ST JAMES, Jamaica—The ISSA Rural Area netball competition resumed on Tuesday with a series of thrilling matches, showcasing the dominance of double defending champions Holmwood Technical. The competition had been paused for nearly a month due to the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa in late October. Holmwood Technical kicked off their campaign with impressive victories in both the Junior and Senior categories, defeating Bishop Gibson High. The Junior team secured a narrow win with a score of 29-27, while the Senior team delivered a staggering 83-2 victory. Old Harbour High also emerged as double winners, triumphing over Tacky High with scores of 20-5 in the Juniors and 44-8 in the Seniors. Additionally, Old Harbour High defeated Charlemont High 18-2 in the Juniors and 44-8 in the Seniors. Kellits High and Central High exchanged victories; Kellits High won the Junior game 9-5, while Central High claimed a 24-19 win in the Seniors. In Montego Bay, Green Pond High secured two wins in the Junior competition, defeating hosts Mt Alvernia High 24-17 and Muschett High 30-9. Mt Alvernia High also achieved a decisive 36-2 victory over Muschett High. Other notable results included Iona High’s double win in the Juniors, beating St Mary Tech 19-9 and Oracabessa High 23-12, while Denbigh High defeated Glenmuir High 35-15 in the Juniors. In the Seniors, St Thomas Technical emerged victorious with a 22-9 win over Yallahs High.
标签： Jamaica
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Tourism leaders unite to fast-track Jamaica’s post-Melissa recovery
OCHO RIOS, St Ann — In the wake of Hurricane Melissa’s devastation, Jamaica is focusing on reviving its tourism sector, a critical pillar of its economy, while expressing profound gratitude for the overwhelming international aid. John Byles, Chairman of the Tourism Recovery Task Force, emphasized the urgency of restoring tourism operations to ensure economic stability and employment for locals. During a recent tour of Ocho Rios led by Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, Byles highlighted the sector’s resilience and unity in crisis management. ‘We are deeply thankful for the aid, but our priority is to get the tourism machinery running again so we can welcome guests as we’ve already started in some areas,’ he stated. Byles, also the executive deputy chairman of Chukka Caribbean Adventures, praised the seamless evacuation of tourists during the hurricane and noted that Ocho Rios, largely unaffected by the storm, has reopened as a first step in recovery. Jessica Shannon, head of the Jamaica Tourism Cares Task Force, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the unprecedented collaboration across industries and sectors. ‘Hand in hand, we rebuild,’ she said, highlighting the collective effort of private and public entities, both domestic and international. Shannon, also the Chief Experience Officer for Sandals Resorts International, revealed that global partners, including hotel brands, airlines, and cruise operators, have offered extensive relief support, from supplies to housing recovery assistance. ‘The goodwill Jamaica has generated is unparalleled,’ she added, citing donations of clothing, generators, and tarpaulins. The united front displayed by Jamaica’s tourism industry underscores its commitment to recovery and its ability to leverage international partnerships in times of crisis.
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Starraura returns in style: 11-length romp wins $1.05-m Maiden Condition Race
In a spectacular display of speed and stamina, Starraura, the Jason DaCosta-trained chestnut filly, marked her return to racing with a commanding win in the $1.05-million Maiden Condition Race for native-bred three-year-old fillies on Saturday, November 22, 2025. After an eight-month hiatus, Starraura, sired by Bold Conquest and out of Little Wasp, left her competitors in the dust, securing an impressive 11-length victory over 5½ furlongs (1,100m). Ridden by jockey Robert “Hardball” Halledeen, she completed the race in a swift 1:10.0, with splits of 24.0, 49.0, and 1:02.3. Starting strong, Starraura initially settled into third place behind Money Mission (Javaniel Patterson) and Moonlight Song (Teneca Wolfe) as they approached the half-mile (800m) turn. However, she quickly caught up to Money Mission, taking the lead at the top of the straight and maintaining her dominance all the way to the finish line. Money Mission and BadBadTanesha (Richie Shakes) trailed behind, unable to challenge Starraura’s relentless pace. This victory not only highlights Starraura’s exceptional talent but also reaffirms Jason DaCosta’s prowess as a trainer and Robert Halledeen’s skill as a jockey.
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Dr Dawes questions ministry’s capacity to confirm leptospirosis cases
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Dr. Alfred Dawes, the Opposition Spokesperson on Health, has expressed significant concerns regarding Jamaica’s capacity to accurately detect and monitor leptospirosis cases in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition, Dr. Dawes emphasized the urgent need for a robust and multifaceted approach to address the rising infections.
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Nigerian doctor invites GOJ to partner on future medical missions
FALMOUTH, Trelawny — Dr. Cliff Eke, President of the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA), has urged the Jamaican Government to establish long-term partnerships to improve healthcare services across the island. Leading a team of eight medical professionals on a recent mission to Jamaica, Dr. Eke emphasized ANPA’s commitment to expanding its support but stressed the need for governmental collaboration to achieve sustainable impact.
