Peters Secures Podium Finish in Brussels Diamond League Javelin

by Michael Bascombe

BRUSSELS, August 22, 2025 - Grenada’s javelin star Anderson Peters produced another strong performance on Friday, finishing third in the Men’s Javelin Throw at the Brussels Diamond League in Belgium.

The two-time World Champion showed consistency throughout the competition, registering five of his six throws beyond the 83-metre mark. His best effort came on his sixth and final attempt, measuring 85.17 metres, which secured his spot on the podium.

The competition was fierce, with Julian Weber of Germany claiming victory with a throw of 89.65m, while 2012 Olympic champion Keshorn Walcott of Trinidad & Tobago secured second place at 86.30m.

For Peters, the performance was another reminder of his elite standing in global athletics. The Grenadian, who stormed onto the international stage by winning back-to-back World Championship titles

titles in 2019 and 2022, has continued to battle his way back to top form following setbacks due to injuries. His showing in Brussels is the latest in a series of steady performances this season, keeping him among the world’s best as athletes build momentum toward upcoming global meets.

The Brussels stop is part of the Wanda Diamond League series, which brings together the top names in track and field. Peters’ third-place finish reinforces the Caribbean’s growing impact in the field events, with Walcott joining him on the podium.

As the season winds down, Peters will look to maintain his sharpness and remain a podium threat, with eyes already turning toward next month’s world championships.

Progress Park Lights to Transform St Andrew’s Sporting Landscape

by Michael Bascombe

Grenada, August 21, 2025 – The long-awaited installation of lights at Progress Park, the premier sporting facility in the parish of St Andrew, is finally underway. Engineers were seen this week mounting the towering light structures, signalling the Government of Grenada’s fulfilment of a commitment made to enhance the island’s sporting infrastructure.

The development is being hailed as a historic moment for the people of St. Andrew — affectionately known as the “Big Parish” — and especially for the athletes and community groups who have relied on Progress Park for decades. Until now, the venue has been limited to hosting events during daylight hours, which has restricted opportunities for both sports and cultural activities.

With the addition of lighting, the ground will now be capable of staging night cricket, football, athletics, and community festivals, opening a new era for the facility and the wider parish.

“With the long-awaited Progress Park lighting now underway, we’ve only just gotten started,” said Sports Minister Delma Thomas in a social media post on Thursday.

“This is great news for our sporting community,” said one local cricket enthusiast. “For years, we dreamed of seeing Progress Park light up the night, and now it’s finally happening. It means more opportunities for our youth and more entertainment for our parish.”

Progress Park has long been a cornerstone of Grenadian sports outside of St George’s, serving as a

training ground for schools, hosting inter-parish competitions, and welcoming regional teams. Generations of athletes have cut their teeth on its outfield, and the venue holds a deep cultural significance for residents of the north-east of the island.

The installation of lights not only improves sporting capacity but also reflects a wider push for community development through infrastructure investment. Once completed, Progress Park will be one of the few venues outside of the capital capable of hosting high-profile evening events, easing the concentration of activities in St George’s and providing greater access to entertainment and competition for rural communities.

According to Minister Thomas, the upgrade is part of the Government’s broader strategy to invest in sports as a driver of youth engagement, community unity, and national pride. Officials have also hinted that Progress Park could see further enhancements in the future, including improved seating and amenities.

For now, the people of St Andrew are celebrating a long-overdue step forward. Soon, the glow of floodlights will bathe the famous ground, ensuring that the sporting and cultural heartbeat of "Big Parish" continues well into the night.

Video Courtesy Kern Mason

Kirani James: A Champion Who Continues to Inspire

by Michael Bascombe

GRAND BAHAMA, The Bahamas – Grenada’s sporting hero, Kirani James, etched yet another chapter into his remarkable career on Sunday, capturing gold in the Men’s 400 metres at the NACAC Senior Athletics Championships in Grand Bahama.

James powered down the backstretch and pulled away in the homestretch to claim the title, demonstrating the composure and strength that have defined his career for nearly two decades. The victory not only adds the NACAC crown to his decorated résumé but also reinforces his status as one of the most accomplished quarter-milers in the history of track and field.

From his earliest days, Kirani James has carried Grenada’s flag high on the international stage. His journey began with standout performances at the CARIFTA Games and the Commonwealth Youth Games, before he went on to dominate at the World Youth Championships, the Pan American Junior Championships, and the World Junior Championships.

