04032024 News and Sport

Crowds flock to Coconut Festival at Pelican Point

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

HUNDREDS of visitors and residents headed to East Grand Bahama for the annual Pelican Point Coconut Festival held on Easter Monday.

Cathy Laing, chairman of the Pelican Point Coconut Festival Committee, said the event was a huge success.

“We had an excellent turnout and the weather could not have been better,” she said. “The festival was well supported by locals and we have visitors that scheduled their vacations to be with us around this time for the festival.”

Grand Bahama Minister Ginger Moxey opened the festival with brief remarks, and Leader of the Opposition Michael Pintard also brought greetings on behalf of East Grand Bahama MP Kwasi Thompson.

Ms Laing said residents looked forward to the cultural festival each year because it an economic stimulus for the area. The festival features all things coconut from games and activities to food and drinks.

There are coconut barking, conch cracking, and pass the coconut contests, and the plaiting of a coconut pole. Festival attendees feasted on delicious coconut-inspired foods, including coconut rice and fish, and treats such as coconut tart, duff, and coconut jimmy, and lots of gully wash, a popular Bahamian beverage. Bahamian entertainer KB entertained the crowd with many of his classic hits. Live entertainment was also provided by the St George’s’ Pop Band, the Grand Bahama Police Pop Band, and a Junkanoo rush out by the Platinum Knights.

Ms Laing said the festival brings people together to enjoy Bahamian culture, fellowship, and entertainment. “This is a time when everyone can come out to have a good time. It is domestic tourism at its best and a taste of the “out island” experience without having to leave the island,” she said.

Ms Laing said the Pelican Point Gospel Festival was held on Good Friday and was also well attended.

GINGER Moxey Minister for Grand Bahama. Assistant Commissioner of Police Northern Bahamas Miss Knowles attending the Coconut Festival at Pelican Point in GRand Bahama yesterday. Photos: Vandyke Hepburn

Three men held in Saunders murder

residents of the Gambier community, according to Commissioner Fernander.

During a press conference yesterday, Commissioner Fernander provided members of the press with an update into the Free National Movement deputy chairman’s death, along with the country’s most recent murders.

Commissioner Fernander said CCTV has assisted investigators with making progress in their investigations of the Gambier Village robbery.

CCTV footage revealed a vehicle was parked in front of a residence two corners away from the business establishment before the incident, according to Commissioner Fernander.

He said the driver parked and waited until the owner of the establishment arrived before the the robbery when two men emerged from a black Nissan March and approached the owner. The owner ran to the back of the building where customers were located.

“The two gunmen held the employees and the customers at bay,” Mr

Fernander said yesterday, “And one of the culprits approached Mr Saunders and pushed a weapon in his face and demanded cash.

“It was at this time the weapon was right in his face, this is according to witnesses, that he brushed the hand that the culprit was holding the weapon and it was at this time he was shot directly to the neck area. And he (Mr Saunders) ran to the eastern side of that yard with a view of trying to get away and that’s when he collapsed.”

Roughly eight to ten customers were robbed of cash and jewellery, with Commissioner Fernander appealing to witnesses who have yet to come forward and speak with officials.

Mr Saunders leaves behind a wife and two children.

Commissioner Fernander also gave an update on the country’s latest shooting incident on Peardale Road, south of Wulff Road. Police said two men armed with firearms got out of the back of the vehicle and opened fire on the group on Monday. The victims, aged 16, 20, 23, 37, 41 and 44 were all taken to

“With respect to the homicide that occurred in

On Thursday, a man, alleged to be from New Providence

and

OFFICER ALLEGEDLY INVOLVED IN $90,000 ROBBERY INVESTIGATED, SAYS FERNANDER

this press briefing so that we can see where we are at with the investigation and we’ll then go from there, but we’re still trying to get some clarity with respect to that incident.”

A 28-year-old Bahamas

Affairs Minister and current FNM Senator Darren Henfield, pleaded not guilty to charges of possession of an unlicensed firearm and possession of ammunition and was granted $8,000 bail. Commissioner Fernander said that officers are warned, but they do have to answer for their actions. He said: “We continue to be concerned about things like that, but they are responsible for their own action. We continue to try to steer, especially our young people, in the right direction. Every day, we are speaking to our officers and with respect to matters with the prison, man every other month you see the same thing. They should get itthe crime doesn’t pay and it’s the same trend. “An officer from the prison will get arrested today for that and then two weeks later another officer tries the same thing. Something is wrong, definitely wrong with that, but you could see what I’m doing in the Royal Bahamas Police Force. If you find yourself involved in criminal activities, I deal with you right way. “We just put two officers before the courts who were involved in serious crimeshooting, attempted murder was charged for four counts. How the hell you could be a part of us? You cannot, man, and I will not stand for it.” from page one

PC 4394 Dreyon Henfield, son of former Foreign

Department of Corrections Services officer is in police custody after allegedly attempting to smuggle electronic devices and suspected marijuana into the correctional facility. Last month, an interdicted police officer was brought before the courts after he was accused of brandishing a loaded gun outside a bar.

FERNANDER: ‘FAMILY ISLAND COURIER SERVICES EASY TARGET FOR GUN IMPORT’

By

AFTER Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander highlighted gun trafficking has now trickled into the Family Islands as a result of people abusing courier services, local courier businesses said they are open to help preventing weapons from being brought into the country.

Following shooting incidents over the Easter Holiday weekend, Commissioner Fernander said there is a lingering question

on how firearms continue to enter the country. He spoke to reporters during a press conference at the Paul Farquharson Conference Centre at police headquarters. He said The Bahamas is still working with the United States to tackle gun trafficking. However, courier businesses are a challenge for police as guns are sometimes smuggled through shipping services. Commissioner Fernander noted that “about two weeks ago” a “package” came to the Berry Islands. “We know now that the

Family Islands are being targeted. Easy target with weapons coming in. And eventually comes down into New Providence the big city through couriers. We are dealing with that in terms of putting a plan of action in place. We are working jointly as well with our Customs Department. We are getting some excellent results,” he said.

One of the owners of CUBIX, Gia Knowles, said since being operational for six years their shipping company has not experienced guns being trafficked in their packages. She said

her shipping company diligently checks every single package before it leaves the United States to make sure it’s safe and properly invoiced.

“When I see reports and things like that of these things getting in, I always think that there’s someone who knows what’s going on and is just trying to get away with the law versus not following and that in hand makes it bad for all of us even the ones who are following the law,” Ms Knowles said.

She added she hopes the issue of gun trafficking can

be put to an end to ensure the safety of Bahamians in general. Asked if she believed courier businesses were being scapegoated, Ms Knowles said she couldn’t necessarily say. She noted it can be a situation where a courier service is voluntarily involved in bad business or a courier service could fall victim to a deceitful client who was involved in illegal activities. Christiana Green, manager of Ship Coast to Coast, also said their company has never experienced gun trafficking either.

Commissioner Fernander during the press conference said police were putting a plan into action regarding gun trafficking through courier services. It is unclear what the plan will entail. Ms Green questioned what additional measures could be added as the Customs Department is responsible for thoroughly inspecting packages. However, she said, if officials can create additional procedures to prevent and minimise the smuggling of weapons it would be good for all businesses.

hospital where they remain in stable condition. This incident follows the fatal shooting of Kenton Farquharson in Andros on Saturday.

Andros on Saturday where a young man who resides here in Nassau travelled to Andros and was involved in some altercation with another male,” Commissioner Fernander said. “Eventually, a male emerged from the crowd, there was a good crowd at this club, armed with a firearm and he was shot and died on the scene.”

was shot

killed in Bimini. Commissioner Fernander said police have one suspect in custody in connection with that matter. The country’s murder count for the year currently stands at 37.

DON SAUNDERS

POLICE Commissioner Clayton Fernander speaks during a press conference at Police Headquarters yesterday. Photo: Dante Carrer

Easter weekend proves profitable for fishermen, but not without problems

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS Tribune Staff Reporter lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

FISHERMEN said sales during the Easter holiday weekend proved to be profitable, but noted that bad weather and increased fees affected their business. Easter weekend is often profitable for fishermen throughout the country given the Good Friday holiday when it is customary for Bahamians to indulge in traditional Bahamian dishes centred around fish.

Jeremiah Rolle, a local fisherman on Potters Cay, said he sold out, and called it a good year. “Well, to me, right, it isn’t the sales, it’s all about Christ, and if you believe in God, God will touch your heart and make anything work,” he told The Tribune.

However, Gregory Brown, spokesman for the Montagu Association, said while sales were good, he is confident last year was more profitable. He said bad weather leading up to the holiday weekend contributed heavily to the decline in sales.

“Just give thanks for everything, it wasn’t that bad, but we appreciate it, we thought it could’ve been better, but it is what it is,”

Mr Brown said at Montagu Beach.

Paul Maillis, the National Fisheries Association secretary, told The Tribune the demand for fish during the Easter holiday is no surprise, while noting a price increase given the uptick in the cost of operation. He said: “I think that there may have been some challenges with supplies this year, however, with some complications... which meant a lot of boats were unable to get registered or get their commercial fishing licences renewed and so they paid those fees.

“A lot of people were

“Through the blessing of God, this one of the best years I had in a long time. So, on my behalf, I could brag and say God blessed me well this year. “It ain’t nothing to do with the weather. It has to do with what you sell, it’s who you know and who knows you, whoever you know could support you and it’s the way you treat people. If you are a bad businessman, then you can’t expect people to spend with you. “Based on what I brought out, I sold out. This is a way better year for me. I did way more better than I did last year.”

waiting for the new revised fees which came into effect in early March to get all their business done so, some consumers may have experienced

‘Explosive’ hurricane forecast predicts over 20 named storms for 2024 season

hurricane season could spawn a near-record number of storms” this year with AccuWeather’s lead hurricane forecaster, Alex DaSilva, saying sea-surface temperatures are “well above” historical averages, particularly naming the Caribbean as one of the regions in which this temperature rise has occurred.

