KINGSTON, Jamaica — WIP Energy, a subsidiary of West Indies Petroleum Limited (WIP), has stepped into the spotlight as the main sponsor of the 41st Canoe Tournament, set to take place from October 21 to 25, 2025. This event is a key component of the 62nd Port Antonio International Marlin Fishing Tournament, a hallmark of Jamaica’s maritime culture. WIP Energy will supply fuel for approximately 60 vessels participating in the competition, reinforcing its dedication to preserving Jamaica’s fishing traditions and boosting tourism in Portland. Wayne Fraser, General Manager of WIP Energy, emphasized the tournament’s role in fostering community bonds, celebrating maritime heritage, and creating economic opportunities for local fisherfolk. ‘These events are more than just competitions; they are a celebration of our traditions and a platform for economic growth,’ Fraser stated. The canoe tournament, Jamaica’s longest-running local fishing competition, draws around 180 participants from six parishes: St Thomas, Portland, St Mary, St Ann, St James, and Trelawny. Beyond showcasing traditional fishing practices, the event serves as a vital economic driver for fishing communities, enabling participants to enhance their earnings and elevate their fishing enterprises. Fraser highlighted the symbiotic relationship between WIP Energy and the fishing community, noting that many participants are indirect customers of the company. ‘This partnership allows us to give back to a community that has supported our growth. We celebrate their dedication and skill while strengthening Port Antonio’s reputation as a premier fishing destination,’ he added. The tournament kicks off on Tuesday, with fishing commencing at 7:00 am at ‘Di Ole Marina’ in Port Antonio.
标签： Jamaica
牙买加
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Larris Allen reaches 500th career win in Canada
Jamaican jockey Larris Allen has achieved a monumental milestone in his illustrious career, securing his 500th win on the international racing circuit on Monday, October 13, 2025. The historic victory took place at Lethbridge Racetrack in Canada, where Allen rode Pole to Pole, trained by Lyle Magnuson, to a commanding 4 ¼ lengths win in the six-furlong Allowance race. The triumph, completed in 1:10.1, solidified Allen’s status as one of the premier jockeys in the sport. Allen, who began his North American racing career in 2028, didn’t stop at this milestone. He went on to ride three more winners that day, showcasing his exceptional talent and consistency. In the second race, he guided Jacrodra’s, another Magnuson-trained horse, to a 1 ¼ lengths victory in 1:09.2. Allen’s dominance continued in the fifth race, where he piloted I Will Stand, trained by Jim Depew, to a 2 ¼ lengths win over seven furlongs in 1:25.2. The highlight of the day came in the seventh race, the CAN$10,900 Farewell Stakes, where Allen partnered with Chicle Sparks, trained by Monkumar Mohindee, to deliver a breathtaking performance. Chicle Sparks stormed to victory by an astonishing 5 ¼ lengths, finishing in 1:25.0. With this remarkable day, Allen’s career statistics now stand at 503 wins, 353 seconds, and 371 thirds from 1,949 mounts, with Stakes earnings totaling CAN$1,867,505. Meanwhile, fellow Jamaican jockey Oshane Nugent is also making waves on the international circuit. Nugent secured his latest victory on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at Lethbridge, riding Wocka Wocka, trained by Floyd Buffalo, to a dominant 6 ¾ lengths win in the CAN$13,050 Amote Open Derby. Wocka Wocka finished ahead of Reboso (Tevin Foster) and Tapologist (Ryan Nelson) with a time of 1:27.2. Nugent’s record for the year includes seven wins, seven second-place finishes, and three third-place finishes, earning CAN$38,022 in Stakes earnings. The performances of Allen and Nugent highlight the growing influence of Jamaican jockeys on the global racing stage.
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Trump says Venezuela’s Maduro offered ‘everything’ to ease tensions
In a fiery exchange at the White House on Friday, US President Donald Trump directed a blunt verbal assault at Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, claiming the leftist leader had made significant concessions to de-escalate tensions with Washington. ‘He has offered everything, you’re right. You know why? Because he doesn’t want to mess around with the United States,’ Trump remarked when questioned about reports of Venezuela’s proposed de-escalation plans. The US has accused Maduro of leading a drug cartel and has intensified its military presence in the region, deploying stealth warplanes and seven Navy ships as part of its counter-narcotics operations. Earlier this week, B-52 bombers conducted a prolonged flight over the Caribbean near Venezuela, a move the US military described as a demonstration of its commitment to deterring threats and ensuring global readiness. This military buildup has raised concerns in Caracas that Washington’s ultimate objective is regime change. Venezuela is allegedly linked to several drug-smuggling vessels targeted by US forces in a recent campaign that has resulted in over two dozen deaths. Trump defended the strikes, stating, ‘We attacked a submarine, and that was a drug-carrying submarine built specifically for the transportation of massive amounts of drugs.’ However, Washington has yet to provide evidence supporting its claims that the targets were drug smugglers. Experts argue that such summary killings are illegal, even if the targets are confirmed narcotics traffickers.
