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  • Nia Robinson, Shaquena Foote set personal best in indoor meets

    Nia Robinson, Shaquena Foote set personal best in indoor meets

    Jamaican track and field athletes delivered exceptional performances at major indoor meets across the United States on Friday, with Nia Robinson and Shaquena Foote achieving world-class results that positioned them among the global elite in their respective events.

    At the prestigious Tyson Invitational held at the University of Arkansas, Robinson soared to a remarkable personal best of 6.82 meters in the women’s long jump championship, securing third place overall. This impressive leap not only shattered her previous record of 6.67 meters but also tied her for the fifth-best jump globally this season. The competition saw American jumper Jasmine Moore claim victory with a mark of 6.86 meters, while Robinson shared an identical distance with second-place finisher Sophia Beckmon.

    Simultaneously at Clemson University’s Tiger Paw Invitational, Shaquena Foote of the University of Georgia demonstrated exceptional speed in the women’s 400 meters, clocking a lifetime best of 51.27 seconds to win the event. Her performance ranks as the ninth-fastest in the world this season and represents the seventh-best time ever recorded by a Jamaican woman, matching Leah Anderson’s achievement. Foote’s teammate, DeJanea Oakley, complemented this success with a third-place finish in 51.62 seconds.

    The meets showcased additional standout performances from Caribbean and American athletes. World and Olympic medalist Tajay Gayle placed fourth in the men’s long jump with 8.13 meters, while Louisiana State’s Jordan Turner finished seventh at 8.11 meters. In field events, Purdue University’s Brittania Johnson won the women’s weight throw with a personal best of 20.96 meters.

    Sprint events featured notable achievements including University of Florida’s Gabrielle Matthews winning the college women’s 60m in a personal best 7.19 seconds, and St. Lucia’s Julien Alfred setting a meet record of 6.99 seconds in the Women’s 60m Championships, where Jamaica’s Brianna Lyston claimed third with 7.07 seconds.

  • HYATT BETS ON JAMAICA REBOUND

    HYATT BETS ON JAMAICA REBOUND

    Global hospitality giant Hyatt Hotels Corporation has projected significant financial setbacks from Hurricane Melissa’s impact on its Jamaican operations, anticipating up to $20 million in adjusted EBITDA losses for 2026. The Chicago-based company revealed during its recent earnings call that eight all-inclusive resorts will remain closed through November 2026, resulting in approximately $15 million in lost gross booking fees.

    President and CEO Mark Hoplamazian characterized the disruption as a temporary setback rather than a permanent impairment of assets. “We’re going to take a hit in 2026,” Hoplamazian acknowledged, while expressing strong confidence in Jamaica’s recovery prospects. “2027 presents an opportunity to far exceed our original underwriting for these properties.”

    The delayed reopening timeline strategically positions Hyatt to capitalize on the 2027 winter tourism season with fully renovated properties. The company’s expanded Jamaican portfolio stems from its $2.6 billion acquisition of Playa Hotels & Resorts in June 2025, which added 1,203 rooms across four properties to its existing 899 rooms from the Apple Leisure Group acquisition.

    Hoplamazian praised the Jamaican government’s reconstruction efforts, noting rapid infrastructure restoration and regulatory support including waived import duties on building materials. All affected properties have filed business interruption insurance claims, though reimbursement timelines remain uncertain according to CFO Joan Bottarini.

    The hurricane’s financial impact previously prompted Hyatt to reduce its 2025 EBITDA outlook for Playa by $10 million. Despite near-term challenges, leadership remains optimistic about Jamaica’s long-term potential, with Hoplamazian noting the government’s commitment to preserving tourism-dependent jobs through extensive recovery efforts.

  • WATCH: Grange, Downswell praise U-17 Reggae Boyz after World Cup qualification

    WATCH: Grange, Downswell praise U-17 Reggae Boyz after World Cup qualification

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s national under-17 football team, the Young Reggae Boyz, has achieved a monumental sporting milestone by qualifying for the FIFA U-17 World Cup following a decisive 3-1 triumph against Canada. The crucial Concacaf Group G showdown in Alajuela, Costa Rica, saw Jamaica overcome their ten-man opponents to complete a perfect group stage campaign with maximum points from three matches.