Forecasters from AccuWeather advised that preparation for “a frenzy of tropical systems” should begin now. Chief meteorological

officer Kaylinda WardForbes, though she acknowledged the validity of AccuWeather’s prediction, cautioned away from sensationalism, wanting to wait until other weather forecast institutes such as Colorado State University and National Hurricane Centre (NHC) forecasters to release their predictions, which is expected to be sometime this month. “More than likely, they probably would also go for it being an above-normal season based on what is happening globally in terms of us moving from the El

Nino phase to the La Nina,” Mrs Ward-Forbes said.

“With the La Nina phase, there’s less wind-shear, meaning that there’s less winds in the upper levels if there is a system that causes it to grow.

When El Nino is present, the winds in the upper levels are stronger, so it tends to shear or tear the hurricanes apart, now, that feature is the main reason why they’re expecting the season to be above normal, but in terms of numbers [of hurricanes], we tend to go with the Colorado State [University] and

the National Hurricane Centre.” She warned that no matter if a hurricane season is “active or not so active”, it only takes one hurricane to cause devastation.

“Having the prediction is really good, but what we as Bahamians need to focus on is that the hurricane season is coming, and our best bet is to always have ourselves prepared,” she said, The director of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Captain Stephen Russell, told The Tribune that though

hurricane preparation is an all-year-round activity, with 25 shelters in New Providence already inspected from last month, there is more being done as the hurricane season draws near. He said: “Shelter management training is going on now in collaboration with the Defence Force and some of our departments, so it’s a whole series of things going on right now.”

In March last year, the US government donated 28 generators and six reverse osmosis systems to The Bahamas in a support package reported to be valued at $600,000.

Capt Russell said they are in the process of installing those generators. It is expected that generators are to be installed at shelters on the islands of Abaco, Acklins, Andros, Cat Island, Exuma, Mayaguana, and Crooked Island.

When asked about the National Youth Guard (NYG) programme, an initiative to create a corps of young Bahamians equipped

with the skills to respond to emergencies and disasters by supporting public and private agencies, Capt Russell said the second cohort from that programme, made up of people from different Family Islands, have been trained to assist in times of both natural and man-made disaster situations.

“The last group are now in an on-job training programme and hopefully in time with exposure they can be called in to assist or support in our disaster programme wherever they are in the Family Islands, cause some came in from the islands – the first cohort was trained in Grand Bahama, so we hope to be able to call upon them to assist and appear to our communities for pending disasters,” he said.

Last year, at the end of March, Prime Minister Philip Davis expressed his belief that had the NYG been implemented in 2019, lives could have been saved during Hurricane Dorian. from page one

HURRICANE Dorian in 2019

Minnis: People look at disclosures ‘as a joke’

Commission chairman Bishop Victor Cooper was unclear on whether an extension was given when pressed on the matter. He was also not forthcoming on how many MPs have disclosed as yet. Bishop Cooper told The Tribune he was out of town and to call the disclosure office. However, the individual to whom he referred said she was unable to give any information.

Pressed again on the issue, Bishop Cooper answered: “Well, you’ll have to wait until it’s released.” Opposition leader Michael Pintard told The Tribune he was unaware that there was an extension. The Public Disclosure Act empowers the opposition leader as well as the prime minister to act on delinquent filings.

Dr Minnis also did not know about the extension. If the extension did occur, he argued the granting of the extension shows a flippant attitude.

“Extension means that you’re not taking it seriously, so people look at it as a joke and that is one of the big problems in this country. We do not enforce laws and regulations. Until we do that, you will find us as always in some form of deficient mode. You know, we always try to compare ourselves to first world countries or other country of similar size abroad, but those countries are disciplined.

“They are law-abiding, they respect each other. You know. So, let’s go back to basics. Let’s go back to the church. Let’s go back to loving each other. Just not talk it, show it. Until we do these things, we’re not serious. We’re jokes.”

Bishop Cooper indicated last year that 90 percent of parliamentarians had filed by the March 1 deadline. He added that many senators and senior civil servants failed to disclose their assets, income and liabilities. The names of those who missed the deadline have not been revealed.

The penalty for not disclosing is a $10,000 fine and/or up to two years in prison. from page one

EASTERN ROAD ENCOUNTERED DELAYS, BUT ‘MOVING FORWARD’, SAYS SWEETING

By JADE RUSSELL Tribune Staff Reporter jrussell@tribunemedia.net

WORKS Minister Clay Sweeting said yesterday there were some delays in roadworks on the Eastern Road, but officials are “moving forward”.

Mr Sweeting said Bahamas Power and Light (BPL) along with Water and Sewerage had necessary work to do in the area.

He said his ministry wanted to ensure the new paved road wouldn’t be disturbed. “So, as they complete, we pave,” Mr Sweeting said.

On March 5, the Ministry of Works issued a statement that paving works would begin at the junction of Johnson Road heading east and end at the junction of Fox Hill road. The roadworks were expected to be completed by March 22. Originally motorists were advised roadwork would take place between 7.30am and 3.30pm daily. Mr Sweeting later adjusted the timeframe of the road works to limit the frustration of motorists.

New Providence this year and the following year.

“We’ll start around at around nine o’clock after traffic dies off on Eastern Road. The reality is we have an aggressive road paving programme that we’re trying to pave over 55 miles of road in

So, we’re trying to schedule all of that. We got to get it done. So we’re just trying minimise the frustration of the people that live out there as well,” he told reporters on March 6 outside the House of Assembly.

In December 2023, Mr Sweeting announced

a $98m road paving to repair more than 50 miles of roads in New Providence in the first phase. He said Bahamix was the main contractor for the $98,210,000 programme, which aims to improve the porosity of more than 55 miles of community and arterial roads in New Providence and the Family Islands.

The New Providence portion of the programme costs $91,207,000.68 and work was scheduled to happen within two and a half years. Sidewalk construction costs $3m and drainage works $4m. Some $2m has also been budgeted to address flooding issues in the Dowdeswell and Bay Street areas.

WORKS Minister Clay Sweeting said yesterday there were some delays in roadworks on the Eastern Road, but officials are “moving forward”.

Another communication breakdown on disclosures

Despite that, all the FNM MPs filed on time, but Dr Minnis is right when he says that the disclosure deadline is too often seen as a joke.

ious stories about purchase vs lease or rental vs

circulated, and we are still none the wiser. We also pointed out the problems over the communication over what was to happen to NIB rates after minister Alfred Sears stood up in the House of Assembly and announced a rise of 1.5 percent every two years for 20 years only for him to be swiftly contradicted by the Office of the Prime Minister saying only the first year had been decided on, as if that alone would fix the hole in NIB’s bucket.

And so we come to public disclosures, for which the law specifies a deadline of March 1, and yet a source tells us that was extended to March 15, and the acting press secretary says it was March 31. Which one? Take your pick.

It appears the Opposition were unaware of any extension, with neither FNM leader Michael Pintard nor former Prime Minister Dr Hubert Minnis having been told, it would seem.

Chalk it up to another communications failure? Perhaps, but Mr Pintard is one of those who can call for delinquent filings to be acted upon – how can he do that if he is not even informed of extensions?

It was interesting to note that the Public Disclosures Commission chairman, Bishop Victor Cooper, happened to be out of town when the deadline seems to have arrived – if you believe the acting press secretary’s date, that is.

The one job he is there to oversee – was he there when the deadline arrived?

Bear in mind, this is just the fact of meeting the deadline, let alone any vetting of the declarations that are actually made to see if they are genuine or not.

Our country is short of safeguards, and the few we have are too often not respected, as if some are above the need to follow the laws.

That is an example to others that laws are somehow optional. They are not.

But credit to those who do as the law requires and file on time. Particular credit to the most recent MP, Kingsley Smith, who filed on time and did not resort to some of the flimsy excuses used by others in this term about not realising the need to file by a set deadline. Start as you mean to go on, we would hope.

A laxness over meeting deadlines and a laxness over efficient communication makes one wonder whether that laxness extends to other areas of government.

Is this how the government wishes to be seen? We would think not. But we can only judge by what we see.

EDITOR, The Tribune.

A NEW nation com-

prising of all Caribbean nations which would become provinces/states of the greater whole. A united powerful Caribbean nation that can work for itself, develop and protect itself.

There is a distinct and necessary moment in time when a group must unite and facilitate the confederacy of itself for its own protection, management and policing. For the Caribbean that time is now. A united Caribbean, a new united nation.

Most super powers look upon the Caribbean nations as ports of call, places to hide their money and send their tourists too. China, America, Britain, France, Arab world manage to control much of the Islands infrastructure, Ports, Hotels and have undue influence upon the Caribbean political realities.

EDITOR, The Tribune.

AS the political game appears to be hotting up as we say, it was great as always to see FNM leader Michael Pintard lead his valiant team into battle last week, against a PLP government which seems to believe it is above reproach and unquestionable! An idea that is laughable if it were not so serious, as they continue to stumble all over themselves trying to pull the wool over the eyes of the Bahamian people with their mountain of lies and missteps! However, there still appears to be a shortfall in the ability of the FNM to take full advantage of the situation. Instead of where’s Waldo, I have to ask, where is

Dr Minnis, the Member for Killarney and former prime minister and leader of our great party?

Again I am warning the FNM, get it together!

