标签: Jamaica

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  • Four-time SIGMA Run champion Garfield Gordon runs with purpose

    Four-time SIGMA Run champion Garfield Gordon runs with purpose

    Jamaican distance runner Garfield Gordon has further cemented his legendary status in national road racing by securing an unprecedented fourth championship victory at the 2026 Sagicor SIGMA Run. The St. Thomas native demonstrated absolute dominance over the 5.5-kilometer course, crossing the finish line in 16 minutes and 57 seconds amidst a record-breaking field of 14,575 participants.

    Gordon’s journey from primary school running programs to four-time SIGMA champion (2020, 2023, 2024, 2026) represents a masterclass in athletic dedication. Beyond his racing accolades, Gordon maintains parallel careers as a professional massage therapist and middle-distance coach at St. George’s College, meticulously balancing pre-dawn training sessions with professional responsibilities.

    His winning strategy involved precisely calibrated effort distribution, pushing aggressively through the initial 5K segment before harnessing residual energy for the final 500 meters. By the 3K mark, Gordon had established an insurmountable lead, later attributing his unchallenged victory to rigorous preparation and strategic confidence.

    The 2026 edition carried enhanced significance through its focus on educational recovery in hurricane-affected western Jamaica. Gordon emphasized that competing for this humanitarian cause provided deeper motivation than personal achievement alone, praising Sagicor’s initiative in supporting displaced students.

    Maintaining a grueling six-day weekly regimen featuring 40-90 minute endurance runs and high-intensity interval training, Gordon’s methodology continues yielding exceptional results. The champion already anticipates upcoming competitions including the Burger King 5K and Kingston City Run while confirming intentions to defend his SIGMA title in 2027.

    For aspiring athletes, Gordon advocates holistic commitment: ‘Train with intention and compete with heart. When you’re running for something bigger than yourself, that extra meaning can push you beyond your limits.’

  • 4.6 magnitude earthquake felt in sections of Jamaica

    4.6 magnitude earthquake felt in sections of Jamaica

    A moderate seismic event registering 4.6 magnitude rattled sections of Jamaica on Sunday morning, causing brief alarm among residents. The tremor occurred at approximately 8:34 a.m. local time, according to official reports from the Earthquake Unit at the University of the West Indies.

    The quake’s epicenter was precisely located approximately 10 kilometers northeast of Stony Hill, St Andrew, placing it in close proximity to the nation’s capital and most densely populated region. Seismologists reported the event originated at a focal depth of 16 kilometers, classifying it as a shallow crustal earthquake.

    While preliminary assessments indicate no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries, the tremor served as a stark reminder of Jamaica’s position within an active seismic zone. The earthquake unit continues to monitor aftershock potential and has urged citizens to maintain earthquake preparedness protocols. The event triggered brief emergency response evaluations across affected parishes, with infrastructure assessments underway in urban centers.

  • What we know about alleged strike on Iran school

    What we know about alleged strike on Iran school

    PARIS, France — Iranian authorities have reported a devastating strike on an elementary school in the southern town of Minab, claiming over 100 fatalities and attributing the attack to the nation’s “enemies.

    The incident allegedly occurred on Saturday at the Shajare Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Hormozgan province, near the strategic Strait of Hormuz shipping route. Iranian state television identified the facility, while verified footage shows a damaged building adorned with colorful educational murals billowing black smoke.

    Conflicting accounts have emerged regarding the casualty figures. The Iranian Red Crescent initially reported 108 deaths, while local governor officials later revised the toll to 165 fatalities as search operations concluded.

    Both United States and Israeli military authorities have denied involvement in any strike operation. Israel’s military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani stated: “At this point not aware of an Israeli or an American strike there… We’re operating in an extremely accurate manner.”

    The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has not provided immediate official comment, though a spokesperson was quoted by The New York Times acknowledging awareness of reports concerning “civilian harm resulting from ongoing military operations” and confirming they “take these reports seriously and are looking into them.”

    Independent verification remains challenging as foreign media organizations require explicit Iranian government approval to report outside Tehran. AFP has geolocated footage to Minab but could not independently verify the nature of the site or the date the footage was filmed.

    Human rights organization Hengaw, based in Norway, has launched an investigation into the identities of the allegedly killed students. The group reported approximately 170 students were present during the school’s morning session when the incident occurred.

