Carib Scope

分类： sports

  • Pelican Rugby Academy to host Canadian teams

    Pelican Rugby Academy to host Canadian teams

    In a significant development for Caribbean rugby, the Barbados Rugby Football Union (BRFU) has announced an international youth sporting event through its new partnership with Pelican Rugby Academy. The academy is preparing to welcome age-grade teams from St. Theresa of Lisieux Catholic High School, traveling from Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada for a series of competitive matches.

    The event will unfold on Wednesday at Barbados’ iconic rugby venue, the historic Garrison Savannah, which has long served as the heart of the island’s rugby community. The evening’s schedule features a diverse array of matches designed to showcase different skill levels and formats of the game.

    The opening contest, scheduled for 5:30 p.m., will pit Pelican Rugby Academy’s U16 squad against St. Theresa’s U19 ‘B’ team in a touch/hold match format. This will be followed at 5:55 p.m. by a full contact/tackle match between Pelican’s U19 boys and St. Theresa’s U19 ‘A’ team, representing the main event of the international friendly encounter.

    Additional programming includes an internal development match featuring Pelican Rugby Academy U16 girls versus Pelican Rugby Academy U16 boys playing touch rugby. The evening’s finale will conclude with another full contact/tackle match as Pelican Rugby Academy U19s face St. Theresa’s ‘B’ team in what promises to be a competitive closing match.

    This international exchange represents growing ties between North American and Caribbean rugby programs and provides valuable competition experience for developing athletes from both nations.

  • Hamlet making his mark on the track

    Hamlet making his mark on the track

    A teenage track sensation from Barbados is rapidly emerging as one of Caribbean athletics’ most promising talents. Thirteen-year-old Jalino Hamlet, a student at St. Leonard’s Boys’ School, has demonstrated exceptional versatility across multiple sprint disciplines with remarkable personal best times of 11.15 seconds in the 100m, 21.91 in the 200m, and an impressive 48.79 in the 400m event.

    Hamlet’s athletic journey originated at Charles F. Broome Memorial Primary School where he first discovered his passion for running during his early academic years. Currently training with the Extreme Velocity Track Club under coaches Glen Williams and Juquan Beckles, the young sprinter is developing both technical proficiency and competitive discipline.

    The rising star recently showcased his potential during the Esther Maynard and Shane Brathwaite Zone of BSSAC 2026, acknowledging his coaches’ pivotal role in his development. ‘They support me, train me hard and it is great to have both of them as coaches,’ Hamlet told Barbados TODAY.

    Despite encountering adversity with a torn glute injury during the 2025 season, Hamlet demonstrated resilience by competing through discomfort at BSSAC. The challenge ultimately strengthened his determination and training ethic. His international experience includes earning a bronze medal in the 100m (11.69 seconds) at the 2025 Whitsuntide Games.

    As the current BSSAC Championships approach, Hamlet has already established himself as a formidable contender after posting the fastest preliminary time (22.38 seconds) in the Under-15 boys’ 200m event, outpacing his nearest competitor by a significant two-second margin.

    Looking toward regional competition, the young athlete aspires to medal at the upcoming CARIFTA Games in April, acknowledging the challenge while maintaining competitive optimism. Beyond immediate goals, Hamlet draws inspiration from American sprint champion Noah Lyles and ultimately aims to represent Barbados at the Olympic Games, potentially earning international recognition for his nation.

  • The St Michael School ready to defend girls BSSAC title

    The St Michael School ready to defend girls BSSAC title

    A compelling showdown is anticipated at the upcoming Barbados Secondary Schools Athletic Championship (BSSAC), with defending girls’ champions The St Michael School poised to vigorously defend their crown. Head Coach Gabriel Burnett has confidently declared that his squad will not relinquish their title without a formidable fight, signaling a high-stakes battle in the Frank Blackman and Sada Williams Zone competitions scheduled for March 19-20.

    Burnett revealed that strategic preparations are progressing exceptionally well, leveraging previous competitions as critical building blocks. “Our performance at the Field Event Championships was strong, and we intentionally utilized the Relay Fest this season as a dedicated preparatory platform for BSSAC. We are genuinely excited and optimistic about our potential this year,” Burnett told Barbados TODAY. He acknowledged the inherent challenge of defending a championship but emphasized the team’s readiness and winning mentality. “It’s always harder to defend a title, but I can assure you we are thoroughly prepared to do so. Our approach to every competition is to compete for victory, and we are hopeful that circumstances will align in our favor once again,” he added.