At the senior level, James quickly established himself as a global force. He captured gold at the 2011 World Championships in Daegu and, just a year later, won Grenada’s first-ever Olympic medal—a 400m gold at the London 2012 Olympics. His consistency across the years has been unmatched, with

medals at three consecutive Olympic Games (2012, 2016, and 2020), as well as victories at the Commonwealth Games, multiple Diamond League meets, and additional World Championship podium finishes.

James’ victory in Grand Bahama is more than just another medal; it is a continuation of a legacy built on resilience, discipline, and extraordinary talent. For Grenada, his triumphs have been a source of immense national pride, inspiring generations of young athletes across the Caribbean to believe in their potential.

With the NACAC title now part of his portfolio, James stands alongside the greatest in athletics history—an athlete whose dominance in the 400m has spanned from youth championships to the global stage.

As he celebrated with the Grenadian flag draped over his shoulders, fans in The Bahamas and around the world were reminded of why Kirani James is revered not just as a champion but as a role model. His latest victory is proof that greatness is not defined by a single race but by the consistency of excellence over time.

For Grenada, the Caribbean, and the world, Kirani James remains a living legend in the sport of track and field.

A Timely Investment in the RGPF—Reviving the K-9 Unit is a National Imperative

by Michael Bascombe

Grenada stands at a critical junction in its pursuit of public safety and national resilience. The Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF), long admired for its dedication and professionalism, continues to operate on the front lines against evolving security threats—from the smuggling of narcotics and illegal firearms to border vulnerabilities and organised crime. Yet, one crucial tool in modern policing remains absent: a fully operational K-9 Unit.

It is time for the Government of Grenada to act decisively and revive this important resource.

K-9 units are not experimental. They are tested, reliable, and proven to be one of the most effective resources in law enforcement worldwide. Specially trained dogs, under the skilled handling of police officers, can detect narcotics, firearms, explosives, and even track missing persons. Their ability to search rapidly and accurately reduces manpower demands and accelerates response times in both routine checks and high-risk situations.

In Grenada’s context—where ports of entry such as the Maurice Bishop International Airport, the Grenville Port, and ferry terminals are all susceptible to exploitation by criminal elements—a K-9 unit offers a strategic advantage. These dogs can help intercept illicit substances or weapons before they ever reach our communities.

Beyond interdiction, the mere presence of K-9 teams can serve as a powerful deterrent. During national events like Spicemas, public parades, and school engagements, K-9 officers not only provide added security but also foster public trust and engagement. Their use in educational outreach has been documented as a means to positively influence youth behaviour, especially regarding drug prevention.

This is not just about arresting criminals—it's about preventing crime through visibility, intelligence gathering, and enhanced patrol operations.

Regional and International Alignment

Across the Caribbean, K-9 units have become standard elements in national security frameworks. From

Jamaica to Trinidad & Tobago, and across the OECS, these programmes are supported by international partners, including the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Implementation Agency for Crime and Security (CARICOM IMPACS), International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL), United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the U.S. Homeland Security. Grenada should not lag behind.

Through regional training partnerships and donor funding, Grenada can access the support it needs to establish a cost-effective and sustainable K-9 programme. The foundation exists—we simply need the political will and administrative commitment to bring it to life.

Our police officers continue to operate with professionalism and pride, often under tight resource constraints. If we are to ask them to meet the modern threats of the 21st century, we must equip them accordingly. Reviving the K-9 Unit is not merely an operational upgrade—it is an affirmation that we support the men and women who keep us safe.

Let us not wait for a crisis to act. Let us instead make this bold, forward-looking investment in our security architecture now.

A Call to Government

I urge the Government of Grenada, through the Ministry of National Security, to initiate immediate consultations with the RGPF leadership to develop a strategic plan for the K-9 Unit. This should include:

• Assessment of current capabilities and gaps.
• Identification of trained personnel or candidates for training.
• Engagement with international donors and regional trainers.
• Allocation of funds for infrastructure, maintenance, and operations.

Grenada’s reputation as one of the safest countries in the region should not be taken for granted. Let’s enhance that reputation by equipping our police force with the tools it needs to stay ahead of the curve.