  • Caribbean countries react to US-Israel war against Iran

    Caribbean countries react to US-Israel war against Iran

    BRIDGETOWN, Barbados — Multiple Caribbean Community (Caricom) member states have voiced profound concern regarding the dangerous escalation of military hostilities in the Middle East, following coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran. The attacks, which reportedly resulted in significant casualties according to Iranian state media, have prompted calls for restraint and a return to diplomatic channels from several Caribbean governments.

    The initial military action was justified by Washington and Tel Aviv as a necessary response to perceived threats from Iran. In retaliation, Iranian forces launched missile volleys toward both Israel and several Gulf states housing U.S. military installations. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the U.S.-Israeli operation as an ‘unprovoked, illegal and absolutely illegitimate’ act of aggression.

    Regional responses from the Caribbean have emphasized the critical importance of international law and peaceful conflict resolution. The government of Antigua and Barbuda, through Prime Minister Gaston Browne, expressed deep concern about the rapid deterioration of stability, stating that attacks on nations not directly involved in a conflict represent a serious breach of international law. Browne emphasized unwavering support for national sovereignty and called for maximum restraint from all parties.

    Guyana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a statement condemning what it described as Iran’s ‘unprovoked attack’ on Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Kuwait, characterizing these actions as unjustified and in violation of international law. The Guyanese government called for immediate de-escalation to preserve regional peace and stability.

    Trinidad and Tobago’s government initially posted a statement on its Caricom and Foreign Affairs ministry website expressing support for U.S. and Israeli actions aimed at preventing ‘oppressive regimes’ from acquiring nuclear capabilities. However, the statement was subsequently withdrawn, creating ambiguity about the country’s official position.

    Jamaica has taken practical measures by issuing a travel advisory urging its citizens to avoid the Middle East and advising those already in the region to exercise extreme vigilance and shelter in place as conditions require.

    The collective Caribbean response aligns with calls from United Nations Secretary-General for renewed diplomatic engagement to prevent further deterioration of the situation and uphold the rule of law in international relations.

  • Trump says ‘we expect casualties’ after three US service members die

    Trump says ‘we expect casualties’ after three US service members die

    PALM BEACH, United States — In a series of interviews from his Florida resort, President Donald Trump addressed the ongoing military engagement with Iran, acknowledging the loss of American lives while framing the conflict as strategically beneficial. The comments came following a Pentagon announcement confirming three US service members were killed and five seriously wounded during strikes targeting the Islamic Republic.

    Speaking with NBC News, the President characterized the casualties as an anticipated consequence of military action. “We have three, but we expect casualties, but in the end it’s going to be a great deal for the world,” Trump stated. He further elaborated to the Daily Mail, referring to the fallen soldiers as “great people” and noting that such losses were “unfortunately” expected and could potentially recur.

    The operation, which has reportedly resulted in the deaths of Iran’s supreme leader and numerous high-ranking government and military figures, was described by Trump as progressing “ahead of schedule.” He revealed that communication channels between Iranian and US officials remain active, though he provided no specific details regarding these discussions.

    Contradictory remarks emerged regarding diplomatic outreach, however. While acknowledging ongoing talks in one interview, Trump told the Daily Mail that Iranian officials “want to talk, but I said you should have talked last week not this week.” The President projected the military campaign would extend approximately four weeks, citing Iran’s substantial size as a factor in the timeline, while suggesting operations could conclude sooner.

    The White House had not issued an official statement on the casualties for five hours following the initial announcement by US Central Command on Sunday morning.

  • West Indies post 195-4 against India in T20 World Cup do-or-die clash

    West Indies post 195-4 against India in T20 World Cup do-or-die clash

    In a dramatic reversal of fortunes at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, the West Indies cricket team posted a formidable total of 195-4 against India in their crucial Super Eights finale at the ICC T20 World Cup on Sunday. The Caribbean side, having been asked to bat first, unleashed a devastating assault in the final overs to keep their tournament hopes alive.

    The match witnessed strategic innovation from the West Indies management, who surprisingly promoted Test captain Roston Chase to open alongside T20 skipper Shai Hope. This tactical move allowed the inclusion of additional spinner Akeal Hosein, with regular opener Brandon King being omitted from the lineup. The reimagined opening partnership proved substantially more resilient than their previous performance against South Africa, where they had collapsed to 83-7.