    The team’s flawless performance throughout the qualifying phase, which included previous victories against Aruba and the Cayman Islands, has secured their passage to the global tournament scheduled for Qatar this November.

    Jamaican Sports Minister Olivia Grange conveyed profound national pride in the team’s accomplishment, emphasizing the significance of governmental investment in athletic development. “When our footballers excel, it validates our investment and demonstrates the strength of our developmental programs,” Minister Grange stated. “These young athletes’ achievement at such an age provides tremendous motivation and indicates a promising future for Jamaican football.”

    Minister Grange further highlighted the broader social impact of the team’s success, noting football’s role as a powerful community intervention tool. “These young men become role models in their communities, inspiring others to pursue sporting excellence. Their achievements resonate beyond the pitch, fostering positive social change and community pride.”

    The government has committed to continuing its support for the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF), particularly for teams qualifying for international competitions. “We consistently provide substantial support to the JFF for qualification preparations and international participation,” Minister Grange affirmed.

    Head Coach Wendell Downswell described the qualification as a historic achievement for Jamaican football. “I am absolutely ecstatic about this historic accomplishment—qualifying for another U-17 World Cup is tremendous,” Downswell expressed. He attributed the success to meticulous preparation and strategic planning, noting the team overcame significant seeding disadvantages against higher-ranked opponents.

    Looking toward the World Cup in Qatar, Coach Downswell emphasized the importance of structured preparation. “We await the tournament draw to finalize our preparatory structure. We will focus on physical conditioning and tactical composition to ensure our team is optimally prepared for the global stage,” he added.

  • Barnaby’s triumphant return: A testament to perseverance

    Barnaby’s triumphant return: A testament to perseverance

    In a stunning display of resilience, the five-year-old American-bred bay horse Barnaby captured the prestigious Lloyd Lindbergh “Lindy” Delapenha Memorial Trophy on February 8, 2026. The victory marked an extraordinary comeback following a challenging six-month layoff that nearly ended the thoroughbred’s racing career.

    Under the expert guidance of champion jockey Raddesh “Sneaky Fox” Roman, Barnaby demonstrated remarkable determination in the Overnight Allowance contest for three-year-olds and upward. The pair executed a perfectly timed maneuver in the final stretch, overtaking stablemate Neo Star by three-parts of a length to complete the one-mile (1,600m) course in 1:39.2. Rainsville secured third position in the $1.25-million event.

    The emotional triumph brought trainer Anthony “Baba” Nunes to tears as he witnessed his charge’s victorious return. “The victory represents far more than just winning—it symbolizes Barnaby’s incredible journey back to competitive racing,” Nunes expressed, his voice filled with palpable emotion. “We faced the very real possibility of losing him six months ago. Simply having him return to the track constituted a personal victory for our entire team.”

    Jockey Roman praised the colt’s exceptional performance despite encountering difficulties during the race. “Barnaby possesses that special quality of delivering his best when it matters most,” Roman noted. “Although we experienced some interference that affected his stride, his response when asked for maximum effort in the final stretch was nothing short of extraordinary.”

    The victory celebration highlighted the dedication of Nunes’ training team and the support of multiple owners, including Mr. Kerr, who owns stablemate Neo Star. The race demonstrated the depth of talent within Nunes’ stable and the extraordinary bond between thoroughbred athletes and their caretakers.

  • Racers World champions to make seasonal debuts at Camperdown Classic

    Racers World champions to make seasonal debuts at Camperdown Classic

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Ashenheim Stadium is poised to witness an extraordinary convergence of track and field excellence this Saturday as multiple world champions prepare for their highly anticipated seasonal debuts at the Camperdown Classic.

    In a surprising strategic move, Oblique Seville, the reigning 100m world champion, is set to contest the men’s 400m event. This places him on a potential collision course with his Racers Track Club teammate Antonio Watson, who captured the 400m world title in 2023. This unconventional distance choice for Seville adds a compelling narrative to the meet’s opening events.

