Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has raised concerns over the government’s recent decision to ban fetes at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy (BLCA), questioning the timing and potential foreign interest in the venue. Speaking at a media conference in Port of Spain on November 13, Beckles referenced Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo’s statement during the 2025/2026 budget debate about creating a state-sponsored real estate investment trust (REIT). Tancoo described the initiative as a landmark effort to democratize state-owned assets, diversify Trinidad and Tobago’s capital market, and broaden public participation in national wealth creation. High-value income-generating properties, including land, office buildings, and commercial infrastructure, would be transferred into the REIT, with shares listed on the TT Stock Exchange to allow investors to earn dividends. Beckles questioned whether the BLCA was among these properties and hinted at potential foreign interest in the venue. She also criticized the government’s handling of noise pollution, noting that it is a widespread issue not unique to the BLCA. Beckles recalled developing an app during her tenure as planning and environment minister to monitor noise levels in Woodbrook, with plans to share data with other communities. She emphasized that the BLCA’s carpark, used for events, is restored after use, with fees withheld if requirements are not met. Beckles also expressed concerns about the potential loss of revenue for Carnival 2026, citing the cancellation of the Independence Day parade and the extended state of emergency. She questioned the Prime Minister’s refusal to consult with promoters, stating that state-owned facilities like the BLCA belong to the public. Former ministers Faris Al-Rawi and Dr. Amery Browne echoed concerns about the impact on Carnival and regional perceptions of Trinidad and Tobago.
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Cancel Christmas?
As Jamaica approaches the festive season, the island finds itself at a crossroads, balancing the need for celebration with the somber reality of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation. Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Jamaica are traditionally vibrant, family-centered occasions filled with cultural richness, delectable cuisine, and continuous festivities. However, this year, the conversation has shifted to whether such celebrations are appropriate in the wake of widespread destruction.
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ALMOST HOME
In a high-stakes FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz were held to a 1-1 draw by Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) on Thursday night. The result leaves Jamaica in a precarious position in Group B, with their upcoming match against Curaçao now a must-win encounter to secure automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Jamaica currently sits second in the group with 10 points, trailing Curaçao, who surged to 11 points after a dominant 7-0 victory over Bermuda. T&T remains third with six points, while Bermuda is yet to secure a point. The match carried significant emotional weight for Jamaica, as the team aims to mark the 100th anniversary of their first international match with a World Cup berth, offering a beacon of hope for a nation still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Melissa. The game began with T&T capitalizing on their home advantage, with captain Levi Garcia testing Jamaica’s defense early. Despite Jamaica’s resilience, T&T’s relentless pressure paid off in the 85th minute when Kevin Molino equalized after Jamaica failed to clear a throw-in. Jamaica’s lone goal came in the 53rd minute through Renaldo Cephas, who delivered a stunning solo effort. However, the Reggae Boyz couldn’t capitalize on late chances, leaving their fate to be decided in Tuesday’s decisive clash against Curaçao in Kingston. Only the group winners are guaranteed a spot in the World Cup, with the best second-place team entering a playoff for a chance to compete on the global stage.
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Classics for a cause
The Jamaica Classic Car Club (JCCC) is set to host its much-anticipated Classic Car Show this Sunday, November 16, at the Jamaica Horticultural Society in Hope Pastures, St. Andrew. Originally intended as a fundraiser for the club, the event has now been repurposed to support relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Melissa. Naresh Potopsingh, President of the JCCC, emphasized the shift in focus, stating, ‘Initially, the show was planned to raise funds for the club, but now we aim to contribute to hurricane relief.’ This marks the first car show organized by the JCCC since 2018. The club’s executive will determine how the funds will be allocated post-event, with assurances that the proceeds will be directed to areas of greatest need. ‘This is a challenging time, and we want to do our part to help,’ Potopsingh added. The event will showcase a diverse array of classic and modern vehicles from the club’s members, offering patrons a unique automotive experience. Potopsingh highlighted the club’s efforts to mobilize members to bring as many vehicles as possible, promising ‘a mix of all kinds of cars.’ Beyond the car displays, attendees can enjoy gate prizes, a fashion exhibition by Phusion Models International, and music curated by DJ Audley. The JCCC continues to demonstrate its commitment to community support and its passion for automotive heritage.