Beyond the Mas: Reflecting on Spicemas 2025

by Michael Bascombe

Spicemas 2025 has come to a close, and once again, Grenada has demonstrated its ability to deliver a Carnival that is safe, vibrant, and culturally rich. The festivities—from J’ouvert to Last Lap—showcased the creativity and energy of our people, backed by months of hard work from stakeholders across the board.

To the Spicemas Corporation, our artistes, musicians, mas bands (both traditional and fancy), band leaders, performers, queen contestants, pannists, promoters, broadcasters, volunteers, healthcare and sanitation workers, and patrons, who contributed to this success. And a special salute to the Royal Grenada Police Force (RGPF), whose consistent and visible presence was key in maintaining law and order. We also extend congratulations to all the winners across the various competitions. Your performances were a credit to the season.

However, as tradition dictates, Dimarche Gras sparked fierce debate, particularly regarding the results of the Calypso Monarch competition. Carnival results have long stirred passionate discussions—everyone believes their favourite should win. And in the digital age, where opinions can be shared and amplified instantly, these conversations grow even louder.

While debate is healthy in any artistic competition, it is vital to remember: competition is judged, but appreciation is personal. Art resonates differently with each of us, and while not every result may align with public sentiment, this does not diminish the significance or talent of any performer.

Still, reflection is necessary. As we celebrate Spicemas, we must also consider how we sustain it.

One concerning trend is the disappearance of pan on the road. Beyond Panorama, steel bands are increasingly absent from street parades. This points to a broader issue: are the main contributors—pannists, calypsonians, soca artistes, and traditional mas players—being fairly valued and supported?

If we are to protect the essence of Spicemas, we need more than pageantry—we need policy, investment, and continuity. Here are some recommendations:

1. Rebalance Compensation Structures
2. • Ensure cultural contributors are properly remunerated for their creative input, not just judged on competition results.
3. Reintroduce Pan to the Streets
4. • Provide incentives, transportation, and logistics beyond Panorama night. Create incentives for pan on the road, introduce mobile performance routes, and support pan yard showcases to bring back steelband visibility in public spaces.
5. Revive and Support Traditional Mas
6. • Offer financial and creative support to ensure traditional bands can thrive and involve younger generations. Support traditional bands through funding and community outreach. Encourage youth participation via school programmes and apprenticeship opportunities with veteran masqueraders.
7. Education and Mentorship
8. • Integrate Carnival arts into schools and community programmes and promote year-round training in music, performance, costume design, and storytelling. Let today’s performers teach tomorrow’s leaders.
9. Digital Storytelling and Promotion
10. • Use online platforms to share the stories behind the songs, costumes, and characters. Let the world understand the heart of Spicemas.
11. Transparent Judging and Feedback Loops
12. • Consider creating spaces for public engagement on judging criteria to foster trust and understanding while preserving the integrity of the art form.
13. Long-Term Planning
    Spicemas must be treated not only as a national event but as a strategic cultural industry. Investments in infrastructure, promotion, and artist development must be sustained throughout the year—not just in the Carnival season.

Grenada should be proud of the achievements made this year. Spicemas 2025 was a cultural triumph. But as we bask in the success, let us also embrace the responsibility to preserve, protect, and progress our traditions.

For Carnival to evolve, we must ensure that it remains inclusive, artistically diverse, and financially sustainable. The future of Spicemas depends on the choices we make now.

Let’s keep the conversation alive. And let’s keep the culture even stronger.

Grenada to Compete at FIDE World Under-16 Chess Olympiad in Colombia

ST GEORGE'S, GRENADA - August 15, 2025 – Grenada continues to make strides in the international chess arena as a five-member junior team departed the island on Friday to participate in the FIDE World Under-16 Chess Olympiad 2025 in Barranquilla, Colombia. The event will take place from August 16 to August 23, 2025.

This marks the second time Grenada is participating in a Junior Chess Olympiad. The country's growing presence on the world chess stage was previously highlighted in September 2024, when a team of ten players (five male and five female) competed in the 45th FIDE Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary.

Grenada has been a proud member of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) since 2020.

The team heading to Colombia includes:

• Jada Gill – St. Joseph’s Convent (St George)

• Aiden Victor – Presentation Brothers College

• Jaedyn Pierre – Grenada Boys’ Secondary School

• Rommel Ventour – Island Montessori School

Leading the delegation is Gennard Roberts, who serves as both Team Captain and Coach. Roberts was also part of the historic Grenada team at the 2024 Budapest Olympiad.