    Chase and Hope established a solid foundation with a 68-run partnership before Hope was bowled by spinner Varun Chakravarthy for 32, triggering an explosive response from the capacity crowd of 67,000. The momentum continued with Shimron Hetmyer’s rapid 27 off just 12 deliveries before he fell to a barely detectable edge off Jasprit Bumrah.

    The game’s critical turning point arrived when Sherfane Rutherford departed cheaply, bringing together Jason Holder and Rovman Powell at the crease. The duo orchestrated a breathtaking counterattack, plundering 70 runs from the final five overs in an unbroken fifth-wicket stand of 76. Powell finished unbeaten on 34 from 19 balls, while Holder remained not out on 37 from 22 deliveries, their partnership featuring five sixes and five fours collectively.

    India’s fielding performance proved uncharacteristically substandard, with three straightforward catches going down, including a reprieve for Chase when he had scored only 15 runs. The defending champions now face the challenging task of chasing 196 runs to advance in the tournament.

    The victor of this high-stakes encounter will progress to face England in Mumbai on Thursday for a semi-final berth, while the defeated team will be eliminated from competition. Earlier on Sunday, tournament favorites South Africa maintained their unbeaten record with a five-wicket victory over Zimbabwe, securing their place against New Zealand in Wednesday’s first semi-final, with the championship final scheduled for Ahmedabad next Sunday.

  • Opposition leader Machado eyes Venezuela return in coming weeks

    Opposition leader Machado eyes Venezuela return in coming weeks

    Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado has declared her intention to return to her homeland within weeks, ending a prolonged period of exile that included her travel to Oslo to accept the Nobel Peace Prize. The announcement comes during a critical political transition in the South American nation, which has seen significant governmental changes following the ousting of former leader Nicolas Maduro.

    The 58-year-old politician made her declaration through a video message distributed across her social media platforms, stating: “I will return in a few weeks to Venezuela. We will arrive to embrace one another, to work together, to ensure an orderly, sustainable and unstoppable transition to democracy.”

    Machado’s return will occur under the administration of Interim President Delcy Rodriguez, who assumed leadership after U.S. forces removed Maduro from power two months ago. The Venezuelan government had previously designated Machado as a fugitive from justice, alleging she advocated for military intervention against the nation.

    During her exile, the opposition leader maintained a significant presence in the United States, where she engaged with high-level officials including President Donald Trump at the White House. Their January meeting occurred shortly after Maduro’s extraction to New York for judicial proceedings. Machado has also conducted discussions with U.S. legislators, business executives, and numerous foreign dignitaries.

    Despite Trump’s expressed interest in involving Machado in Venezuela’s political restructuring, his administration has simultaneously supported Rodriguez’s interim governance. Machado faced electoral barriers when prohibited from participating in the 2024 presidential race, followed by extended concealment due to post-election repression after Maduro’s disputed reelection claim.

  • Trump says 48 Iranian ‘leaders’ killed in US attack

    Trump says 48 Iranian ‘leaders’ killed in US attack

    PALM BEACH, United States — President Donald Trump characterized the ongoing military offensive against Iran as “very positive” during televised interviews on Sunday, asserting that coordinated U.S.-Israeli airstrikes had successfully eliminated 48 high-ranking Iranian figures. The operations, which commenced on Saturday, were described by the President as a mission to dismantle the Islamic Republic’s leadership and degrade its military capabilities.

    In an interview with Fox News, Trump proclaimed, “Nobody can believe the success we’re having. Forty-eight leaders are gone in one shot. And it’s moving along rapidly.” He reiterated this sentiment in a separate discussion with CNBC, stating the campaign was progressing “ahead of schedule” and was being conducted for the benefit of “not just for us but for the world.”

    These statements preceded an official announcement from U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) revealing the first American casualties of the conflict. Three service members were killed, five sustained serious injuries, and several others received minor wounds. In a significant naval engagement, CENTCOM also confirmed the sinking of an Iranian warship at a dock in the Gulf of Oman.

    The Iranian government has officially confirmed the death of its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, marking a pivotal development in the rapidly escalating situation. President Trump’s optimistic assessment stands in contrast to the emerging human cost and the potential for further regional destabilization.

  • Realtors welcome gov’t water infrastructure upgrades to boost real estate development

    Realtors welcome gov’t water infrastructure upgrades to boost real estate development

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s real estate sector has enthusiastically endorsed the government’s ambitious water infrastructure modernization plan, recognizing it as a transformative catalyst for property development. The Realtors Association of Jamaica (RAJ) formally announced its support following detailed presentations by Minister of Water and Climate Change Matthew Samuda during the association’s leadership breakfast at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel on February 26.