Dr Minnis seems quite content to throw a few rocks in the House when he can walk out after doing so, but when it comes to standing with the leader and his team, he, in my opinion, is AWOL! This is unacceptable from someone who undoubtedly wants to be leader again! Your book, sir, is titled “The Power of Determination?” What is it you are now determined to do? For every matter that requires a united front, at every press conference where possible, Mr

Pintard is surrounded by four of the faithful. We will forgive Long Island because he has his own problems! Where are you though, sir? It is time to show the people, primarily FNM’s, that you are truly a party man and you have the best interest of the party at heart instead of what is believed to be your own agenda. This is no time to be selling books, sir!

As we say on the blocks, if you isn’t serious, get out this good game because we will remember you at the next convention!

Some say September? It can’t come soon enough!

SAMUEL ROKER

Nassau, March 27, 2024.

Kenyan soldiers in Haiti? The Caribbean can outwit and over come all its political-security needs as a united force.

The job of protecting a Caribbean nations security, protecting its citizens must fall into the hands of a united Caribbean confederation, not foreigner influenced. Combining the regions wealth, international influence, police and military capabilities, a united Caribbean can make due without the undue influences of China, America and other political-financial vultures.

Like Quebec, the Caribbean must protect its

Haiti is a perfect example. Abused by colonialists like France, their independence brought only oppression, tyranny and exploitation from the international communities financial sector. Now their capital is over run by gangsters and villains and Haiti’s government had to go to international organisations to attempt to bring their Island under control.

culture, natural resources, population and future development from the international manipulation that it has experienced for hundreds of years. Enslavement comes in many forms, and it does not matter who the slave traders are, be it financial-political colonists, China expansionists, American capitalists or European adventurists. A united Caribbean stands a better chance working together for its own benefit, and not the benefit of old time exploiters, abusers and building a wealthy and prosperous region lays in selfish determination. Americans, China and others care firstly about their needs, not those of Haiti, Jamaica, Guyana or the Caribbean region.

The Caribbean comes first, second and last. A united Caribbean can survive and develop its future economic and political challenges.

STEVEN KASZAB

Bradford, Ontario April 2, 2024

MEMBERS of The Bahamas Swim Team pause for a victory selfie yesterday while receiveing their gold medals for winning the 15-17 800m freestyle relays on Sunday.

Photo: Dante Carrer

Grand Lucaya sees rise in occupancy numbers over long Easter weekend

By DENISE MAYCOCK Tribune Freeport Reporter dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

SOME hotel properties experienced occupancy levels of between 30 and 40 percent over the Easter holiday, particularly in the Lucaya area.

Tina McDonald, reservations manager at Lighthouse Pointe at the Grand Lucaya Resort, said the resort did extremely well at both restaurants and saw an improvement in occupancy.

“We did well at Portobellos and the Prop Club Beach Bar and Grill, which catered to many day passengers and locals. So, both ends of the property did extremely well in food and beverage,” she said.

Ms McDonald said the resort also saw a boost in occupancy on the weekend

due to a Gospel concert at the property.

“We did great on the weekend because Pastor Barry Morris held a concert here, and quite a number of people were staying in the hotel for that event.

“Our occupancy did improve; we were at 40 percent occupancy,” she said.

The Lighthouse Pointe at Grand Lucaya Resort has some 200 guest rooms with island, marina, and ocean views. Next door at the Pelican Bay Resort, reservation supervisor Brittany Curry reported overall occupancy for the Easter holiday period was between 30 to 35 percent.

“It was pretty quiet, but the guests here enjoyed themselves,” she said.

BRAZILIAN MAN CHARGED WITH SMUGGLING $7.5M IN DRUGS DENIED BAIL

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A BRAZILIAN man accused of smuggling $7,580,000 worth of cocaine into Mayaguana last week was remanded in custody yesterday.

Acting Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley charged Carlos Peña Fernandes, 38, with possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply, conspiracy to possess dangerous drugs with intent to supply, importation of dangerous drugs and conspiracy to import dangerous drugs.

found with 379 kilos of cocaine contained in 13 white sacks at the Mayaguana Airport shortly after 1am on March 26. The drugs seized in this matter were recovered from a white single engine Cessna aircraft parked at the airport.

After pleading not guilty to the charge, Fernandes was denied bail by Prosecutor Inspector Deon Barr.

The defendant will be remanded to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until he returns to court for mention on April 15.

Ms Curry said guests are provided complimentary pastries in the lobby area and access to pool activities.

Fernandes along with an accomplice were allegedly

Deon Smith represented the accused.

“Easter is normally a slow time for us, but we are anticipating an increase in occupancy by the end of April and into the

Fire services fight blaze near Venetian West and Windsor Road

what seemed

Although the origin of the fire is unknown at this time, according to Chief Superintendent Kenrick Morris, Director of Fire Services, they received reports of the fire around 1:20pm on Easter Monday. “We’ve been monitoring it all through the night, all through the day. It poses no threat to any property at this time. We are unable to gain access to this fire because it’s burning far inland, and as the fire approaches the road, we extinguish it as it approaches,” Chief Supt Morris said, adding that the fire is about a mile inland, with fire services unable to gain access. He added that the fire that was visible metres away from the road was extinguished, adding that he understands concerns about the smoke in an area where businesses and restaurants operate.

According to some onlookers at the scene, several calls were made to emergency services this afternoon at around 5pm, with reports of it being 20 minutes passing before the first fire truck arrived.

A security guard on the scene said that he saw a fire engine come to extinguish the flames shortly after his 5pm shift started.

He added that they stayed on scene for roughly

an hour before having to refill and return to extinguish the rest of the fire. Chief Supt Morris said that on Monday the fire department received reports of a bush fire in the western district. He said: “Officers were dispatched. Upon their arrival, they were not able to gain access to this fire, due to the distance it was burning inland. However, portions of the fire were extinguished, the remainder that we weren’t able to gain access to was continuously monitored by officers throughout Monday night. “On Tuesday, the 2nd

of April 2024, officers returned to the site where they continue to monitor this fire, which is still burning inland, which they will continue to monitor until this fire has been completely extinguished.”

Kenneth McPhee, one of the partners at Zen Asian Fusion, spoke of how businesses in the area have had to end business hours early and how persons were calling emergency services from yesterday, which they were told fire services would be sent to the area. “Today [Tuesday] in the afternoon was the first time I’d even seen a fire

truck come this way and all I saw them do was ride up and down as in a state of confusion to me because I’ve watched it creep in,” Mr McPhee said. Now, I know cause of the layout of the land it’s a little difficult, but i feel that they need to saturate the sides of the road because what is happening is a hazard to drivers, even businesses have had to close down.”

According to Mr McPhee, businesses have had to close down and added that he hopes for a more strategic approach the following day.

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was sent to prison yesterday after he was accused of mugging three people at gunpoint last month.

Magistrate Algernon Allen, Jr, charged Ricardo Mitchell, 30, with three counts of armed robbery. Mitchell along with accomplices while armed with a handgun allegedly robbed Romero Storr of $3,500 cash and his iPhone 11 Pro Max on March 18

in New Providence. During this incident, Mitchell allegedly also stole Howard Smith’s iPhone 11 along with $40 in cash as well as $30 in cash from Alexander Bain. The defendant was told that his matter would proceed to the Supreme Court through a voluntary bill of indictment (VBI). He will be sent to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services until the higher court grants him bail.

Mitchell’s VBI is set for service on July 2.

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was sentenced to four months in prison yesterday after he admitted breaking out of a prison bus last week.

Magistrate Algernon

Allen, Jr, charged Vandrick Smith, 33, with escape from lawful custody and resisting arrest. Smith, while en route to the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services for his arrest on an earlier charge, managed to escape a prison bus on Wulff Road on March 28. Later the same day at around 5.30pm, Smith resisted arrest from PC 4778 Taylor. Following his guilty plea to the charge, Smith was sentenced to four months at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.

By PAVEL BAILEY Tribune Staff Reporter pbailey@tribunemedia.net

A MAN was sentenced to 30 months in prison yesterday after he admitted to possessing a stolen vehicle last week.

Magistrate Algernon Allen, Jr, charged Adrian Hamilton, 51, with stealing and receiving. Hamilton was reportedly

found with a stolen black 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee on March 28 in New Providence. This vehicle, valued at $5,000, was reportedly stolen by Andrew Bain. After pleading guilty only to the receiving charge, the stealing charge against Hamilton was dropped. Hamilton was sentenced to serve two and a half years at the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services.

A FIREMEN working to subdue a section of a wide ranging bush fire off Windsor Road yesterday. Photo: Oracle Media Consultants

More education is needed during Sexual Assault Awareness Month

MONDAY, April 1, marked the start of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This year, the theme is Building Connected Communities. It is recognition of our individual and collective responsibility to prevent sexual violence in all forms, from sexual harassment to rape. It is important for us to remember that:

1. Sexual violence is not only perpetrated by strangers. Most people who experience sexual violence know the perpetrators.

2. More than one in three women have experienced sexual violence.

3. Offenses recognised in the Sexual Offences Act include rape (with the exclusion of marital rape), indecent assault, serious indecency, and sex trafficking.

4. Marital rape is not yet criminalised.

5. Sexual violence is a spectrum, and sexual harassment—including street harassment—is included.

By Alicia Wallace

6. Consent is required for sexual activity. There is no substitute for consent and no excuse for acting without consent.

7. We have the power to reinforce and to rebuke gender stereotypes and gender-based violence, and we do it in our intentional and unintentional responses to the behavior of the people around us.

The general public may not be aware of the commitments The Government of The Bahamas has made to the people of The Bahamas through international mechanisms, and it has a duty to comply with ratified

international human rights mechanisms. The government also has a duty to make the general public aware of its commitments, its reports to international bodies for periodic reviews, recommendations made by the reviewing bodies, and its response to the recommendations. Successive administrations have completely failed to raise public awareness and education on human rights and its obligations to ensure access to all of our human rights.