The players were selected following national playoffs held in June, with the top four emerging as finalists. Notably, the youngest member, Rommel Ventour, is just nine years old.

All four players have international experience, having competed in a friendly bilateral invitational tournament against St Vincent earlier this year. Additionally, Gill and Ventour represented Grenada at the 2024 Aruba Open Chess Championships.

Participation in the Colombia Olympiad will be the highest-level competition yet for the young Grenadian athletes, representing another significant milestone in the nation's chess development.

Grenada to Compete at 2025 NACAC Senior Championships in The Bahamas

ST GEORGE'S, GRENADA – August 14, 2025 – The Grenada Athletic Association (GAA) has confirmed the national team set to represent the nation at the 2025 NACAC Senior Championships, scheduled for August 15–17 in Freeport, The Bahamas.

The highly anticipated squad features Olympic champion and multiple World Championships medalist Kirani James, who will contest the 400 metres, aiming to add another prestigious title to his decorated career. James’ inclusion is expected to bring significant attention to Grenada’s campaign, as fans across the region look forward to witnessing the island’s most celebrated track athlete in action.

The team also includes a mix of experienced and emerging talents across sprints, relays, and field events:

• Kirani James – 400m
• Michael Francois – 400m, 4x400m
• Joshem Sylvester – 4x400m
• Jayden Phillip – 4x400m
• Troy Mason – 100m, 200m, 4x100m
• Ethan Sam – 4x100m
• Shaquane Toussaint – 400m, 4x400m
• Nazzio John – 100m, 200m, 4x100m
• Samuel Greene – 4x100m
• Kelsie Murriel – Shot Put

The delegation will be led by Team Manager/Coach Danisha Brathwaite, alongside Head Coach Wayne McSween and Coach Christopher Lawrence.

The NACAC Senior Championships will bring together elite athletes from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. Grenada’s athletes will be aiming not only for medals but also for strong performances that can boost their global rankings ahead of future international competitions. 

Reconnecting communities through sporting clubs

by Carole Beckford

Jamaica’s communities are in need of a social network to reconnect them and help them feel at home. So much of what community life was like up to 30 years ago is missing, and I suggest that the network of cricket and football clubs can reignite some of that passion and togetherness in communities. 

There are 14 Premier League football teams that compete for national honours and are based on matriculation, spread across the island. Meanwhile, cricket has up to 20 clubs, including parish teams and those with a wider reach. 

I propose that we establish a subscription process to galvanise support, while also mobilising individuals in the communities to feel a part of their respective teams. 

Membership is one way where you pay a small fee and you get to have access to the club’s schedule, home and away; you can purchase team merchandise at reduced cost; you may even get to travel with the team for overseas assignments. Most of these teams have a clubhouse where games are held, and there are several ways to participate in the club’s activities and events. 

Volunteering is a great way to start. 

Becoming a volunteer for a club is probably one of the best ways to get in. That can include anything from ensuring the clubhouse is clean for matches, preparing benches for both home and away teams, providing hydration for the teams, to attending practice so you can meet the players and management. Speaking of management, this would need to go through them so they can track the available personnel. Once that list grows, a roster is established for the season. 

Club Management 

The management must reach out to the wider community through schools – primary, high, and college; the church; and service clubs. It is then very important to know who the businesspeople are. That kind of connection creates the network that will form the basis of your support for at least three seasons. This is hard work, as a database will need to be created so you can reach as many people as possible. 

Engaging those close to you is important, and as many of the management team as possible should participate. 

Social Investment 

When you come from a community and its teams have people from the community with family ties, you almost feel obligated to get involved. The incentive is evident when the team performs well in competitions, and the community then senses growth and progress over a consistent period of time. 

The Venue (Club House) 

The venue is primarily for the sport but also serves as a space where the community can utilise it for appropriate events. At this level, there are other ways to participate, either as a member of the team organising the event or as a paying patron. If the venue is multi-faceted, that is more beneficial as the income generation potential is an attraction to other investors. 

There are existing templates for this, and they should be allowed to be used to reconnect the communities. The man/woman on the ground connects to a school, college, church and office, why not a sports club? 

Let’s get this show on the road. 

Part II will examine a sample club in closer detail to see how the method can be practised. Until next time. One Love!