    However, the path to victory is fraught with determined challengers. The Lodge School emerges as a primary contender, with Coach Juquan Beckles reporting a significant upward trajectory in his team’s form. Beckles highlighted a remarkable turnaround from the previous year, stating, “We had a modest points gain last year, but this season marks a major comeback. Entering the zone championships, our confidence is high.” He pinpointed the source of their strength, noting, “Our prowess is most evident on the track and in the junior field events scheduled for the zones. This focus positions us to make a very strong and competitive showing this year.” This sets the stage for a gripping athletic contest between a confident champion and an ambitious challenger.

  • Major venues readying for 2026 Central American Games

    Major venues readying for 2026 Central American Games

    Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – Housing Minister Víctor “Ito” Bisonó recently conducted a comprehensive inspection of the emerging sports complex at Parque del Este, a flagship venue for the upcoming 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games. The supervisory visit served to assess construction milestones and reaffirm the nation’s commitment to providing world-class athletic infrastructure for the regional multi-sport event.

    During the thorough site evaluation, ministerial authorities examined multiple competition venues including gymnastics halls, table tennis arenas, weightlifting facilities, skating rinks, and handball courts. Project officials confirmed the archery and weightlifting pavilions have achieved full completion, while gymnastics and table tennis installations approach finalization at 98% completion rate. Ongoing construction continues at the handball pavilion, amphitheater, skating facility, and peripheral outdoor areas.

    Minister Bisonó emphasized the government’s vigilant oversight of all projects, stating that continuous monitoring ensures timely completion while guaranteeing superior quality and safety standards for both Dominican competitors and international athletes. The Parque del Este complex is designated to host pivotal competitions during the games, which will convene sports delegations from over 30 participating nations across the Caribbean and Central American region.

    The 2026 Games represent a significant opportunity for the Dominican Republic to showcase its organizational capabilities and sports infrastructure development, with government officials expressing confidence that all facilities will meet international standards for regional athletic competitions.

  • Motorsport puts safety at the top of the agenda

    Motorsport puts safety at the top of the agenda

    In an unprecedented move prioritizing safety over spectacle, the Barbados Motoring Club (MCBI) terminated its Spring Blaze 26 rally at the halfway point on Sunday. The decisive action followed a critical safety breach where a group of spectators deliberately removed caution tape and occupied a prohibited zone designated as a ‘no-go’ area to secure a vantage point. Despite repeated pleas from volunteer marshals and event officials to relocate to a safe viewing area, the individuals remained defiant, directly challenging the event’s safety protocols. This obstinate refusal forced the management team to cancel the remaining four scheduled runs, cutting the competition short. The island’s premier motorsport bodies, the Barbados Motoring Federation (BMF) and the Barbados Rally Club (BRC), immediately endorsed the MCBI’s difficult decision. This incident casts a shadow reminiscent of a previous tragedy; last April, at least five people were injured during the BRC’s Shakedown Stages Rally in St. Peter when a competing vehicle veered off course into a crowd. MCBI President David Williams expressed his disappointment for the drivers and fans but emphasized that safety was the non-negotiable priority. His sentiment was echoed by BMF President Senator Andrew Mallalieu and BCIC Rally Barbados Event Director Neil Barnard, who collectively reaffirmed an unwavering commitment to safety standards for all participants and spectators, signaling a zero-tolerance policy for such dangerous behavior.

  • Long Marathon, Hoops and Long Balls This Weekend In Sports

    Long Marathon, Hoops and Long Balls This Weekend In Sports

    Belize witnessed an action-packed weekend of athletic excellence across multiple disciplines, showcasing both international and local talent. The sporting festivities kicked off with the annual Run for the Reef in Belize City, a cornerstone event of Reef Week celebrations aimed at supporting conservation efforts for the Belize Barrier Reef.

    The eight-mile competitive road race saw Canadian runner Oliver Sinclair clinch victory in a dramatic photo finish, crossing the line simultaneously with Belize’s Christopher Broaster from Belmopan at 52 minutes and 53 seconds. San Ignacio’s Omar Pulido secured third place just 50 seconds behind the leaders. In the women’s division, Sarteneja’s Chrystal Thomas dominated with a finishing time of 1 hour and 3 minutes, followed by BDF’s Alberta Coh (1:09:00) and San Ignacio’s Jane Champion (1:17:00). The event also featured a two-mile recreational run attracting families and casual participants, with proceeds dedicated to reef preservation initiatives.