In 1993, The Bahamas ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), also known as the women’s bill of rights. Article 5 of CEDAW calls on States to “modify the social and cultural patterns of conduct of men and women, with a view to achieving the elimination of prejudices and customary and all other practices which are based on the idea of the inferiority or the superiority of either of the sexes or on stereotyped roles for men and women”. Under this Article, the CEDAW Committee makes recommendations to States to address the issue of gender stereotyping and gender-based violence against women.

Since the adoption of CEDAW, the CEDAW Committee has also produced General Recommendation 35 which is specific to gender-based violence against women. In it, the States are called on to “ensure that all forms of gender-based violence against women in all spheres, which amount to a violation of their physical, sexual or psychological integrity, are criminalized and introduce, without delay, or strengthen, legal sanctions commensurate with the gravity of the offence, as well as civil remedies.” States are specifically called to “ensure that sexual assault, including rape, is characterised as a crime against the right to personal security and physical, sexual and psychological integrity and that the definition of sexual crimes, including marital and acquaintance or date rape, is based on the lack of freely given consent and

takes into account coercive circumstances.” It is clear, then, that the criminalisation of marital rape is required, necessary, and urgent.

CEDAW General Recommendation 35 also articulates the need for integration of gender equality into curricula at all education levels. This should address gender stereotyping and gender-based discrimination, and include the values of non-violent masculinities and comprehensive sexuality education. We must ensure that people, from a young age, understand what sex is and is not. Everyone needs to know that sex requires consent, that consent must be enthusiastically and freely given, that consent applies to a specific act at a specific time and is not transferrable, and that consent can be withdrawn at any time. There is a clear different between sex and rape, and this distinction must be taught before people become sexually active.

In 1995, The Bahamas ratified the Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment and Eradication of Violence against Women, also known as the Belém do Pará. It affirms that “violence against women constitutes a violation of their human rights and fundamental freedoms, and impairs or nullifies the observance, enjoyment and exercise of such rights and freedoms” and that “elimination of violence against women is essential for their individual and social development and their full and equal participation in all walks of life.” Article 2 states that Violence against women includes physical, sexual and psychological violence “that occurs within the family or domestic unit or within any other interpersonal relationship, whether or not the perpetrator shares or has shared the same residence with the woman, including, among others, rape, battery and sexual abuse” which means it includes marital rape. Further, Article 3 states the right of women to be free from violence in public and private spheres. That marital rape has not yet been criminalised in The Bahamas is a failure to come into compliance with the Belém do Pará as well as CEDAW.

Importantly, the Belém do Pará recognizes the intersection of identity and the resulting layers of oppression and discrimination that women differently. This means, for example, that women with disabilities, elderly women, and women experiencing poverty are among those who are more

likely to experience discrimination and violence and to face challenges in reporting and accessing justice in the absence of appropriate intervention.

“Rapists are, more often than not, partners, family friends,members, longtime family friends, ex- partners, and people in positions of authority.”

Reports of sexual violence continue to be in the news every week. Women live with the perpetual fear of being raped. Many still think rapists only lurk in bushes and around dark corners, trusting that people known to us are safe to be around. Rapists are, more often than not, partners, family members, friends, longtime family friends, ex-partners, and people in positions of authority. The abuse the power of familiarity, and they depend on shame, stigma, and silence to maintain their reputations and their freedom.

Changing this requires public education campaigns, comprehensive sexuality education in all schools and at all levels, elimination of stigma, survivor-centered reporting mechanisms, and legal reform that affirms the humanity and human rights of all women, regardless of marital status and any other identity markers.

Remember the Strategic Plan to Address GenderBased Violence?

This week, I saw the announcement of the National Strategic Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence and Sexual Violence of Trinidad and Tobago 2023-2027 which is expected to “empower [Trinidad and Tobago] to build capacity for curbing violence, a deeply entrenched problem that affects individuals across age, gender, and socio-economic lines” and “foster multi-sectoral collaboration in addressing gender-based violence (GBV) and its detrimental effects on families, communities, and the wider society, thereby allowing all of society to suitably approach challenges and serve our vulnerable populations in a comprehensive manner”.

Does this sound familiar? It may be because the Strategic Plan to Address

Gender-Based Violence in The Bahamas had multisectoral coordination as its first recommendation. The Plan was lauded by UN Women, said to be a model for the Caribbean. This is, of course, not the first time that The Bahamas has led the way, producing a report or taking a position, only to fail to implement or ensure substantive effects of the work, welcoming other, more committed countries to pass it by. The National Task Force on gender-based violence launched in 2013. It was chaired by Justice Rubie Nottage (retired), Dr. Sandra Dean-Patterson, and Dr. Robin Roberts. The Taskforce produced the Strategic Plan to Address Gender-Based Violence in 2015. With a vision “to eliminate GBV from our society completely by working together to maintain a zero-tolerance for GBV”, it focused on three core principles—prevention, protection, and accountability. The Plan noted that genderbased violence is “endemic in our communities and constitutes a major public health issue in our country”. In a section for immediate action, the Task Force identified “The Ten Low Hanging Fruit” which it considered to be practical and measurable. They included a national community awareness program on gender-based violence prevention, a focus on mentoring for men and boys, a sexual assault response team project, and an early intervention program for children exposed to violence.

At a forum held in New Providence in April 2016, UN Women’s Deputy Representative for the Caribbean Tonni Brodber said, “‘The 10 Low-lying Fruit’ concept, if successful, can signal to other countries how to successfully go about ending gender-based violence.” Ms Brodber added: “This will speak to all the better practices that we see around the world that are useful in reducing or ending gender-based violence. It shows the world that when the Commonwealth of The Bahamas says it is going to do something it is going to get it done.” Eight years later, the Strategic Plan to Address Gender-Based Violence has yet to be implemented. Perhaps The Bahamas will have to follow the lead of Trinidad and Tobago. It may implement its Plan before The Bahamas even bothers to update the one it created a Task Force to produce more than a decade ago. The proof of commitment is in the implementation.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Participate in National Poetry Writing Month (NaPoWriMo) . The prompt for April 1, fittingly, was “dupe”. The prompt for April 2 was “Who’s ya people?” Get in touch with Poinciana Paper Press to join the NaPoWriMo WhatsApp group to receive the daily prompts, read others’ work, and share your own.

2. Attend Women’s Wednesdays. On Wednesday at 6pm, Equality Bahamas will be in conversation with journalist Ava Turnquest about media literacy in The Bahamas. Register at tiny.cc/wwapril24.

3. Read How to Say Babylon by Safiya Sinclair. Feminist Book Club, coordinated by Poinciana Paper Press and Equality Bahamas, meets every third Wednesday of the month at 6pm in a hybrid format. On Wednesday, April 17, participants will discuss Sinclair’s memoir, described as a “reckoning with the culture that initially nourished but ultimately sought to silence her [and] her reckoning with patriarchy and tradition, and the legacy of colonialism in Jamaica.” It is on the long list for the 2024 OCM Books Prize for Caribbean Literature in the non-fiction category alongside Equal to Mystery: In Search of Harold Sonny Ladoo, by Christopher Laird and Harvesting Haiti: Reflections on Unnatural Disasters, by Myriam J.A. Chancy. The winners in the categories of Poetry, Fiction, and Non-fiction will be announced on April 7, 2024, and the overall winner will be announced on April 27 at the NGC Bocas Lit Fest in Trinidad. Register to join Feminist Book Club at tiny.cc/fbc2024. To advertise in

Not in the path of totality? You can still watch Monday’s total solar eclipse online

IF YOU’RE nowhere near the path of totality - such as here in The Bahamas - or if clouds spoil your view, you can still catch the total solar eclipse online.

Weather permitting, tens of millions who live along a narrow stretch from Mexico’s Pacific coast to eastern Canada can just look skyward Monday to glimpse day turn to twilight when the moon blots out the sun. Eclipse glasses are a must to prevent eye damage. The only time it’s safe to ditch protective glasses is during totality, or the few minutes of complete darkness.

Here are some alternatives if you’re clouded out during the eclipse or if you can’t travel to the path:

NASA goes live from different eclipse cities

NASA is offering several hours of streaming online and on NASA TV starting at 1 p.m. EDT from several cities along the totality path. The space agency will show telescope views of the sun and there will be appearances by scientists and space station astronauts. During the eclipse, small rockets will blast off from Wallops Island, Virginia, with science instruments into the electrically charged portion of the atmosphere near the edge of space known as the ionosphere.

AP hosts live show from totality path Associated Press journalists will fan out along the path of totality to bring live coverage of watch parties and festivities. The AP livestream

will start at 10 a.m. EDT with views from Mazatlán, Mexico, and other locations. Commentary will run from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. EDT featuring interviews with organizers, scientists and live views from along the path.

Telescopes and experiments focus on the sun

The Exploratorium museum will feature live telescope images of the sun from Junction, Texas, and Torreón, Mexico. Researchers and students from the University of Maine will launch high-altitude balloons in an experiment that will be livestreamed from the stratosphere.

Time and Date will show the sun from different telescope feeds. Slooh will broadcast from Texas and will have a network of partner telescopes along the path.

SCATHING FEDERAL REPORT RIPS MICROSOFT FOR SHODDY SECURITY, INSINCERITY IN RESPONSE TO CHINESE HACK

BOSTON

Associated Press

IN A scathing indictment of Microsoft corporate security and transparency, a Biden administration-appointed review board issued a report Tuesday saying “a cascade of errors” by the tech giant let state-backed Chinese cyber operators break into email accounts of senior U.S. officials including Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo.