    The quarter-mile event transforms into a showcase of elite talent with the participation of former Kingston College standout Tahj Marques White, now representing Racers. White brings a formidable personal best of 45.84 seconds to the competition. The field intensifies further with the inclusion of Delano Kennedy (Uptimum), who boasts an impressive 44.74-second personal best, alongside Malik James-King (Titan), British sprint sensation Zharnel Hughes (Racers), Jermy Bembridge (Racers), and Nickecoy Bramwell from Calabar High.

    Simultaneously, the sprint events gain significant momentum with Bouwahjgie Nkrumie’s debut in both the 60m and 100m dashes. The former Kingston College athlete, now with Racers, carries the weight of expectation as Jamaica’s next great sprint prodigy. Nkrumie’s explosive starting technique positions him as a particular threat in the 60m event, complemented by his status as the current Champs 100m record holder with a blistering 9.99-second performance.

    The shortened sprint event will also feature world 200m bronze medalist Bryan Levell (Uptimum), who enters competition with an early-season personal best of 6.54 seconds. The starting blocks will additionally include Adrian Kerr (Dynamic Speed), alongside Roshawn Clarke and Dejour Russell, both representing Swept Track Club.

  • Valiant to serve dancehall in Colorado Springs for first-ever live show

    Valiant to serve dancehall in Colorado Springs for first-ever live show

    Colorado’s music scene is poised for an unprecedented infusion of authentic Jamaican culture as dancehall sensation Valiant prepares for his inaugural performance in the state on February 21st. The event, dubbed ‘Dis A Reggae’, represents a significant milestone in expanding Caribbean musical traditions beyond traditional East Coast markets.

    Event organizer Eton Pearcy of Jamrock Events revealed in an exclusive interview that response to Valiant’s Colorado debut has generated extraordinary anticipation. ‘The reaction has been overwhelmingly positive,’ Pearcy stated. ‘Colorado’s growing entertainment landscape has historically received limited attention from dancehall artists, making this performance particularly significant for cultural expansion.’

    While the event’s title suggests a reggae focus, Pearcy emphasized the curated experience will showcase Jamaica’s complete musical spectrum. ‘We intentionally present Jamaican culture holistically,’ he explained. ‘While distinctions exist between reggae and dancehall, both represent authentic Caribbean cultural products. Valiant embodies the modern evolution of this rich tradition.’

    The event carries significance beyond entertainment, serving as a fundraiser for Pearcy’s Partial Incentives Breakfast Programme targeting his alma mater, Windward Road Primary School. This initiative continues Jamrock Events’ tradition of community support, with Pearcy noting Valiant’s enthusiasm for both entertaining fans and supporting educational causes.

    Timed strategically during the post-Valentine’s period, the event promises to deliver a ‘dancehall love story’ experience for attendees. Pearcy highlighted Colorado’s underappreciated appreciation for Caribbean culture, noting that despite fewer Caribbean residents than coastal regions, the state demonstrates remarkable cultural awareness and support.

    The success of previous events, including Sould-out show with Sizzla Kalonji last August, demonstrates Colorado’s readiness for authentic Jamaican cultural experiences. Pearcy attributes this to the state’s diverse population of seasonal workers, military personnel, and genuine culture enthusiasts who consistently support quality representations of Caribbean traditions.

  • Trump says he will visit Venezuela as US waives oil sanctions

    Trump says he will visit Venezuela as US waives oil sanctions

    WASHINGTON (AFP)—In a significant shift in U.S. policy toward Venezuela, President Donald Trump revealed his intention to visit the South American nation while expressing strong approval for its interim leadership. The announcement coincided with a major sanctions relief initiative by his administration, permitting five global energy corporations to resume operations in Venezuela’s oil sector.

    Speaking to journalists on Friday, President Trump confirmed his travel plans, stating, “I’m going to make a visit to Venezuela,” though he noted that specific dates remained undetermined. This development follows this week’s diplomatic mission to Caracas by U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, marking the highest-level American official to visit since the Trump administration initiated actions against socialist leader Nicolas Maduro in January.

    The Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued comprehensive licenses to industry giants BP, Chevron, Eni, Repsol, and Shell, authorizing their renewed engagement in Venezuela’s oil and gas operations under specific conditions. These permissions represent the most substantial sanctions relief since the 2019 embargo that crippled Venezuela’s energy exports.