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Cave Valley main road impassable
Residents and commuters in St Ann, Jamaica, are facing significant disruptions as the Cave Valley main road, a crucial artery connecting to Spalding in Clarendon, has become impassable. The situation stems from relentless heavy rainfall and rapidly rising water levels in the region. Local authorities have issued an urgent advisory, urging the public to seek alternative routes to avoid delays and potential hazards. The police are actively monitoring the situation and have promised to provide timely updates as conditions evolve. This development underscores the broader challenges posed by extreme weather events, which continue to impact transportation infrastructure and daily life across the island.
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Amber Group bets on AI, robotics for next decade
Jamaica-based technology firm Amber Group is positioning itself at the forefront of the next wave of artificial intelligence (AI) innovation, with a strategic focus on robotics and physical AI. CEO Dushyant Savadia unveiled the company’s ambitious plans during a ceremony marking its 10th anniversary at the AC Hotel Kingston. Savadia emphasized the rapid pace of AI advancements, describing generative AI as the first phase of evolution, followed by conversational AI, and now the imminent rise of physical AI. He envisions a future where robotics will autonomously perform tasks across industries, reducing the need for human intervention. Amber Group has already secured distribution agreements with leading robotics companies and established its Amber Robotics subsidiary to train Jamaican staff in robot programming and implementation for various applications, such as cleaning, sweeping, and food delivery. Savadia highlighted global examples, such as robotic surgery in India and Amazon’s automated warehouses, to underscore the transformative potential of physical AI. The company aims to position Jamaica as a global hub for robotics training and development, leveraging its international distribution network to expand services to South Africa, India, and Dubai. Parallel to its robotics venture, Amber Group is spearheading the creation of a Jamaica-specific generative AI model through the newly formed National Artificial Intelligence Lab of Jamaica. This initiative, a collaboration with the University of Technology, HEART/NSTA Trust, and the Ministry of Education, aims to cultivate local expertise in AI and robotics. Savadia outlined plans to train 50 students in AI engineering, with the goal of developing Jamaica’s own large language model (LLM) within a year. He envisions licensing this model to global AI firms, complementing rather than competing with established players like ChatGPT. Prime Minister Andrew Holness endorsed the initiative, emphasizing its role in Jamaica’s economic strategy and the need to upskill the workforce to embrace higher-value opportunities in AI and robotics. Savadia’s vision extends beyond technology, aiming to build a knowledge-based economy where Jamaicans can thrive through innovation and global digital participation.
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UDC urges Jamaicans to prioritise safety during Heroes’ Day weekend
As Jamaica prepares to commemorate Heroes’ Day, the Urban Development Corporation (UDC) is calling on citizens to prioritize safety while traveling, gathering, and exploring the island’s natural attractions. With a surge in motorists and visitors anticipated during the long weekend, the UDC emphasizes the need for heightened vigilance to ensure a joyful and incident-free celebration.
Dena Chatrie, Director of Business Development at the UDC, highlighted the importance of responsible behavior. ‘Our goal is for this weekend to be filled with joy and relaxation, not mishaps,’ she stated. ‘This means making wise decisions, looking out for one another, and adhering to all safety guidelines to ensure everyone returns home safely.’
Popular UDC-managed destinations, including Harmony Beach Park, Dunn’s River Falls and Park, and Reach Falls, are expected to attract large crowds. Reach Falls will host a special ‘Reach and Relax’ event on October 17, offering free entry, entertainment, and local cuisine to encourage Jamaicans to connect with their natural heritage.
While these sites promise unforgettable experiences, the UDC underscores the importance of safety precautions. Visitors are advised to follow lifeguard instructions, stay within designated swimming areas, closely supervise children, and avoid risky behaviors such as excessive alcohol consumption near water. Additionally, the public is reminded to stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, and take regular breaks to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Road safety remains a critical focus, with authorities urging motorists to obey traffic laws, avoid speeding, and never drive under the influence. Pedestrians and cyclists are also encouraged to remain alert and visible, particularly during early morning and evening hours. By adhering to these guidelines, Jamaicans can ensure a safe and enjoyable Heroes’ Day celebration.
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Trump commutes sentence for disgraced ex-congressman George Santos
In a controversial move, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he had commuted the prison sentence of George Santos, a former Republican congressman convicted of wire fraud and identity theft. Santos, who was sentenced to seven years and three months in April, had been incarcerated since July for misusing campaign funds on extravagant personal expenses, including luxury vacations, Botox treatments, and subscriptions to adult websites.