The Cyber Safety Review Board, created in 2021 by executive order, describes shoddy cybersecurity practices, a lax corporate culture and a lack of sincerity about the company’s knowledge of the targeted breach, which affected multiple US agencies that deal with China.

It concluded that “Microsoft’s security culture was inadequate and requires an overhaul” given the company’s ubiquity and critical role in the global technology ecosystem. Microsoft products “underpin essential services that support national security, the foundations of our economy, and public health and safety.”

The panel said the intrusion, discovered in June by the State Department and dating to May “was preventable and should never have occurred,” blaming its success on “a cascade of avoidable errors.” What’s more, the board said,

Microsoft still doesn’t know how the hackers got in.

The panel made sweeping recommendations, including urging Microsoft to put on hold adding features to its cloud computing environment until “substantial security improvements have been made.”

It said Microsoft’s CEO and board should institute “rapid cultural change” including publicly sharing “a plan with specific timelines to make fundamental, security-focused reforms across the company and its full suite of products.”

In a statement, Microsoft said it appreciated the board’s investigation and would “continue to harden all our systems against attack and implement even more robust sensors and logs to help us detect and repel the cyber-armies of our adversaries.”

In all, the state-backed Chinese hackers broke into the Microsoft Exchange Online email of 22 organisations and more than 500 individuals around the world including the US ambassador to China, Nicholas Burns — accessing some cloud-based email boxes for at least six weeks and downloading some 60,000 emails from the State Department alone, the 34-page report said. Three think tanks and four foreign government entities, including Britain’s National Cyber Security Center, were among those compromised, it said.

The board, convened by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas in August, accused Microsoft of making inaccurate public statements about the incident — including issuing a statement saying it believed it had determined the likely root cause of the intrusion “when, in fact, it still has not.” Microsoft did not update that misleading blog post, published in September, until mid-March after the board repeatedly asked if it planned to issue a correction, it said.

Separately, the board expressed concern about a separate hack disclosed by the Redmond, Washington, company in January — this one of email accounts including those of an undisclosed number of senior Microsoft executives and an undisclosed number of Microsoft customers and attributed to state-backed Russian hackers.

The board lamented “a corporate culture that deprioritized both enterprise security investments and rigorous risk management.”

The Chinese hack was initially disclosed in July by Microsoft in a blog post and carried out by a group the company calls Storm-0558. That same group, the panel noted, has been engaged in similar intrusions — compromising cloud providers or stealing authentication keys so it can break into accounts — since at least 2009, targeting companies including Google, Yahoo, Adobe, Dow Chemical and Morgan Stanley.

AMAZON is removing Just Walk Out technology from its Amazon Fresh stores as part of an effort to revamp the grocery chain. The company’s well-known technology lets customers pay for items without standing in line and sends them receipts afterwards. Amazon says it will now be replaced by smart carts that allow customers to skip the checkout line but also see their spending in real time.

While redesigning Fresh stores in the past year, Amazon spokesperson Carly Golden said the company heard from customers who enjoy skipping the checkout line but also wanted to view their receipts and savings as they shopped. Golden said the smart carts will give customers these benefits as well as the convenience of skipping the checkout line. Amazon’s decision was first reported by The Information.

Seattle-based Amazon operates dozens of Fresh grocery stores across the country, most of which are in California, Illinois, Virginia and Washington state. The company also operates cashier-free convenience stores under the Amazon Go brand and owns Whole Foods, which it purchased in 2017 for $13.7 billion.

Despite predictions Amazon’s entry into the grocery sector would disrupt the market, the company has struggled to find what works.

In 2023, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy wrote in his annual letter to shareholders that Amazon was working to find the right formula that will allow it to have a larger impact on physical grocery. The company has shut down some Amazon Fresh and Go stores that weren’t living up to their promise and said early last year that it was pausing expansion on Fresh stores.

In November, the company reopened three Fresh stores in Los Angeles, California. Golden, the Amazon spokesperson, said the company is now focused on “selectively” opening new Fresh stores and remodeling the majority of its existing stores. Just Walk Out technology will continue to be offered in Amazon Go stores and some smaller Amazon Fresh stores in the UK, the company said. It will also continue offering the technology to third-party retailers.

THIS combination of photos shows the path of the sun during a total eclipse by the moon on August 21, 2017, near Redmond, Oregon. Photo: Ted S Warren/AP

Haiti’s surge in gang violence has led more than 53,000 to flee the capital in less than three weeks

PORT-AU-PRINCE Associated Press

MORE than 53,000 people have fled Haiti’s capital in less than three weeks, the vast majority to escape unrelenting gang violence, according to a United Nations report released Tuesday.

More than 60% are headed to Haiti’s rural southern region, which worries UN officials.

“Our humanitarian colleagues emphasized that these departments do not have sufficient infrastructure, and host communities do not have sufficient resources, to cope with the large number of people fleeing Port-au-Prince,” said UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

The southern region already hosts more than 116,000 Haitians who previously left Port-auPrince, according to the report by the UN’s International Organization for Migration.

The exodus from the capital of some 3 million people began shortly after powerful gangs launched a series of attacks on government institutions at the end of February. Gunmen have burned police stations, opened fire on the main international airport that remains closed and stormed Haiti’s two biggest prisons, releasing more than 4,000 inmates.

More than 1,500 people have been reported killed up to March 22, and another 17,000 have been left homeless, according to the UN

Among the rare travellers trying to head north instead of south from the capital were Marjorie Michelle-Jean, a 42-yearold street vendor, and her two children, ages 4 and 7.

“I want to see them

alive,” she said, explaining that stray bullets keep hitting the tin roof of their home. Last week, they tried twice to travel to her hometown of Mirebalais in central Haiti but were forced to turn back because of roadblocks.

“I will definitely try again,” she said. “It’s absolutely not safe in Port-au-Prince.”

Of the 53,125 people who fled Port-au-Prince from March 8-27, nearly 70% already had been forced to abandon their homes and were living with relatives or in crowded and unsanitary makeshift shelters across the capital, the UN found.

More than 90% of Haitians leaving the capital have been crowding into buses, risking travel through gang-controlled territory where gang rapes have been reported and gunmen have been known to open fire on public transport.

The violence forced Prime Minister Ariel Henry to announce last month that he would resign once a transitional presidential council is created. Henry was in Kenya to push for the UN-backed deployment of a police force from the East African country when the attacks began, and he remains locked out of Haiti.

The transitional council, which will be responsible for choosing a new prime minister and council of ministers, has yet to be formally established.

Meanwhile, the mass migration from Portau-Prince is expected to continue.

But Gary Dorval, 29, who was among a handful of people joining a demonstration on Tuesday, said he wants to stay until a new government is installed: “I want to be part of the change.”

A MAN walks past, near the National Palace in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, yesterday. Photo: Odelyn Joseph/AP

YOUTH take cover after hearing gunshots at a public school that serves as a shelter for people displaced by gang violence, in Port-auPrince, Haiti, Friday, March 22, 2024. Photo: Odelyn Joseph/AP

SIX STRAIGHT!

Team Bahamas wins 2024 CARIFTA Swimming Championships at home

As expected, Team Bahamas completed its dominance of the 2024 CARIFTA Swimming Championships with its sixth consecutive victory and the eighth out of the past nine titles.

Mission accomplished.

“This was definitely the most exciting CARIFTA that I’ve ever been to as a coach, a swimmer and a spectator. I’m really proud to be a part of this sixth straight team,” said Team Bahamas head coach Travano McPhee.

After four exciting days of competition, Team Bahamas accumulated a total of 1,096.50 points, well ahead of the Cayman Islands, who had 660. Trinidad & Tobago got 639 for third. Jamaica was fourth with 559 and Barbados rounded out the top five with 486.50.

On the strength of their victory, Team Bahamas collected a total of 102 medals, including 34 gold, 39 silver and 29 bronze. Trinidad & Tobago finished second in the medal count with 56 (24 gold, 15 silver and 17 bronze), while the Cayman Islands came in third with 48 medals (18 gold, 11 silver and 19 bronze).

“For four days, the team showed their resilience to their country and to their family. We are on the road to seven straight. We

CARIFTA CONTROVERSY: DRUMECO ARCHER ADDRESSES THE DRAMA

By TENAJH SWEETING Tribune Sports Reporter tsweeting@tribunemedia.net

THE curtains were finally closing on the 51st CARIFTA Games in St George’s, Grenada on Monday night, when controversy ensued in the final event of the track and field championships. The regional meet had its fair share of complications along the way but none bigger than the blatant blunder committed by officials during the under20 boys 4x400 metres relay

event at the Kirani James Athletics Stadium. The stage was seemingly set for the quartet of Zion Shepherd, Aiden Kelly, Javano Bridgewater and Berkley Munnings to jockey for a top three podium spot in the event’s finals as the team managed to qualify with the second fastest time of 3:12.51 in the prelims.

However, the CARIFTA meet and final track event was marred after officials fired the first shot to start the relay but the gun was then fired again indicating

that the race should stop. The Bahamas, Trinidad & Tobago along with Antigua and Barbuda stopped running after leaving the blocks and hearing the second shot but Jamaica, Grenada, Guyana and St Vincent and Grenadines continued the race. Despite the crowd’s loud pleas to stop the race, officials allowed the full 4x400m relay to continue even after the first exchange.

Following the completion of the relay event,

want to thank the Bahamas Government and the National Sports Authority for putting this all together with Bahamas Aquatics,”

McPhee said. “Three months ago, we were not sure if we were going to have this, but we have hosted 25 countries and we

had some very fast times in a very competitive meet, but Team Bahamas really held down their house.”