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Foster returns home, set for busy weekend at Caymanas Park
Jamaican jockey Tevin Foster is making a triumphant return to his home turf, igniting excitement among racing enthusiasts. After a stellar debut season in Canada, where he secured 14 wins, 23 second-place finishes, and 29 third-place finishes from 173 mounts, amassing earnings of CAN$252,194, Foster is poised to dominate the tracks this weekend with 10 scheduled rides. His packed agenda begins on Saturday, where he’ll partner with Cassini for trainer Adrian Prince in the opening race, followed by Dancing Aviator for Jason DaCosta in the third. The action continues with Green Gold Rush for Ryan Darby in the sixth, J Spieth for DaCosta in the eighth, and concludes with Provident for DaCosta in the final event. Sunday’s lineup is equally thrilling, with Foster aboard Princess Fiannie for Omar Williams in the first race, Money Monster for Adrian Prince in the fourth, and the highly anticipated St Elizabeth Distaff, where he’ll ride Fearless Force for Anthony Nunes. The Port Royal Sprint will see him team up with Is That A Fact for DaCosta, and he’ll wrap up the weekend with Girvano for DaCosta in the Jamaica Cup. Foster’s return is particularly poignant as Jamaica continues to recover from the devastation wrought by Category 5 Hurricane Melissa, which struck the island on October 28. All eyes will be on Foster as he aims to deliver a stellar performance on home soil.
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Nunes’ strong hand: Fearless Force and Linguist lead pack in St Elizabeth Distaff
Trainer Anthony ‘Baba’ Nunes is emerging as a formidable force in the upcoming $1.5-million St Elizabeth Distaff, scheduled for Sunday. With his top two runners, Fearless Force and Linguist, Nunes has a strong chance to clinch the Overnight Allowance contest for three-year-old fillies and mares over one mile (1,600m). Here’s an analysis of the runners and their prospects:
1. **Pretty Perfect**: The Winston ‘Fanna’ Griffiths Classic winner faces a daunting challenge against a highly competitive field, making her likely to be outclassed.
2. **Burning Hedge**: This year’s 1000 Guineas champion has shown remarkable consistency but will face stiff competition from Fearless Force and stablemate Linguist.
3. **Sistren Treasure (USA)**: Struggling in recent performances, this filly is unlikely to make a significant impact in this race.
4. **Immeasurable Joy**: Given the strength of the competition, this contender has little chance of securing a win.
5. **Main Mistress (USA)**: A recent winner on October 25, she is expected to perform well but is unlikely to take the top spot.
6. **Fearless Force (USA)**: Unbeatable on paper, Fearless Force has trained exceptionally well and is stepping down in class, making her the top contender to lead the pack and claim the trophy.
7. **Linguist**: The Jamaica Oaks winner has excelled in her two starts at this level and could challenge Fearless Force for top honors, positioning her as a strong contender for an upset.
— Ruddy Allen
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Claiming system vs handicap system: Which is better for Jamaica’s horse racing?
The horse racing industry has long relied on classification systems to ensure fair competition and drive profitable wagering. However, the claiming system, a method that categorizes horses into over 20 artificial groups based on factors like age, sex, and earnings rather than genetic ability, has proven to be a significant failure. Unlike the handicap system, which assigns weights to horses based on past performances to equalize their chances, the claiming system lacks the ability to balance form and ability effectively. This has led to a decline in competitive wagering, as superior horses often dominate races, leaving little room for unpredictability.
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Jamaica Cup showdown: Funcaandun favours to win
The Jamaica Cup, a prestigious Graded Stakes race for three-year-olds and above, is poised to deliver an electrifying spectacle this Sunday, November 16, 2025. Held over 9 ½ furlongs (1,900m), the event promises to be a thrilling contest with a $6-million purse up for grabs. Adding to the excitement, the winner secures automatic entry into the highly anticipated Mouttet Mile on December 6, raising the stakes even higher.