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Mystic India Opens in Panama
What started as a celebrated wedding catering service has now evolved into Panama’s first fine dining Indian restaurant. Mystic India, after nearly a decade of creating unforgettable culinary experiences at grand Indian weddings across Panama, has officially launched its permanent establishment. This new venture offers residents and visitors a unique blend of authentic Indian flavors, artistic presentation, and exceptional hospitality. Since 2014, the Mystic India team has been traveling annually to Panama to cater lavish Indian weddings, earning a reputation for consistency, quality, and unmatched flavor. Their dedication has secured the trust of numerous Indian families who repeatedly invite them to celebrate their most cherished occasions. ‘We’ve had the honour of being invited to cater weddings in Panama for over a decade,’ a spokesperson for Mystic India shared. ‘Each year, our team travels to Panama to create unforgettable culinary experiences. Guests would often ask, ‘Why don’t you open a restaurant in Panama?’’ That opportunity recently arose, and the team seized it, transforming their years of passion and expertise into a permanent culinary landmark. The result is Mystic India, a stunning new restaurant that redefines the perception of Indian cuisine in Panama. With elegant décor, warm service, and an inventive menu, Mystic India has quickly captivated food lovers across the city. The restaurant’s soft opening was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, with a fully booked first night and steady reservations ever since. The buzz continues to grow as the team prepares for its grand opening on October 18, marking a new era for fine dining in Panama City. ‘Mystic India isn’t just about food — it’s about sharing culture, celebration, and connection,’ shared founder Karina Mahbubani. ‘Panama has always welcomed us with open arms during weddings and special events, and now, we’re honoured to make it our home.’ With its blend of traditional recipes, modern presentation, and impeccable consistency, Mystic India promises to be a destination where every meal feels like a celebration.
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Cristiano Ronaldo tops Forbes’ highest-paid footballers list again
PARIS, France (AFP)—Cristiano Ronaldo, the legendary Portuguese footballer, has once again claimed the top spot on Forbes’ list of the highest-paid footballers for the 2025-26 season. This marks the sixth time in the past decade that Ronaldo has led the rankings, solidifying his status as one of the sport’s most lucrative figures. The announcement follows closely on the heels of Bloomberg’s revelation that the 40-year-old has become football’s first billionaire. Ronaldo, who plays for Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, is estimated to earn a staggering $280 million, combining both on-field and off-field earnings. This figure more than doubles that of his closest rival, Lionel Messi, who is projected to earn $130 million, primarily from off-field ventures rather than his on-field contributions to Inter Miami in the United States. The list also features French football icon Karim Benzema, who earns $104 million annually with Saudi club Al Ittihad, and Senegalese forward Sadio Mane, Ronaldo’s teammate at Al Nassr, who takes the eighth spot with an estimated $54 million. Notably, the number of Saudi-based players in the top 10 has decreased by one compared to the previous year, following Brazilian star Neymar’s departure from Al Hilal to return to his childhood club, Santos in Sao Paulo. Neymar, who was third on the list last season with $110 million, now earns a modest $38 million, largely from off-field contracts. Despite the financial might of the English Premier League, which spent a record £2.6 billion ($3.5 billion) on transfers during the summer window, only two players from the league feature in the top 10: Manchester City’s Erling Haaland in fifth place and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah in seventh. Spain’s La Liga, however, boasts the most representatives in the top 10, including three Real Madrid players—Kylian Mbappe (fourth), Vinicius Jr (sixth), and Jude Bellingham (ninth)—alongside Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who rounds out the list in tenth place with $43 million. Forbes highlighted that the combined earnings of the world’s ten highest-paid footballers for the 2025-26 season are estimated at a whopping $945 million.
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‘They don’t want us inside’
In downtown Kingston, Jamaica, a meeting between homeless individuals and local government officials on Wednesday revealed deep-seated resistance to plans aimed at relocating them from Justice Square to shelters. The gathering, held at Marie Atkins Night Shelter on Hanover Street, saw only two individuals express willingness to move permanently, while the majority remained silent or voiced grievances about the shelter’s conditions. Complaints ranged from inadequate food and restrictive policies to alleged verbal abuse by staff. One man recounted, ‘When yuh get di food dem tell wi seh wi haffi leave out,’ while a woman claimed shelter staff often turned them away during rainstorms. Local Government Minister Desmond McKenzie acknowledged the issues, promising to address specific complaints, including the removal of a problematic staff member. However, he also urged the homeless to cooperate, emphasizing the dangers of living on the streets, such as past incidents of violence. McKenzie stressed the need for mutual effort to resolve the situation, warning that indiscipline would not be tolerated. Meanwhile, some shelter residents expressed concerns about newcomers disrupting the facility’s cleanliness and order. The relocation initiative follows repeated calls from citizens and the judiciary, particularly after a recent fire at the court building allegedly caused by a homeless individual. Justice Paulette Williams highlighted the urgency of addressing the issue to prevent further incidents. Despite the challenges, McKenzie and Kingston Mayor Andrew Swaby remain committed to finding solutions, though the homeless population’s reluctance underscores the complexity of the problem.