McPhee gave a lot of credit to his coaching staff for a job well done. They included Camron Bruney, David Del Cuato, Mancer Roberts Jr. and Allan Murray.

He noted that they are committed to continuing the dynasty as they not only go for a seventh straight title next year, but for 10 titles in total.

The performance came in front of Governor General Cynthia “Mother” Pratt, Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis, Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell, Minister of Education, Science and Technology Glenys HannaMartin and Minister of Youth, Sports and Culture Mario Bowleg. After presenting some of the medals, Davis addressed the crowd, acknowledging their participation from throughout the Caribbean region. He also commended Sara Dowden of Grenada and Bahamian Donald Saunders Jr, who both lost their

OVER the last few years, the field events have garnered lots of attention as Bahamian athletes have risen to the occasion time and time again at all levels and, at the 51st CARIFTA Games in St George’s, Grenada, the field athletes delivered in a

HISTORIC SIX-PEAT: The Bahamas’ swimming team members celebrate after winning the CARIFTA Games last night. Photos by Dante Carrer

Team Bahamas wins 2024 CARIFTA Swimming Championships at home

FROM PAGE 11

fathers as he encouraged them to “swim on.” Davis, who admitted that he’s both a swim-parent and grandparent, said he’s thrilled by the performances of Team Bahamas in going for the sixth straight title. He thanked all of the countries who came and wished them safe travel back home.

In completing their historic sixth straight, the final day of competition came down to a dramatic finish for Team Bahamas.

800m freestyle

As the competition got started in the final session, William Farrington claimed the silver in the boys 9:22.81. The gold went to Joey Schvatz of St Maarten in 9:18.32. The bronze went to Lennox TurnhamWheatley of the Cayman Islands in 9:28.93.

400m freestyle

Christon Joseph picked up another medal, but admitted that he was slightly disappointed that it was the bronze and not the gold in the boys 11-12 400m freestyle.

“This one was good. I dropped my time, but I didn’t do what I wanted to do. I wanted to win it,” he said. “Obviously, the other boys put-paced me and they held it to the end.”

50m freestyle

Tiah Seymour kicked off a series of medal winning performances for the Bahamas in the fastest race in the championships as she claimed the silver in the girls 11-12 50m freestyle in 28.43 to add to the gold she got in the 50m backstroke.

“I feel really good again winning another medal,”

Seymour said. “I didn’t start off too well because I was nervous, but I did my best and I took off a lot of time, so I am very proud of myself. I didn’t win as many medals as the last time, but I took off a lot of my times, so that was good.”

Bahamian Alissa Ferguson got fifth in 29.19 as the gold was won by Kia Alert of Jamaica in 27.55 and the bronze to Zara Persico of Trinidad & Tobago in 28.63.

“The race was great. I dropped my time from the preliminaries, so I think it’s a personal best for me,” Seymour said. “I was really pleased with my performance.”

With little time to rest, Bahamian Christon Johnson returned and posted a CARIFTA record in 25.78, clinching another gold medal in the boys 11-12 50m freestyle with his teammate Harold Simmons getting the silver in 26.59.

The bronze went to Jaythan Winterdal of Aruba in 28.09. “This was the best one yet,” Johnson said. “My start wasn’t that good, but I wasn’t going to lose this one. I knew we had a 1-2 punch with Harold, so we had this. We did it for God, we did it for our families and we did for The Bahamas.”

Simmons, who has traded places with Johnson during the championships, said he tried his best.

“I knew my best friend Christon swam very well and he was the CARIFTA champion, so it was really good to race against the record holder,” Simmons said.

Bahamian Rhanishka Gibbs had to settle for the

silver in the women’s 50m freestyle in 26.22, but she was still thrilled by her performance.

“I was very proud of myself. I always have a good time when I swim against Julian Crooks (from the Cayman Islands), so I thought it was a very good race,” Gibbs said.

The gold was won by Crooks in 26.20 and the bronze to Christanya Shirley of Jamaica in 26.56.

In his final event for the championships, Bahamian Marvin Johnson emerged as the gold medallist in the boys 15-17 50m free in 22.96.

The silver went to James Allyson of the Cayman Islands in 23.50 and the bronze to Tristan Dorville of St Lucia in 23.70.

“That was my last individual race and I finished with the gold, so I can’t complain,” Johnson said. “I’m happy for the

memories and for the competition, especially in this pool. I think I will remember this crowd forever.”

In the 18-and-over, collegian Lamar Taylor got the silver in 22.32.

The gold went to Paris Olympic qualifier Dylan Carter of Trinidad & Tobago in 21.98 and the bronze to Stefano Mitchell of Antigua in 22.99. Bahamian Joshua Murray was fifth in 24.85. 100m breaststroke Bahamian Isabella Cuccurullo said she expected to do well because the breaststroke was her best event and she did, getting a silver in the girls 13-14 100m breaststroke in 1:23.83.

“I feel good. This was another breaststroke that I wanted to win another medal, so I feel it was a great achievement,” Currurullo said. “I feel very good about my times. I did very well.”

Kia Alert of Jamaica got the gold in 1:21.52 and the bronze went to Saniya Minnis of Barbados in 1:23.93. Sienna Campbell, also of the Bahamas, was sixth in 1:29.18. 200m backstroke

In the 11-12 200m backstroke Alissa Ferguson got the gold in 2:42.09. Skyler Smith got the bronze in 2:45.70. Aliyah Greaves of Barbados got the bronze in 2:47.27.

“It feels good. I was very tired in the race, but I saw my teammates and she really pushed me to get this gold,” Ferguson said. “This was my last race so I really wanted to get the gold. I’m glad that I finished with the gold.” The boys 11-12 200m back saw Harold Simmons pick up another silver for Team Bahamas in 2:30.45. Fellow Bahamian Blake Comarcho got fifth in 2:43.99.

Mihael Sobers of Barbados was the gold medallist in 2:29.95 and Rory Shepherd of Bermuda got the bronze in 2:36.44.

Elle Theberge secured the final individual medal for Team Bahamas in the girls 15-17 200m back in 2:29.94. The gold went to Zari Ferguson of Trinidad & Tobago in 2:16.04 and Sierah Broadbelt of the Cayman Islands got the silver in 2:28.95, 200m freestyle relay Team Bahamas started the final series of 4x200m relays with a victory in the girls 11-12 200m freestyle in 1:57.50, added another in the boyas 11-12 in 1:49.20, a silver in the girls 13-14 in 1:54.25 and a bronze in the boys 13-14 in 1:43.30.

The exclamation mark on the title came in the final relay as the boys 15-17 team of Ellie Gibson, Tristin Ferguson, Tresten Hepburn and Marvin Johnson captured the victory in 1:34.76 over Trinidad & Tobago (1:35.28) and Jamaica (1:36.72).

That set off a barrage of fireworks before the presentation of awards took place to bring the curtain down on what has turned out to be one of the most thrilling CARIFTA swimming championships ever held.

But no sporting celebration is complete in The Bahamas without the rhythmic sound of junkanoo as the swimmers and the spectators participated in a rush-out.

The focus now shifts to Trinidad & Tobago for the hosting of next year’s CARIFTA and the quest for seventh heaven for Team Bahama.

CARIFTA CONTROVERSY: DRUMECO ARCHER ADDRESSES THE DRAMA

officials deliberated for a few moments and opted to allow The Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda and Trinidad & Tobago to run again. The relay team ran 3:11.13 which would have earned them a bronze medal in the event but ultimately they were disqualified due to a line infringement.

Drumeco Archer, president of the Bahamas Association of Athletic Associations (BAAA), weighed in on the bizarre ending of the 51st CARIFTA Games. “It was quite a bizarre ending and quite a colourful ending for Team Bahamas. This has been quite an experience for us. We have gone through highs and lows and this certainly wasn’t the outcome I expected. “We thought that we would’ve done a lot better on the track but I can certainly tell you that

the field really saved the day for Team Bahamas,” Archer said. The BAAA president also addressed the speculations regarding whether sprinters Carlos Brown Jr and Jeremiah Adderley were unable to compete in the 200m heats on Sunday morning due to injury or another reason.

“On the issue of the men’s 200m, it was very disappointing. We don’t like when athletes decide that they cannot run.

When you decide that you do not want to run, the result is that you are removed from competition.

“There was no injury. I will not mislead you by saying that there was an injury. When you decide that you are not gonna show up for competition, the federation would have taken a clear position because you are here representing The Bahamas, that is one issue. The rule is that once you do not show for an event you are removed from the entire

competition so, either way, those guys would not have run. We are here to represent the country, we spend a lot of money and I couldn’t imagine why they could not run a 200m when they have trained for it every year and all day long,” the BAAA president said.

Team Bahamas’ head coach Caudell McNab echoed the sentiments of Archer and gave some insight on the debacle from a coach’s perspective.

“They were told that they were on the list. They initially told me that they didn’t feel like running it and I told them they entered so the most they can do is get out there and deliver.

“Carlos kept saying he didn’t feel like running it. If you are here for an event and you are not showing medical reasons for not competing, I think you should compete. It was also too late to scratch any of them and I

expected them to at least show up to the start. They did not show up and the rule is if you do not show up for an event, especially on the same day, you cannot participate in the next event,” coach McNab said. Both athletes were unable to compete for the under-20 boys’ 4x100m relay team.

Team Bahamas managed to pick up a total of 33 medals in Grenada despite some of the top athletes being shut down due to injury.

Eagan Neely wrapped up his second CARIFTA experience with two bronze medals earned in the under-17 boys’ 400m finals and 4x100m finals. Unfortunately, Neely, who battled nagging injuries all season, dove to get The Bahamas a bronze medal in the relays which resulted in him suffering an apparent hip injury. Ishmael Rolle had high expectations for himself coming into

the Easter weekend but the CARIFTA Games ended early for him when he suffered what appeared to be a hamstring injury in the under-17 boys’ 100m heats on day one.

