025, with a vibrant Opening Ceremony held at the Antigua Yacht Club (AYC) Multipurpose Centre. The event, which began at 7:00 p.m., marked the start of a weekend filled with competitive sailing, skill-building, and regional camaraderie. The ceremony was expertly orchestrated by Mr. John Gaillard, AYC’s House and Grounds Director, who introduced the distinguished speakers and welcomed the attendees. Dr. Clarence E. Pilgrim, Commodore of the AYC and Chairman of the 2025 CDC, delivered an inspiring speech, emphasizing that the championship transcends competition, focusing instead on fostering friendships, learning, and the collective growth of sailing across the Caribbean. He warmly welcomed all participating nations and praised the young sailors, calling them ‘the future of the Caribbean maritime industry.’ His remarks were met with enthusiastic applause, setting a tone of unity and optimism. Dr. Pilgrim also acknowledged the event’s proud sponsors, the National Parks Authority and the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority. Mrs. Alison Sly-Adams, representing the Caribbean Sailing Association (CSA), commended the inclusive format of the championship, which encourages broader regional participation. She highlighted the CSA’s efforts to enhance collaboration among islands through an updated racing calendar and the event’s evolution since its establishment in 1967. The Hon. Paul ‘Chet’ Greene, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Barbuda Affairs, encouraged the young competitors to embrace discipline, teamwork, and perseverance, values he noted are essential both in sailing and life. Following the speeches, Dr. Pilgrim rang the Sailors’ Bell, symbolically opening the championship and heralding three days of spirited racing. Antigua and Barbuda, the host nation, enters the competition with a proud record, having won the Nation’s Cup in 2024 and securing five consecutive victories since 2019. The evening concluded with a sumptuous dinner prepared by Bar-B’s, a long-time supporter of AYC events, fostering fellowship among sailors, parents, and officials. Teams from St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Sint Maarten, and Antigua will compete in a series of races, with the championship culminating in the Prize-Giving Ceremony on Sunday at noon. The weekend promises to be a celebration of excellence, regional unity, and the enduring spirit of Caribbean sailing.
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Sir Curtly Ambrose Joins Leeward Islands Cricket Board as Technical Consultant
The Leeward Islands Cricket Board (LICB) has officially named cricket icon Sir Curtly Ambrose as its new Technical Consultant, with his tenure set to commence on October 1, 2025. In this pivotal role, Sir Curtly will oversee the strategic development of the Leeward Islands Hurricanes and contribute as a key member of the LICB Selection Panel. Additionally, he will mentor players across all levels, leveraging his illustrious international career and deep expertise in cricket to guide the next generation of talent. LICB President Mr. Enoch Lewis expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment, highlighting Sir Curtly’s professionalism, discipline, and dedication to excellence as transformative assets for the organization. Sir Curtly, in turn, shared his eagerness to give back to the sport that shaped his legacy, emphasizing his commitment to nurturing both the athletic and personal growth of young players. His first task will involve observing the LICB Senior Men’s Tournament in St. Kitts, where he will evaluate emerging talent and prepare for the upcoming season. The LICB has pledged its full support to Sir Curtly as he embarks on this mission to elevate the standard of cricket in the Leeward Islands.
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Qatar 2025 World Cup : Final selection list for the U-17 Grenadiers
After months of rigorous training and dedication, Haitian coach Eddy César has finalized the 21-player squad that will represent Haiti at the U-17 World Cup in Qatar 2025. This selection marks a significant milestone for the young athletes, who have risen from humble beginnings to now carry the hopes of an entire nation on their shoulders. The team, known as the Grenadiers, comprises players from various academies across Haiti, Jamaica, the USA, Spain, and Switzerland, showcasing a blend of local talent and international exposure. The final roster includes three goalkeepers, seven defenders, six midfielders, and five attackers, each chosen for their exceptional skills and potential. The Grenadiers will face Egypt, England, and Venezuela in the group stage, with matches scheduled for November 4th, 7th, and 10th, 2025. This tournament not only offers a platform for these young players to shine but also serves as a beacon of hope for Haitian football, which has been striving to regain its former glory. The nation eagerly anticipates the team’s performance, as they aim to make history on the global stage.