标签： Jamaica

The racing world witnessed a series of high-profile horse claims across multiple races, with trainers making strategic moves to strengthen their stables. In Race One, trainer Michael Thomas secured horse #3, XY Soul, for owner Errol Dixon from trainer Donovan Russell in a $200,000 deal. Race Two saw trainer Winston McIntosh claim horse #4, Little Grovy Thing, for himself from Norman Smith for $350,000, while Byron Davis acquired horse #9, Jon P, from Donovan Plummer for the same amount. Race Six was marked by even more significant transactions, with Fernando Geddes claiming horse #1, Pappie Don, from Gregg Fennell for $700,000. Adrian Prince secured horse #3, Lucy In The Sky, from Patrick Taylor for the same price, and Joseph Thomas claimed horse #5, She’s MyHedgefund, for Beresford Broadbell from Gresford Smith in another $700,000 deal. These high-stakes claims highlight the competitive nature of the sport and the strategic investments trainers are making to gain an edge.

In a stunning debut, Formalist, a three-year-old chestnut colt, claimed a decisive victory in the $1.05-million Maiden Condition Race at Caymanas Park on Saturday, November 15, 2025. Under the guidance of trainer Jason DaCosta and jockey Robert Halledeen, Formalist showcased exceptional speed and strategy, leading the race from start to finish. He crossed the finish line an impressive 6 ¼ lengths ahead of his competitors, completing the 5-furlong (1,000m) straight in a swift 1:00.0 (24.2 x 47.1).

Formalist, sired by Bold Conquest and out of Miss Formality, demonstrated remarkable pacing and acceleration. After a strong start, he maintained his position with the pack before making a decisive move past the dummy rails. From there, he surged ahead, leaving rivals Nebuchadnezzar and Feeling Free to secure second and third places, respectively. This commanding performance marks Formalist as a rising star in the racing world, with a bright future ahead.

As the Concacaf World Cup Qualifying reaches its climax, all eyes are on the National Stadium in Kingston, where Jamaica and Curacao will clash in a high-stakes match tonight at 8:00 pm. While Jamaica aims to secure their spot in the FIFA World Cup, Curacao stands on the brink of making history. With 11 points in Group B, Curacao leads Jamaica by a single point and needs just a draw to qualify for their first-ever World Cup appearance. This would mark a monumental achievement for the small island nation of 155,000 people, potentially becoming the smallest country to ever qualify for the tournament. Curacao Football Federation President Gilbert Martina expressed his pride in the team’s journey, describing it as “a divine journey” filled with unexpected triumphs. Despite the absence of Head Coach Dick Advocaat, who returned to the Netherlands due to a family emergency, Martina believes the team’s motivation has only intensified. “They’re not only playing for the country, they’re also playing for the coach and his family,” he said. Curacao’s players, many of whom have experience in high-pressure matches across Europe, are expected to remain unfazed by the hostile atmosphere of over 30,000 Jamaican fans. Martina emphasized the significance of this potential qualification, stating it would inspire the island’s youth and prove that even a small nation can achieve big dreams. “The young ones don’t have to look up to Neymar or Messi anymore—they have their own heroes now,” he added. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Curacao’s historic aspirations hanging in the balance.

The recent horse racing event in Jamaica was a spectacular showcase of talent, strategy, and determination, with several notable performances from jockeys and trainers alike. Ryan Darby, a second-generation trainer, made a strong impression with two victories. His first win came with Donalmighty, a 3-1 bet, which finished two lengths ahead in the five-and-a-half furlong opener. Darby’s second triumph was with Green Gold Rush, ridden by jockey Tevin Foster, who secured a win by just over two lengths in the seven-furlong race.

KINGSTON, Jamaica — As the Reggae Boyz gear up for their pivotal World Cup qualifier against Curacao on Tuesday, the Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) is rallying fans to turn the National Stadium into a vibrant sea of yellow, a color symbolizing hope and resilience. This call comes as the nation continues its recovery from the devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa.

JFF President Michael Ricketts emphasized that Tuesday’s match transcends sport, representing a unifying moment for a nation in need of renewal. “This is not just about football. This is about who we are,” Ricketts stated. “When we come together, we create history both on and off the field. The gold in our flag represents the sun, strength, and the promise of a new dawn. By wearing yellow, we send a message to the world that Jamaica will rise again, stronger and full of hope.”

The JFF highlighted that the theme of “rising again” has gained profound significance as Jamaicans support one another in the aftermath of the hurricane. The federation drew parallels to the emotional unity felt during the iconic 1998 Road to France campaign, a historic moment that remains etched in the nation’s memory.

This upcoming match, however, carries unique weight. “Football is playing a vital role in restoring confidence, uplifting communities, and reigniting a sense of possibility across the island,” the JFF noted. The Reggae Boyz, through their determination and resilience, have become emblematic of Jamaica’s ability to overcome adversity.

“The Reggae Boyz embody the strength and spirit of our people,” Ricketts added. “Through football, we remind ourselves that no matter the challenges, Jamaica will always find a way to rise again.”

Beyond the match, the JFF continues to collaborate with local sponsors, international partners, and humanitarian agencies to ensure sustained recovery efforts long after the final whistle blows.

Dane Nelson, a celebrated four-time Jamaican champion jockey, marked a significant milestone in his career by securing his first victory at Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto, Canada. The triumph occurred on Friday, November 14, 2025, in the third race, a CAN$26,200 Claiming event spanning seven furlongs. Nelson rode the four-year-old bay gelding, Computer Hacker, trained by Kerron Palmer, to a decisive win by a length and a half, clocking in at 1:25.0 (23.2 x 47.0 x 1:12.0).

Nelson, visibly elated, expressed his gratitude towards his team and supporters. ‘It’s a really good feeling winning a race here,’ he remarked. ‘The experience and the exposure are great, and I am really happy. Thanks to the connections and the support from everyone,’ he added.

Computer Hacker, with odds of 9-2, demonstrated exceptional performance from the start, breaking well and swiftly taking the lead outside the chute. By the halfway point, the gelding had extended his lead and continued to dominate on the final turn. Nelson’s steady guidance ensured Computer Hacker responded effectively when needed, securing a comfortable victory.

Sparklet, the 6-5 favorite ridden by Xarel Forde, finished in second place, while The New Maybe, under Austin Adams, took third.