Archer talked about the role the injury bug played with regards to Team Bahamas at the 2024 CARIFTA Games. “Some of our athletes got dinged up throughout the course of competition. “Ishmael Rolle early on day one had a hamstring strain so he was pulled out of the competition, he added. “We expected to win the under17 girls’ 4x400m but of course Keyezra Thomas had hamstring issues as well then we go back to Nya Wright who also had issues with her hamstring,” he explained. The Bahamas came away with nine gold medals, 13 silver medals and 11 bronze medals to cap off the meet with 33 medals.

AN HISTORIC SIX-PEAT: The Bahamas’ swimming team members celebrate after winning the CARIFTA Swimming Championships at the Betty Kelly Kenning Swim Complex last night. Photos by Dante Carrer

VICTORY SWEET: Coach Travano McPhee celebrates with the The Bahamas’ swimming team after they won the CARIFTA Swimming Championships.

Antoan Richardson coaching a new team

By BRENT STUBBS Chief Sports Editor bstubbs@tribunemedia.net

AS the 2024 Major League baseball season got underway. Antoan Richardson has found himself coaching a new team.

Richardson, 40, joins the New York Mets staff as the first base coach after serving in the same role for the San Francisco Giants from 2020–2023.

“It’s closer to home.

Family and friends are like such an important piece to this,” said Richardson in his change from the West coast to the Atlantic coast.

“So just being able to be close to people you love is amazing. So I definitely enjoy being closer to the Bahamas.”

The deal will allow Richardson to also oversee baserunning and outfield instruction. He joined the San Francisco organisation in 2019 as the minor league field coordinator.

However, since the season got started, the Mets have lost their first four games, but playing in such a passionate city for sports and baseball in particular, Richardson said there’s a lot of pressure to win.

“It’s been a slow start, but we look to get over the hump and get things rolling,” said Richardson, whose Mets were scheduled to play their fifth game of the season last night against the 4-0 Detroit Tigers. As a new fit in the New York pinstripe uniform, Richardson said he’s eager to make a difference in their quest to succeed.

“Coming into a new system, you really want to learn and understand the systems and the processes that are already in place,” Richardson said. “And then when you have a good understanding of that, you blend some of

40-YEAR-OLD JOINS NEW YORK METS AS FIRST BASE COACH

the information you learn overtime to help out.

“So right now, it’s just understanding the system and how we can blend together to push forward. But it’s been a pretty good fit so far. I’m around people who are open minded and want to look at unique ways to succeed.”

One of the things Richardson is really looking forward to is the matchup between the Mets and the Miami Marlins with Bahamian outfielder Jasrado “Jazz” Chisholm as they are now a part of the National League East. Both teams were winless heading into last night’s matches. While New York was 0-4 against the undefeated Detroit, Miami was 0-5 going into their game last night against the Los Angeles Angels, who are 2-2. “It’s going to be fun to compete against Jazz a couple more times during the year,” Richardson said. “It’s always good when you have fellow countrymen on the same field. “So, yeah, I’m looking forward

NEW York Mets’ Francisco Alvarez, centre, celebrates with first base coach Antoan Richardson (66) as he runs the bases after hitting a home run during the second inning

to the little rivalry we will have with each other and the trash talking we will have. It’s definitely one of the highlights for me and I definitely have it circled on the calendar.” Richardson and the Mets will square off against Chisholm and the Marlins in the first of a three-game series at the loanDepot Park in Miami from May 17-19. Then, they head to the City Field in New York a three-game series from June 11-13. Prior to his

coaching career, Richardson played professionally from 2005–2016 in a career that spanned 12 seasons and included 22 games at the major league level (nine with the Braves in 2011 and 13 with the Yankees in 2014).

MIAMI (AP) — Tyler Anderson pitched seven scoreless innings, Aaron Hicks homered and the Los Angeles Angeles beat Miami 3-1 on Tuesday, sending the Marlins to their worst start in franchise history.

Anderson (1-0) scattered four hits, walked two and struck out five. The lefthander was lifted after 83 pitches.

Hicks’ solo blast in the fourth put the Angels ahead 1-0. He drove a fastball from Miami starter Jesús Luzardo inside the foul pole in right for his first hit with Los Angeles, snapping an 0-for-11 start.

The Angels increased their lead on run-scoring singles from Hicks and Taylor Ward in the sixth.

Bryan De La Cruz homered in the ninth inning for the Marlins, who lost their sixth straight game to start the season.

Luzardo (0-1) gave up three runs and four hits, walked two and struck out five over 5 1/3 innings.

Logan O’Hoppe doubled and singled for the Angels, who won their third straight after starting the season with consecutive losses at defending AL East champion Baltimore.

Angels rookie Nolan Schanuel, of neighboring Boca Raton, walked twice, extending his career-starting on base streak to 34 games.

After Matt Moore relieved Anderson and pitched a perfect eighth, Luis García allowed De La Cruz’s one-out solo homer and walked Jazz Chisholm Jr. García retired Tim Anderson on a groundout and struck out pinch hitter Jesús Sánchez for his first save.

Angels shortstop Zach Neto made a diving stab of Josh Bell’s hard smash in the hole and threw Bell out at first for the second out in the sixth.

MILWAUKEE (AP)

— Jackson Chourio singled in a run in his first American Family Field plate appearance, Christian Yelich homered and the Milwaukee Brewers beat the Minnesota Twins 3-2 yesterday to open a season with four straight wins for the first time since 2006. Chourio stepped to the plate with the bases loaded in the third inning after consecutive one-out singles by Rhys Hoskins, Oliver Dunn and Turang. The 20-year-old followed with an RBI single into shallow right field.

Chourio, who signed an $82 million, eight-year contract in the offseason before making his big league debut, is hitting .400 (6 for 15).

Home after a three-game sweep at the New York Mets, the Brewers never trailed in front of a sellout crowd of 41,659 that saved its biggest cheers for the introduction of Bob Uecker as he began his 54th season of broadcasting Brewers baseball. Brice Turang went 2 for 3 with an RBI single, improving his batting average to .500 (7 for 14).

Milwaukee is 4-0 for the fourth time after winning its first 13 games in 1987 and its first five in 1978 and 2006.

Detroit Tigers and winless New York Mets was postponed by rain. The game will be made up at 1:10 p.m. on Thursday, originally an off day for both teams.

ROYALS 4, ORIOLES 1

BALTIMORE (AP) —

Alec Marsh pitched seven innings of two-hit ball, Maikel Garcia drove in three runs and Kansas City breezed past Baltimore. Marsh (1-0) turned in the best performance of his budding career, dominating the defending AL East champions with an exceptional display of control. He struck out five, walked one and retired the side in order five times. The Orioles gave their supporters little reason to stand up and cheer. Baltimore’s only run came in the third inning on successive doubles by Jordan Westburg and Colton Cowser, but that only served to cut their deficit to 3-1.

ANGELS 3, MARLINS 1 MIAMI (AP) — Tyler Anderson pitched seven scoreless innings, Aaron Hicks homered and the Los Angeles Angeles beat Miami. Anderson (1-0) scattered four hits, walked two and struck out five. The left-hander was lifted after 83 pitches. Hicks’ solo blast in the fourth put the Angels ahead 1-0. He drove a

fastball from Miami starter Jesús Luzardo inside the foul pole in right for his first homer with Los Angeles. The Angels increased their lead on run-scoring singles from Hicks and Taylor Ward in the sixth.

Bryan De La Cruz homered in the ninth inning for the Marlins, who lost their sixth straight game to start the season.

RAYS 5, RANGERS 2

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — Zach Eflin took a shutout into the seventh inning, Isaac Paredes hit a three-run homer in a fourrun fifth and Tampa Bay beat Texas.

Eflin (1-1) allowed three of his five hits and lone run in the seventh, then was removed after Jonah Heim’s one-out RBI single. Heim also had a two-out run-scoring single in the ninth off Pete Fairbanks, who retired Leody Tavares on a game-ending flyout with with two on. Tampa Bay has a home run and stolen base in each of its first six games, matching Cleveland in 1998 as the only teams since 1901 to accomplish the feat.

Yandy Díaz, hitless in his previous 11 at-bats, put the Rays up 1-0 with a third-inning RBI single that deflected off pitcher

Andrew Heaney’s glove and into right field. Randy Arozarena hit a two-out, run-scoring single on a 3-2 pitch off

ANTOAN Richardson

Samuel ‘Marathon Man’ Williams dies at age of 71

Man’ Williams, also known as a community activist with his Bahamas Loving Care Association, felt that he never properly understood or got the recognition for his service rendered.

Williams, who died on March 25 at the age of 71, was one of the country’s premier long-distance runners The Bahamas has ever produced.

For more than a decade (70s and 80s), he dominated the local long distance running circuit and helped The Bahamas develop an even better attitude towards long distance running.

He had an unwavering spirit when it came to training. Sam went all out at great expense to condition himself, physically and nutritionally, to withstand the demand of distance running.

He did not have a personal nutritionist available, he got no assistance from the Bahamas Association of Athletic Association (BAAA) in terms of his preparation for races.

Williams operated in isolation, because of the system.

He got no subvention, nothing at all. What he wasn’t able to “scrape up” in donations, had to come out of his pockets.

However, he has an iconic and nationalistic outlook. God gave him a talent, and he did his very best to maximise the gift.

“The Marathon Man,” a name earned from running races for charity, became one of the founders of the Bain Town Flyers.

At the age of 17 he fell in love with track & field and was a member of the Prime Minister’s Task Force.