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New Zealand’s Williamson returns for opening West Indies Test
In a significant development for New Zealand cricket, veteran batsman Kane Williamson has been named in the 14-man squad for the first Test against the West Indies in Christchurch. This marks Williamson’s return to the red-ball format, adding depth to the batting lineup and leadership group. The squad announcement, made on Monday, also highlighted the recall of pace bowler Blair Tickner, who last featured in a Test match in March 2023. Tickner’s inclusion comes on the back of his stellar performance in the recent ODI series against England, where he claimed eight wickets in two matches. Additionally, the promising seam duo of Jacob Duffy and Zak Foulkes retained their spots following impressive debuts. Foulkes, in particular, made headlines with a nine-wicket haul on his debut against Zimbabwe. Head Coach Rob Walter expressed his enthusiasm about Williamson’s return, emphasizing his on-field prowess and leadership qualities. The squad will be captained by Tom Latham, as Tim Southee continues to be managed through the early part of the home summer. Notably, the selection was made without several key bowlers, including Matt Fisher, Will O’Rourke, and Ben Sears, all sidelined due to injuries. This two-Test series against the West Indies marks New Zealand’s first step in the new 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle. The squads for both teams have been finalized, with New Zealand looking to leverage Williamson’s experience and Tickner’s recent form to secure a strong start to the series.
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WATCH: Fire destroys several homes on Milk Lane
A devastating fire tore through Milk Lane in Denham Town, Kingston, on Tuesday afternoon, leaving several families homeless. The blaze, which erupted around 1:00 pm, originated from one of the houses and quickly engulfed surrounding structures. Fortunately, the swift intervention of the Jamaica Fire Brigade (JFB) contained the fire, preventing it from spreading further.
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Lawyer questions whether Donna-Lee left on illegal vessel
During a high-profile murder trial at the Home Circuit Court in downtown Kingston, a director from the Passport, Immigration, and Citizenship Agency (PICA) testified on Monday that she could not confirm whether Donna-Lee Donaldson, a 24-year-old social media influencer, might have left Jamaica through an illegal port of entry. The director emphasized that PICA’s records only document legal entries and exits, leaving gaps in tracking unauthorized departures. The testimony came during cross-examination by Chadwick Berry, an attorney representing Constable Noel Maitland, who faces charges of murder and preventing the lawful burial of a corpse in connection with Donaldson’s disappearance on July 12, 2022. Donaldson was last seen at Maitland’s apartment in the Chelsea Manor complex in St Andrew, where forensic evidence, including blood matching her DNA, was discovered. Berry questioned the witness about the possibility of Donaldson leaving Jamaica via unconventional means, such as a banana boat or an unregistered aircraft using illegal ports. The director confirmed that such departures would not be reflected in PICA’s computerized border management system, which logs only authorized travel. She also disclosed that Donaldson’s last recorded travel date was March 12, 2021, and provided details about her passport and an alternate name, Donna-Lee Sophia White, which was linked to a child’s passport last used in 2013. The trial continues today.
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JFF ambassador reports record-breaking sponsorship year
The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by securing its largest-ever sponsorship haul for 2025, marking a historic moment for the organization. This accomplishment highlights the growing commercial strength of Jamaican football and the federation’s ambitious Road to 2026 campaign. Tanya Lee Perkins, the JFF Ambassador leading the sponsorship initiative, emphasized that this success reflects increasing corporate confidence in the national football program. Perkins revealed that the federation has garnered unprecedented sponsorship revenue, driven by both long-standing partners like Adidas and Wray & Nephew, and new investments from companies such as Visa, Grace Foods, and Powerade. These partnerships have not only bolstered the team’s preparation for the intercontinental play-offs in March but also enhanced the fan experience through initiatives like the sponsor village, jumbo screens, and upgraded hospitality. The announcement coincided with a record-breaking turnout of over 35,000 fans at the National Stadium, evoking memories of Jamaica’s iconic 1997 World Cup qualification run. Despite falling short in their recent match, the Reggae Boyz remain determined to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Perkins expressed gratitude to fans and sponsors, whose unwavering support has reignited national enthusiasm for football and fueled the team’s journey forward.
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Jimmy Cliff to be accorded official funeral – Grange
The Jamaican Government has announced plans to hold an official funeral for the legendary musician Jimmy Cliff, who passed away on Monday at the age of 81. The announcement was made by Entertainment Minister Olivia Grange during a session in the House of Representatives, where lawmakers paid heartfelt tributes to the iconic artist. Cliff, born James Chambers, reportedly succumbed to pneumonia following a seizure. Grange revealed that Cliff had left specific instructions for his farewell, which will be disclosed to the public in due course. Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness led the tributes, describing Cliff as ‘one of Jamaica’s greatest sons’ and a monumental figure in the nation’s music history. Opposition Leader Mark Golding, Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, and other prominent figures also shared their condolences, reflecting on Cliff’s profound impact on Jamaican culture. Official funerals in Jamaica are typically reserved for high-ranking officials and national heroes, underscoring the significance of this honor. The House also paid tribute to former MP Melford Brown and Jamaica’s Consul General to New York, Alsion Roach Wilson, both of whom recently passed away.