    Meanwhile, the National Elite Basketball League (NEBL) delivered thrilling matchups in week four action. The Orange Walk Running Rebels narrowly defeated the Belmopan Trojans 103-100 in Friday’s high-scoring affair, powered by Kenneth Perkins Junior’s 28-point performance. Saturday’s games saw the Cayo Western Ballaz overcome the EZ Investments Griga Dream Ballers 86-74 behind Zoren Smith’s 24 points, while the San Pedro Tiger Sharks topped the Corozal Spartans 87-77 with Devin Moody contributing 25 points.

    Softball action intensified at Sandhill field with nine games played over the weekend. The most decisive victory came as BEL Power Sockets mercy-ruled the Maritime Enforcers 10-1 after five innings, highlighted by a leadoff home run from their shortstop. Other results included HRCU/BCC Eagles defeating Police/Tax Enforcers 14-9, Bowen and Bowen Brewers edging Belize Bank Bulldogs 8-7 in the weekend’s closest contest, and Biscayne Tropical Breeze prevailing over Tiga Town Red Necks 15-8 in coed league action.

  • Iran ‘negotiating’ with FIFA over moving World Cup games to Mexico

    Iran ‘negotiating’ with FIFA over moving World Cup games to Mexico

    MEXICO CITY — Iran’s national football team faces unprecedented geopolitical complications ahead of the World Cup tournament as diplomatic channels intensify efforts to relocate their matches from United States venues to Mexican stadiums. The Iranian Football Federation has formally entered negotiations with FIFA following security concerns raised by former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the team’s safety during the tournament.

    The controversy emerged when Trump publicly questioned security guarantees for the Iranian delegation, stating the team should reconsider traveling to the U.S. “for their own life and safety” despite previous assurances from FIFA President Gianni Infantino about their welcome status. This declaration triggered immediate diplomatic responses from Iranian officials.

    Mehdi Taj, President of Iran’s Football Federation, explicitly stated through the Iranian Embassy in Mexico: “When Trump has explicitly stated that he cannot ensure the security of the Iranian national team, we will certainly not travel to America.” The federation is now pursuing official channels to transfer Iran’s scheduled matches against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt from Los Angeles and Seattle to Mexican venues.

    Ambassador Abolfazl Pasandideh further elaborated on logistical complications, citing the “U.S. government’s lack of cooperation regarding visa issuance and the provision of logistical support” for the Iranian delegation. The diplomatic mission has formally suggested to FIFA that Mexico host Iran’s matches instead.

    The situation developed against the backdrop of recent military confrontations between Iran and the U.S.-Israel alliance, which had already cast doubt on Iran’s participation in the tournament hosted across North America. FIFA has not yet issued an official response to the relocation request or the escalating diplomatic situation surrounding the tournament’s scheduling.

  • Slot vows to win back support of frustrated Liverpool fans

    Slot vows to win back support of frustrated Liverpool fans

    LIVERPOOL, United Kingdom — Facing mounting pressure, Liverpool manager Arne Slot has publicly acknowledged his shortcomings while pledging to win back the disillusioned Anfield faithful following a string of disappointing results. The Dutch coach finds himself in the eye of a storm as Liverpool’s Premier League title defense crumbles and their Champions League future hangs by a thread.

    The atmosphere turned toxic at Anfield last Sunday when Liverpool conceded a last-gasp equalizer to Tottenham, prompting audible boos from the home crowd—a first such vocal display of discontent directed at Slot this season. This public frustration marks a significant shift for a fanbase historically known for its unwavering support through managerial tough times.

    Reflecting on the criticism, Slot stated, ‘It’s never pleasant when supporters feel frustrated. Their discontent suggests I must have erred in numerous aspects. This club has always stood by its managers in both triumph and adversity, so their current dissatisfaction indicates I’ve made considerable mistakes.’

    The manager’s acknowledgment comes amid a turbulent second season that has seen Liverpool drop to fifth in the Premier League standings while displaying noticeable defensive vulnerabilities and attacking inefficiency. This represents a dramatic fall from his spectacular debut campaign that delivered the English championship following Jurgen Klopp’s departure.

    With a crucial Champions League clash against Galatasaray looming—requiring overturning a 1-0 first-leg deficit—Slot remains defiant about his squad’s unity despite recent criticism from club legend Jamie Carragher questioning the players’ collective commitment.