 

Carole Beckford (@carolebeckford) is a marketing and communications specialist

Grenada Football Association (GFA) concludes Four-Day Elite Youth Coaches’ Workshop

St George’s, Grenada, July 19, 2025 — The Grenada Football Association (GFA) has successfully concluded the FIFA Elite Coaches’ Workshop, a four-day programme aimed at raising the standard of football coaching on the island. 

Held at the FA Secretariat, the workshop brought together coaches from various levels of the sport to engage in advanced training focused on modern coaching techniques, player development strategies, and high-performance principles.

The sessions were facilitated by FIFA technical experts Callum Irving, Simon Jennings, and Margret Kratz, with oversight from Ian Greenwood, FIFA Regional Technical Consultant. Participants were exposed to interactive modules and global best practices designed to strengthen their tactical knowledge and leadership skills.

GFA General Secretary Carl Lee described the initiative as a “pivotal moment” for Grenadian football, expressing gratitude to FIFA for its continued partnership.

He emphasised that the expertise shared will empower local coaches to better nurture the next generation of talent and drive the sport forward.

CANOC Appeals For Change In CARICOM Heads' Approach To Sport

Keith Joseph - CANOCs President

by Keith Joseph - President

Dear Colleagues and Friends 

The Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees (CANOC) has taken the bold step in calling for a change in the approach to sport in the Caribbean by the Heads of Government of CARICOM member countries. 

At the level of CANOC, we understand and remain appreciative of the efforts of the Heads of Government of the region in respect of the concerns they have had for the fortunes of West Indies Cricket, the first sporting institution from this part of the world to engage itself in international sports competition. The physical infrastructure in every Caribbean country has been provided, for the most part, by the respective governments, and we are all very grateful for the support that the sport has received with the hosting of international and regional competitions that have delighted populations everywhere. 

As many cricket historians have placed on record, cricket once held the aspirations of the peoples of the Caribbean. The sport was a means of helping us showcase our talent on the field of play and prove ourselves capable of holding our own in head-to-head matches. Success on the field of play translated into Caribbean peoples, while under the yoke of colonialism, being able to walk tall, confident that we were earning respect and that our dignity was increasingly being acknowledged. 

But history has also shown that our peoples have come to display our remarkable talent in other sports, especially in track and field athletics with the sporting excellence of Jamaica’s Arthur Wint, Herb McKenley and the 4 x 400m relay gold medallists at the Summer Olympics of 1948 and1952 respectively. Today, the Caribbean is expected to perform well above their size and economic resources in athletics. Our footballers have shown their worth and continue to prove attractive to international professional teams around the world. 

It remains that in the face of our sporting successes, our CARICOM Heads have apparently got stuck at the level of cricket being seen and treated by them as the single most important sport that holds significance to the peoples of the Caribbean. Not even the world record breaking performances and sprinting dominance of the great Usain Bolt has allowed the region’s political leadership to turn their attention to the global impact of athletics on our international standing, as a result of sport. 

The point that CANOC wishes to drive home today is that with sport being one of the fastest growing industries, we must commit our region, as a collective, to the location of sport tourism as a viable pillar of our respective economies. The transformation of many of the region’s athletes into wealthy members of Caribbean society serves as an incredible incentive to successive generations of the region’s youths, eager to break the back of chronic unemployment, underemployment, gender inequality, youth despondency, vagrancy and incessantly spiralling crime and delinquency. 

In the face of rapidly global change and economic uncertainty, our Caribbean leaders must move to embracing sport in its multifaceted nature, well beyond the narrow confines of cricket. While remaining committed to the rich legacy of cricket, the reality of our successes in an increasing number of other sports must push us to an acknowledgement that we can benefit, economically, socially and otherwise, as a region, through the opportunities for building upon the solidarity and unity that sport engenders.

CANOC therefore appeals to our CARICOM leaders to facilitate a broad-based regional discourse on sport as a major pillar of regional development through unity. We must right the wrongs of our failure to build on the positives of the concept of a West Indies Federation to create a new Caribbean that takes its rightful place amongst the international community, looking after the common interests of our people.

Together or Nothing!