    The newly established framework mandates that all oil and gas royalty payments be directed to U.S. Treasury-designated accounts, aligning with the administration’s position that Washington will oversee Venezuelan assets for the nation’s benefit. A secondary OFAC license enables companies to negotiate potential investment contracts, though participation remains prohibited for several nations including China, Iran, and Russia.

    Administration officials have been unequivocal in characterizing Washington’s role as managing Venezuela’s petroleum resources for the foreseeable future. Energy Secretary Wright emphasized that the U.S. oil embargo was “essentially over” and called for a “dramatic increase” in Venezuela’s production to improve job opportunities, wages, and quality of life for Venezuelan citizens.

    The policy shift follows cooperative efforts from interim leader Delcy Rodriguez, who has received praise from Trump administration officials for implementing rapid legal reforms to Venezuela’s hydrocarbons sector. Chevron, the sole U.S. company maintaining operations in Venezuela after competitors’ departures, welcomed the sanctions relief and legal changes as “important steps toward enabling the further development of Venezuela’s resources.”

    Venezuela’s oil production has shown modest recovery, reaching 1.2 million barrels daily in 2025 compared to the historic low of approximately 360,000 barrels in 2020, though still substantially below its peak capacity of 3.0 million barrels per day achieved twenty-five years prior.

  • ‘9 to 5 no longer enough’: Seiveright urges UWI students to embrace AI

    ‘9 to 5 no longer enough’: Seiveright urges UWI students to embrace AI

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A senior Jamaican government official has issued a compelling call for the nation’s youth to transcend conventional employment paradigms and aggressively pursue technological proficiency in response to evolving global economic realities. Delano Seiveright, Minister of State in the Ministry of Industry, Investment and Commerce, addressed student entrepreneurs at the Pelican Pitch Series: Entrepreneurship Forum at The University of the West Indies, Mona campus, challenging entrenched notions about career development.

    Seiveright delivered a stark assessment of traditional employment models, asserting that the familiar 9-to-5 framework is increasingly inadequate amid rising living expenses, intensified global competition, and transformative shifts in work structures. He revealed that major corporations are progressively deemphasizing rigid academic qualifications in favor of demonstrable capabilities, emotional intelligence, operational efficiency, and proven learning agility.

    The minister presented artificial intelligence as a fundamental disruptive force across professional landscapes, detailing how AI tools now execute sophisticated text analysis, generate complex documentation, facilitate programming tasks, and automate customer service operations. He observed that established sectors including legal services and marketing are undergoing profound transformation, with routine functions becoming automated while strategic judgment and creative direction gain premium value.

    Global technology investments provide compelling evidence of AI’s escalating significance, with annual capital expenditures reaching hundreds of billions of US dollars and multi-year projections approaching trillions—clear indicators that AI is evolving into essential economic infrastructure.

    Seiveright positioned Jamaica advantageously within this technological revolution, citing the nation’s macroeconomic stability, financial system reforms, robust digital connectivity, and favorable trade agreements as foundational elements for international business expansion. He specifically advocated leveraging diaspora networks and regional market strategies for growth beyond domestic boundaries.

    The minister emphasized linguistic skills as critical competitive advantages, urging students to acquire Spanish for accessing Latin America’s 650-million consumer market while recommending Mandarin and other globally significant languages. He further encouraged breaking social and professional isolation by participating in unfamiliar events and building diverse networks, citing historically successful business communities that thrive through strong relational ecosystems.

    Practical resources were directed to the Ministry’s official portal (MIIC.gov.jm) offering guidance on business formation, export preparation, intellectual property safeguards, and connections to support institutions including the Jamaica Business Development Corporation. Additionally, Seiveright promoted engagement with international freelance platforms like Fiverr and Upwork to develop global income streams, build professional portfolios, and create financial resilience alongside entrepreneurial ventures or primary employment.

    The Pelican Pitch Series, collaboratively presented by the Mona Guild and the Office of Entrepreneurship and Opportunities at UWI Mona, represents institutional efforts to equip student innovators with practical methodologies for transforming concepts into globally competitive enterprises.