    ‘I fundamentally disagree with Carragher’s assessment regarding team cohesion,’ Slot countered. ‘What I observe is a squad battling collectively through numerous setbacks this season. A disconnected group wouldn’t demonstrate the resilience we’ve consistently shown.’

    The manager pins his hopes on Anfield’s legendary European nights atmosphere to inspire a turnaround, emphasizing that ‘our supporters will undoubtedly back us tomorrow, as they always have throughout this club’s history.’ Despite recent isolation, Slot maintains he has ‘never felt alone’ at Liverpool, clinging to optimism that victory can swiftly transform the current narrative.

  • LEFT OUT

    LEFT OUT

    Jamaica’s national football team faces a pivotal moment in their World Cup qualifying campaign as interim Head Coach Rudolph Speid prepares to announce a controversial squad selection for the upcoming inter-confederation play-offs. The Reggae Boyz must overcome New Caledonia and DR Congo later this month to secure a spot in this summer’s global tournament, but will do so without several established stars.

    Multiple sources confirm that six players from Jamaica’s recent Concacaf qualifying campaign have been excluded from consideration, including the nation’s leading goalscorer Shamar Nicholson. The omission extends to Leicester City winger Dujuan ‘Whisper’ Richards, Charlton Athletic forward Kaheim Dixon, Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Dexter Lembikisa, and Mansfield Town midfielder Jon Russell. West Ham United striker Michail Antonio will also be absent despite recently returning to club action in the Qatar Stars League.

    The selection decisions appear rooted in Speid’s newly implemented criteria, which has drawn criticism from within Jamaican football circles. Ludlow Bernard, the Jamaica Premier League-winning coach, expressed concern that performance metrics should outweigh rigid selection parameters, particularly given the limited options available in key positions.

    In place of the experienced absentees, Speid is expected to introduce three newcomers who have recently obtained Jamaican passports: Coventry City’s Ephron Mason-Clark (26), Sheffield United’s Andre Brooks (22), and Tottenham academy product Tyrese Hall (20). Mason-Clark brings impressive form with seven goals and seven assists in the Championship, while Hall has contributed five goals and two assists during his loan spell at Notts County.

    Bernard cautioned that integrating new players amidst high-stakes matches presents significant risk, noting that previous experiments with overseas-based players have yielded mixed results due to limited familiarity with teammates and national systems. However, he acknowledged that Speid’s pragmatic, defense-oriented approach—honed through back-to-back Premier League titles—might prove effective in the two-game format.

    The interim coach faces the formidable challenge of balancing tactical preferences with available personnel while managing public expectations. With World Cup qualification on the line, Speid’s selections will ultimately determine whether Jamaica’s gamble on a revamped squad pays dividends or results in premature elimination from contention.

  • Liberty Business powers Mayberry Swim Classic with high-speed connectivity

    Liberty Business powers Mayberry Swim Classic with high-speed connectivity

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The upcoming Mayberry Swim Classic, a premier national swimming competition, has secured a significant technological partnership with Liberty Business, the B2B division of telecommunications provider Liberty Caribbean. The two-day event, scheduled for March 20–21 at the National Stadium pool, will feature enhanced digital infrastructure thanks to this new sponsorship.

    Liberty Business announced it will deploy high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity across the entire competition venue. This initiative is designed to ensure athletes, coaching staff, event officials, and spectators remain seamlessly connected throughout the tournament. The reliable internet access will facilitate the instant sharing of race results and highlights, improve coordination among organizational teams, and allow attendees to broadcast their experiences in real-time.

    Charles Manus, Senior Director of Liberty Business, emphasized that the collaboration underscores the company’s dedication to enriching sporting events through technological innovation. He stated, “The Mayberry Swim Classic serves as a crucial developmental platform for Jamaica’s emerging aquatic talent. We understand that robust connectivity is now fundamental to the modern sporting ecosystem. Our support helps ensure that everyone involved can fully engage with the event while celebrating the accomplishments of these young athletes.”

    Manus further highlighted that the quality of connectivity is backed by the performance of Flow Jamaica’s network, which was recently awarded the title of Jamaica’s fastest mobile network by internet analytics firm Ookla. In addition to providing Wi-Fi, Flow will have an on-site presence offering exclusive promotions on the latest smartphones and flexible payment plans, enabling patrons to upgrade their devices and mobile services.