A Sobering Scorecard: West Indies’ Collapse and the Illusion of Administrative Fixe

 

Getty Images

by Michael Bascombe

West Indies cricket suffered another humbling blow on Sunday, losing the third and final Test match against Australia by a crushing 176 runs at Sabina Park in Jamaica. Set a modest target of 204 runs for victory, the home side capitulated for a record-low second innings total of just 27 runs—one of the lowest in the history of Test cricket and a moment of deep embarrassment on Caribbean soil.

The defeat sealed a 3-0 series sweep for the visiting Australians, leaving fans across the region disheartened, frustrated, and searching—once again—for answers. And, as is often the case in times of crisis, the calls for administrative change have grown louder.

There are always those who believe that changing administrators will magically reverse the decline of West Indies cricket. Whether it was Sir Wes Hall, Sir Julian Hunte, Dave Cameron, Ricky Skerritt, or now Dr Kishore Shallow at the helm, there exists a stubborn belief that rotating leadership at the top will somehow produce instant victories on the field.

But this view, though emotionally understandable, is deeply flawed.

History has shown us that leadership alone cannot fix deeply entrenched structural issues. It reminds me of the days when fans in Grenada would call for the dismissal of Ashley “Ram” Folkes or Cheney Joseph every time the national football team lost a match. But even with new faces at the top, the results remained largely unchanged. That’s because success requires more than just a fresh nameplate on an office door—it demands a comprehensive strategy, sustained investment, and, most importantly, a shift in mindset.

Even if we were to gather every West Indies cricket legend—Richards, Lara, Holding, Ambrose—and give them leadership positions today, there would be no immediate renaissance. Why? Unless there is a fundamental change in the attitude, discipline, and commitment of the current crop of players, the cycle of mediocrity will continue.

Talent, which the Caribbean has never lacked, is not the issue. The problem lies in the execution, preparation, and professional culture surrounding the game. Without the hunger to compete at the highest level, the willingness to put in the hard work, and the respect for the maroon jersey, past glories can only serve as nostalgic reminders, not solutions to the present challenges.

This is not a West Indies-specific dilemma. Even Brazil, the spiritual home of football, has tried bringing back legends into coaching and management roles. Yet their national team continues to struggle.

The greatness of the past, while inspiring, does not automatically translate into success in the present.

West Indies cricket finds itself in a similar position. Until we prioritise long-term player development, invest in grassroots programmes, modernise training infrastructure, and instil discipline and professionalism from youth levels up, changing administrators will be like rearranging deck chairs on a sinking ship.

The Shell Cricket Academy, once based at St George’s University (SGU) in Grenada, was one of the most promising initiatives ever undertaken for the development of West Indies cricket, spearheaded by Dr Rudi Webster. The academy aimed to provide young cricketers with a structured, high-performance environment that combined technical training with psychological development, fitness, and education.

It was a pioneering model—one that had the potential to transform the cricketing landscape across the region by producing well-rounded athletes prepared for the rigours of international competition. However, rather than rallying around the initiative, internal territorial politics began to creep in. Some territories questioned why the academy was based in Grenada and lobbied for it to be relocated or duplicated elsewhere. Instead of strengthening the initiative collectively, regional divisions began to undermine its foundation.

Dr Webster’s leadership and vision came under pressure, not due to shortcomings in the programme but because of the old, familiar problem of insular thinking and turf protection. Eventually, Shell, the title sponsor and key financial backer, pulled out, disillusioned by the lack of unified regional support and direction. What could have been a flagship development programme for West Indies cricket was left to wither, a victim of short-sightedness and fragmented ambition.

The collapse of the Shell Cricket Academy is a reminder of how internal rivalries and a failure to support long-term development can be costly, not just in terms of missed opportunities but in the very progress we claim to want for West Indies cricket.

There are broader regional efforts aimed at addressing the crisis. The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has a dedicated Prime Ministerial Sub-Committee on Cricket, chaired by Guyana’s President, Dr Irfaan Ali. The group has held several meetings to assess the current state of the game and chart a roadmap for the future. They’ve reviewed the outcomes of a regional cricket conference and even discussed avenues for funding the sport at the regional level.

Yet even CARICOM’s involvement has its limits. A decade ago, a detailed final report by the CARICOM Cricket Review Panel was submitted following months of consultation with stakeholders. The report included sweeping recommendations on governance reform, many of which have been adopted by Cricket West Indies (CWI). Still, the results on the field have not improved in any meaningful or consistent way.