  • BGLC donates generator to Roger Clarke High to help restore normalcy

    BGLC donates generator to Roger Clarke High to help restore normalcy

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Three months after Hurricane Melissa’s devastating passage, educational normalcy is gradually returning to Roger Clarke High School in Balaclava, St Elizabeth, thanks to a critical generator donation from the Betting Gaming and Lotteries Commission (BGLC).

    The Category 5 hurricane made landfall on October 28, 2025, unleashing catastrophic damage across Jamaica’s western regions. The school community in Balaclava suffered particularly severe infrastructure damage and prolonged power disruption that persisted for over three months.

    Principal George Lewis described the transformative impact of the generator donation: “It has helped to transform school life considerably. Students, teachers, parents and the community as a whole are very appreciative.”

    Following the November 17 phased reopening, the school initially welcomed back only 30% of its student body—prioritizing Grades 11-13 cohorts preparing for critical exit examinations. The power shortage presented particular challenges for technical subjects requiring electricity, including computer courses, information technology, and engineering drawings essential for School-Based Assessments.

    “Most of our students do not have computers at home,” Lewis explained, “so there’s a reliance on what is being provided here at Roger Clarke High.”

    The generator currently powers administrative offices and a computer laboratory, while also providing reliable electricity for uniform pressing—a practical necessity despite the gradual restoration of Balaclava’s main power grid, which continues to experience fluctuations.

    BGLC Communication Manager Wendy Robertson emphasized the broader significance of power restoration: “At BGLC, we understand that restoring power is about more than electricity—it’s about restoring access to education, stability and hope.”

    Executive Director Vitus Evans reinforced the regulatory body’s commitment to community support during crises: “As a national regulator, BGLC recognizes its responsibility to support communities in times of crisis. This generator represents our commitment to education continuity and to helping affected schools recover stronger after Hurricane Melissa.”

  • Adidas unveils Marley-inspired Jamaica home and away kits

    Adidas unveils Marley-inspired Jamaica home and away kits

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a groundbreaking fusion of sport and music culture, adidas has officially launched its collaborative Bob Marley Collection, featuring Jamaica’s 2026 home and away football kits. This innovative line represents a profound synthesis of athletic heritage and the enduring cultural legacy of the iconic reggae musician.

    Developed through an intimate creative partnership with The Bob Marley Foundation, the collection demonstrates meticulous attention to historical authenticity. Archival photographs and vintage tour garments from Marley’s personal wardrobe served as direct inspiration, most notably the legendary lilac firebird track pants worn during his European tours, which have been artistically reimagined for contemporary wear.

    The Reggae Boyz, Jamaica’s national football team, modeled the collection which showcases a distinctive, flowing wave pattern throughout its designs. According to adidas, this visual motif serves as a symbolic bridge connecting the rhythmic essence of Marley’s music with the vibrant spirit of Jamaican culture.

    Central to the collection is the empowering “Football is Freedom” mantra, co-created with The Bob Marley Foundation. This philosophy is prominently displayed on key items including the golden yellow jersey and full-zip jacket, embodying Marley’s profound passion for football and his conviction in the sport’s capacity for liberation and unity.

    The comprehensive collection features standout pieces such as the signature “Football Freedom” jersey, a complete tracksuit with matching jacket and pants, alongside a diverse range of apparel including dresses, T-shirts, shorts, and complementary accessories.

    Sam Handy, General Manager at adidas, reflected on the creative process: “Bob Marley’s enduring legacy provided boundless inspiration. Collaborating with The Bob Marley Foundation to examine historical photographs and original tour clothing was an extraordinary privilege that ultimately guided us in creating a apparel range that honors his music, football passion, and Jamaican spirit.”

    Cedella Marley, Chief Executive Officer of The Bob Marley Foundation, emphasized the cultural significance of the partnership: “This collaboration transcends conventional branding—it represents a landmark moment celebrating unity, inspiration, and the global embodiment of Bob Marley’s spirit. His steadfast belief in the power of our people endures through this collection, enabling fans worldwide to carry Jamaica’s pride.”

    The adidas x Bob Marley collection is currently available for purchase worldwide through adidas.com and select retail partners.