    The event, which simultaneously launched RAJ’s 60th anniversary celebrations, revealed comprehensive details of the government’s Water Vision 2030 initiative. Central to this strategy are three critical infrastructure projects: construction of a new Hermitage Dam in St. Andrew, significant expansion of the Mona Reservoir’s capacity, and comprehensive upgrades to the water distribution network throughout the Kingston Metropolitan Area.

    Minister Samuda provided concrete progress updates, confirming that initial engineering phases for the new Hermitage Dam have been completed. “We anticipate finalizing transaction designs and procurement processes within the coming twelve months,” the minister declared to industry leaders.

    RAJ President Gabrielle Gilpin-Hudson characterized the infrastructure initiative as pivotal for Jamaica’s development trajectory. “We stand at the threshold of a transformative era where water infrastructure serves as the fundamental enabler for progress,” she stated. “For decades, our island’s potential in housing, agriculture, and comprehensive development has remained constrained by inadequate water access. Now we have both a viable timeline and clear implementation pathway—precisely what the market has awaited.”

    The minister additionally disclosed plans for upgrading the Soapberry sewage treatment facility to tertiary-level processing standards, supporting broader environmental objectives to restore Kingston Harbour’s ecological status as a blue-water body. Gilpin-Hudson emphasized the economic implications: “A revitalized harbor would initiate an entirely new developmental chapter for downtown Kingston, potentially positioning Jamaica among the world’s premier waterfront cities.”

    The RAJ leadership highlighted how reliable water access directly supports the Corporate Area’s evolving skyline, where multi-story residential and commercial developments require robust infrastructure. These government initiatives are viewed as essential foundations for sustainable development, affordable housing expansion, and enhanced economic vitality nationwide.

    Looking toward the future, the RAJ reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening public-private collaborations under its 60th anniversary theme: “Strengthening Partnerships for a More Efficient, Transparent and Sustainable Real Estate Sector.” Gilpin-Hudson concluded: “We remain open to collaborative engagement with all stakeholders—both private and public sectors—to advance Jamaica’s transition toward a first-world real estate market.”

    The leadership breakfast featured additional presentations from key financial and regulatory figures, including Yvett Anderson of Bank of Nova Scotia Jamaica Ltd (event sponsor), Hyacinth Picart of the National Land Agency, Andrew James of the Real Estate Board, and Dayton Wood of the Jamaica Developers Association.

  • WATCH: Denham Town welcomes new streetlights after killing of 3-y-o boy

    WATCH: Denham Town welcomes new streetlights after killing of 3-y-o boy

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A comprehensive community safety initiative is underway in Denham Town, bringing renewed optimism to residents following the tragic shooting that claimed the life of three-year-old Zaylon Pinnock and his father. The multipronged approach includes the installation and repair of dozens of streetlights, increased security presence, and community engagement programs.

    Local Councillor Delon Gayle confirmed that Jamaica Public Service crews have successfully restored 25-30 streetlights across the neighborhood, with additional new installations in previously unlit areas. The infrastructure improvement addresses what residents described as dangerously dark conditions that hampered nighttime visibility and security.

    “The streets were practically jet black before this intervention,” Gayle stated, noting that tree pruning around light fixtures has further enhanced illumination. “This represents a crucial step toward restoring public confidence and safety after the devastating incident.”

    Security reinforcements from the Jamaica Constabulary Force and Jamaica Defence Force have established a noticeable presence in the community, operating under a 72-hour curfew implemented after the shooting. Gayle expressed gratitude for residents’ cooperation with law enforcement and commended the security forces for their increased visibility.

    Beyond infrastructure and security measures, community initiatives including neighborhood clean-up exercises and children’s playdates are in progress. Resident Marine expressed relief at the improvements: “I was praying for the streetlights to be fixed. Now I can see clearly across and walk comfortably—this has made a tremendous difference.”

    The safety campaign follows the October 18th tragedy where gunmen posing as customers opened fire on a Nelson Street residence, fatally wounding young Zaylon Pinnock and injuring his father Kerrio Pinnock, 31, and another child. Kerrio Pinnock subsequently succumbed to his injuries in hospital, compounding the community’s trauma.