He taught at CI Gibson Junior High School where he formed and trained two cross-country teams - one (1) for boys and one (1) for girls.

Williams introduced marathons in school for the first time. He ran along cyclists during a Salvation Army sponsored bike-a-thon. Halfway through the race, the rain came down.

When the cyclist stopped, Sam, accompanied by three members of the Bain Town Flyers and one member of the Pioneers continued to the finish line.

He organised a 30-mile bike/run/walkathon to help raise funds for his brother’s kidney ailment.

Although his brother passed away a day before the event the monies raised were donated to The Kidney Foundation to help someone else.

He was also the originator for “The Sir Milo Butler Memorial Road Race”. He participated in a 26-mile marathon in New York with over 30,000 participants where he placed 7th overall and always said if he had a coach to tell him his position, he may have won the race because he had so much more left in him.

Williams held track and field clinics on numerous of the family islands and ran a 12 ¼ mile “Run for a Child” road race in Freeport, Grand Bahama, where he captured 1st place prize.

In 1985, he along with others competed a bike/ run/walk-a-thon in aid of Ethiopian famine victims.

The event was a huge success. He held clinics for joggers and other people interested in physical fitness.

His first clinic was held on R. M. Bailey field, free of charge.

Additionally, Williams was a taxi tour driver for several years, making a

After returning home from college, where he graduated with an associate degree in physical education from Hampton Community College in New Jersey, he became a physical education teacher by profession.

lasting impression with whoever graced his town car. Tourists from all over the world would write back expressing their favourable experience while visiting the Bahamas and touring the island with Sam. Everyone knows Taxi “688”.

Being a tour driver allowed him the flexibility to dedicate himself to running a community service organisation, when he founded The Bahamas

Loving Care Association - a social minded organisation responsible for various acts of kindness and assisted to ordinary Bahamiansyoung and old.

TORONTO (AP) — LeBron James scored 23 points, Anthony Davis had 21 points and 12 rebounds and the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Toronto Raptors 128-111 on Tuesday night for their seventh win in eight games.

WIZARDS 117, BUCKS 113

WASHINGTON (AP) — Corey Kispert scored 27 points and Deni Avdija added 23 to help Washington beat Milwaukee despite Giannis Antetokounmpo’s triple-double. Antetokounmpo had 35 points, 15 rebounds and 10 assists and reached double figures in all three

D’Angelo Russell shot 7 for 14 from 3-point range and scored 25 points, Rui Hachimura had 14 and Max Christie 12 as the Lakers handed slumping Toronto a 14th straight loss. The NBA’s career scoring leader, James shot 10 for 12 and had nine assists. James came in having matched his career high with nine 3-pointers in Sunday’s win at Brooklyn. The 20-time All-Star took just one shot from distance against the Raptors, connecting with 5.22 left in the third quarter. Davis sat the entire fourth quarter, while James checked out with 9:22 remaining in the final period after Los Angeles extended its lead to 27, 109-82. The Lakers visit the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night.

categories by the end of the third quarter. That wasn’t enough for Milwaukee, which came into the night with a 2 1/2-game lead over Cleveland for the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference.

Jordan Poole had 16 points and a career-high 13 assists for Washington, and Jared Butler provided a lift off the bench with 17 points. Tristan Vukcevic, a 7-foot rookie from Serbia whom the Wizards signed in the middle of last month, scored 14. His previous career high was six. Washington led 58-54 at halftime, then began the third quarter on a 12-1 run to stretch the lead to 15. Milwaukee shot 11 of 48 from 3-point range on

the night, but the Bucks finally made a few near the end of the third, including Jae Crowder’s shot at the buzzer that cut the lead to five.

HEAT 109, KNICKS 88

MIAMI (AP) — Terry Rozier scored 34 points, capped by a beat-the-shotclock 3-pointer in the final minute, and Miami inched closer to an Eastern Conference playoff spot by holding off New York.

Jimmy Butler scored 17 points, Bam Adebayo added 15 and Haywood Highsmith finished with 14 for the Heat.

Miami had a 16-point lead cut to one with 3:23 remaining, but found a way to hang on —

He organised a shuttle bus to pick up the kids throughout the communities to attend Youth Alive Summer Event.

He gave senior citizens limousine tours around the island and free physical therapy.

Bahamas

Loving Care Association petitioned for the under-construction Harold Road to be renamed in honour of “Golden Girl” Tonique Williams Darling. It was because of Sam Williams’ determination, the Tonique Williams Darling Highway was named after such a deserving young lady.

In January 2001, the Butler’s Family presented Sam Williams a plaque for “Outstanding Achievement “In Naming of The Sir Milo Butler Highway” in New Providence.

Sam Williams has contributed to the following major achievements in which The Bahamas has benefited significantly.

Some are the following:

- Wheelchair Accessibility in public buildings;

- Lifeguard on public beaches;

- Traffic lights and speed bumps on busy street on the island;

- Sign Language on television for the hearing impaired;

- Waist catchers for Horse & Surrey– Bahamas Loving Care Association in conjunction with The Teachers and Salaried Workers Community Credit Union donated Surrey poop sack to keep the streets clean especially in The Downtown Area.

Williams was an advocate for Unsung Heroes because he was one himself...

- The Victor King Story (January 21st, 1951 – March 14th, 1994)

He spends his time, talent and finances assisting senior citizens and raising money for community related work and underprivileged children and their families. Williams gave excursions on the Glass Bottom Boat, tennis lessons and Horse & Surrey rides to the less fortunate year-round. He along with the late Dr. Patrick Roberts hosted an Annual Christmas Party for the children of various communities.

A local hero who died while saving the lives of four children from their burning home.

The children were left at home while their mother went to the store. A fire started in the Fort Fincastle home not far from The Princess Margaret Hospital.

King saw the flames and heard the cry of a mother saying to her children that her children were inside. He retrieved two children from the burning home when the mother stated that two additional children were still inside.

King re-entered the burning home and retrieved the other two children when he collapsed at the front door.

Unconscious, King was taken to the hospital where he died two weeks later.

Williams and The Bahamas Loving Care Association from that day has pleaded for the government to recognise Mr King as a “national hero’’. Williams put his own life on the line to save the lives of four children that dreadful day.

King was a security guard and parking lot attendant at The Princess Margaret Hospital at the time of his demise.

Williams begged the then Government to rename the Accident and Emergency section after Victor King. Sam Williams “The Marathon Man” achievements:

1. Governor’s

CARIFTA GAMES: FIELD ATHLETES TAKE HOME 23 OUT OF 33 MEDALS

FROM PAGE 11

Team Bahamas returned home with 9 gold medals, 13 silver medals and 11 bronze medals yesterday at the Lynden Pindling International Airport.

Eight out

the nine gold

belong to Brenden Vanderpool (boys pole vault), Joshua Williams (under-17 boys long and high jump), J’Kaiyah Rolle (under-17 girls long jump), Taysha Stubbs (under-20 girls javelin throw), Kaden Cartwright (under20 boys javelin), Dior-Rae Scott (under-17 girls javelin throw) and Anaiah Rolle (girls pole vault). A trio of Bahamians also paired their gold medal performances with new CARIFTA records.

Dior-Rae Scott removed her teammate Kamera Strachan’s former CARIFTA record of 46.07m in the under-17 girls javelin throw and posted a new mark of 52.53m over the weekend. Anaiah Rolle is now a co-CARIFTA record holder but the sole gold medallist in the girls pole vault (open). She cleared St Lucian Naya Jules’ former CARIFTA pole vault record of 2.80m by notching a 2.90m mark.

Brenden Vanderpool did it again. Vanderpool surpassed his former CARIFTA and national record of 5.06m and moved it up to 5.30m at his final CARIFTA Games.

The BAAA president used the word “spectacular” to describe the performances of the newest CARIFTA record holders.

“Dior-Rae has won a medal at every CARIFTA Games that she has participated in and I think that is nothing short of amazing for her. To see how far she has improved is just something that is so special for such a small kid.

I think when you look at Anaiah Rolle this is a new introduction to the event for women and she is in the top of her class…We know that The Bahamas is driving the sport in that area so we are happy about that as well,” he said. The Bahamas collected eight out of the 13 silver medals

totalled from the field events. The CARIFTA silver medallists were Alexandria Komolafe (under17 girls high jump), Tyler Cash (boys pole vault), Vanessa Sawyer (under-20 girls javelin throw), Annae Mackey (under-20 girls shot put), Bernard Kemp (under20 boys long jump), Claudius Burrows (under-17 boys high jump), Kamera Strachan (under17 girls javelin throw), and Terrell McCoy (under-17 girls shot put).

Additionally, more than half of the 11 bronze medals counted were secured in the field events. Jaylen Stuart (under-17 boys shot put), McCoy (under-17 girls discus throw), Davon Davis (under-17 boys triple jump), Lanaisha Lubin (under-20 girls long jump), Kemp (under-20 boys high jump), Rollie Hanna (under-20 boys triple jump) and Shamar Davis (under20 boys high jump) all finished as bronze medallists. Team Bahamas was unable to nab a gold medal in any of the track events, making zero their lowest medal total in this regard since 2022. As for the field events, it was the highest number of gold medals achieved by Team Bahamas since 2018. The Bahamas finished second at the CARIFTA Games for a fifth straight year and Jamaica won for the 38th year in a row with 83 medals. Trinidad and Tobago rounded up 27 medals for third.

and Rozier’s

eighth 3-pointer of the night with 34 seconds left, just in front of the New York bench, sealed the win. Donte DiVincenzo scored

31 points for New York, while Deuce McBride added 24 and Jalen Brunson finished with 20 points and 10 assists.

SAMUEL ‘Marathon

of

medals