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Another One set to romp home in feature race
The highly anticipated StarGas United Racehorse Trainers’ Association of Jamaica (URTAJ) Trophy, boasting a prize pool of $1.25 million, is set to headline the racing action at Caymanas Park tomorrow. A competitive field of 13 runners will vie for victory in the Restricted Overnight Allowance contest, open to three-year-olds and older, over a distance of 6 furlongs (1,200 meters). Here’s an in-depth look at the contenders and their prospects:
1. **KWAKU**: With no notable form, this seven-year-old bay horse is considered a long shot.
2. **SUPER ALEX**: Despite recent consistency, this five-year-old chestnut horse is expected to struggle in this competitive field.
3. **ZULU WARRIOR**: Narrowly defeated in his last outing, this four-year-old chestnut colt could improve against tougher rivals.
4. **ALLEGIANCE**: Known for his strong finishing ability, this four-year-old chestnut colt might spring a surprise despite needing more distance.
5. **PROVIDENT**: Likely to fall behind, making him a horse to avoid.
6. **I DREAM AGAIN**: The Jamaica Derby winner has yet to shine at this level but could still place.
7. **CALIFORNIA GOLD**: With no winning prospects, this five-year-old bay horse is best bypassed.
8. **HUNTSMAN**: Expected to perform well but unlikely to win.
9. **COMEHOMETOME**: Despite underwhelming performances, this four-year-old bay filly has the class to make a bold bid.
10. **ANOTHER ONE**: The standout contender, this three-year-old bay colt is tipped to dominate the race.
11. **OIL MACHINE**: Lacks the form to make an impact.
12. **KING’S CROWN**: Best avoided due to poor recent performances.
13. **COOKIE DAY N NIGHT**: Likely to struggle against this field.The race promises thrilling competition, with **Another One** emerging as the clear favorite to claim the prestigious trophy.
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JBG CRISIS DEEPENS
Jamaica Broilers Group (JBG) has reported a staggering $7.2 billion net loss for the fiscal year ending May 3, 2025, following the discovery of significant accounting irregularities in its US operations. The irregularities necessitated a restatement of prior financial results, leading to a massive write-down of intangible assets, goodwill, and biological assets, which severely impacted the company’s equity. The restatement erased billions from the company’s stated equity, resulting in a consolidated group loss despite a $2.5 billion net profit from its core Jamaican operations, which include the Best Dressed Chicken and Hi-Pro Ace brands. The US subsidiaries, however, reported a net loss of $9.1 billion, completely offsetting the gains from Jamaica. The financial turmoil triggered a breach of the company’s debt covenants, prompting its auditor, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), to highlight a ‘material uncertainty’ about the group’s ability to continue as a going concern. The consolidated balance sheet now shows liabilities exceeding assets, with negative equity of $10.03 billion and total borrowings of $42.5 billion. The company’s directors have implemented a survival plan, including detailed cash flow forecasting and cost control measures, while engaging in ongoing discussions with financial institutions. The scandal, centered on inflated asset values and hidden debts in the US operations, led to the departure of the entire US management team, including Stephen Levy, the brother of Group President and CEO Christopher Levy. PwC issued a qualified opinion on the financial statements, citing insufficient evidence regarding the completeness of the accounting irregularities. The restatement erased $22 billion from the company’s historical profits, revealing that the previously reported earnings never existed. The company’s liquidity position is precarious, with current liabilities of $63 billion significantly exceeding current assets of $28.5 billion. Despite the crisis, the core Jamaican operations remain profitable, with a 33% rise in operating profit to $2.12 billion in the latest quarter. However, the impending $40 billion restatement looms over the company’s future. The scandal has severely impacted investor confidence, with the stock price plummeting 35.75% since the start of the year. The company’s ability to renegotiate terms with lenders and stabilize its US operations will determine its survival.