This raises an important point: regional governments, while having the right to support and scrutinise cricket, must also widen their focus to sports as a whole. Cricket cannot be the only vehicle for regional pride or development. A holistic approach to sports—encompassing education, health, youth empowerment, and economic opportunity—will lay a foundation that benefits all disciplines.

In the meantime, West Indies fans must be willing to face an uncomfortable truth: no single administrator, coach, or cricket legend can wave a magic wand to restore former glory. The change must begin at the grassroots, in the attitudes of players, the systems that develop them, and the values we promote across the sporting spectrum.

The scoreboard at Sabina Park tells a painful story. But it is not the first, and it won’t be the last unless we choose a different path—one rooted in realism, responsibility, and long-term resolve.

Caribbean Anti-Doping Official Warns Athletes Against Participation in Controversial Enhanced Games

by Michael Bascombe

A leading Caribbean anti-doping authority has issued a firm warning to regional athletes to steer clear of the controversial Enhanced Games set to debut in August 2026.

Speaking on the TalkSports programme on Saturday, Dr Adrian Lorde, Chair of the National Anti-Doping Commission of Barbados, cautioned athletes about the serious health risks linked to performance-enhancing drug use despite the event’s promise of substantial financial rewards.

During the live interview with host Michael Bascombe, Dr Lorde emphasised that the allure of lucrative earnings should never eclipse the potential physical and ethical dangers involved. “Athletes must weigh the immediate gains against the long-term impact on their health and the integrity of their careers,” he said. “Doping carries risks that extend well beyond the playing field, including severe medical complications and lasting damage to an athlete’s reputation.”

Earlier this week, the Caribbean Regional Anti-Doping Organisation (RADO) released a formal statement condemning the Enhanced Games concept in unequivocal terms. The organisation labelled the event as “abhorrent,” particularly because it promotes various forms of doping, whether state-sponsored, medically supervised, or otherwise.

“The encouragement of any form of doping, whether state-sponsored, ‘medically-guided’ or otherwise, is abhorrent,” the statement declared. “Those who engage in such practices should not enter clean sport, nor hold the title of champion, record holder or otherwise. Beyond competition, any individual or group that supports these Games should hold no position of leadership in sport or other sanctioned competition.”

RADO further warned that the Enhanced Games represent a fundamental threat to the values that underpin global sport. “The Enhanced Games can be seen as a body which is attempting to undermine and contaminate what the global sports movement continually works hard to protect and preserve.”

Dr Lorde reinforced this position, urging Caribbean athletes and sports organisations to take a unified stand. “We encourage all athletes, particularly those in the Caribbean, to steer clear of the Enhanced Games and the significant risks they entail — both to personal health and to the integrity of sport,” he said.

The National Anti-Doping Commission of Barbados and RADO concluded by calling on all Caribbean sports bodies to publicly oppose the Enhanced Games, ensuring that the region continues to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and athlete safety.

A Critical Moment for Caribbean Media: Urgent Need for Strategic Investment and Sustainability

by Michael Bascombe

The announced closure of SportsMax by Digicel, alongside the immediate shutdown of Loop News, marks a significant and troubling moment for Caribbean media. For over 20 years, SportsMax has been a cornerstone of regional and international sports broadcasting, instrumental in developing Caribbean sports journalism and delivering high-quality, culturally relevant programming to its audiences.

These losses expose the precarious state of media sustainability in the region. The disappearance of such influential platforms echoes the past decline of notable institutions like Radio Antilles, the Caribbean News Agency (CANA), and the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC). These historic precedents highlight the urgent need to rethink how media operates, funds itself, and remains relevant in an evolving digital landscape and to recognise media as a vital sector deserving of formal support and strategic investment, akin to tourism or agriculture.

Going forward, the path must be one of strategic investment and the establishment of sustainable frameworks tailored to the unique needs of Caribbean media. This includes fostering partnerships between governments, private sector stakeholders, and regional organisations to provide financial stability, infrastructure, and innovation support. It also encourages partnerships among media houses, broadcasters, and educational institutions that will nurture the next generation of Caribbean storytellers.

Without decisive action, the region risks losing not only its media platforms but also its ability to shape its narrative in sports and beyond. The closures of SportsMax and Loop News are a clarion call to stakeholders to elevate Caribbean media from a vulnerable sector to a resilient and thriving pillar of regional identity and development.