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.