Former national netball players and coaches Peggy Castanada and Jennifer Frank are among a group of coaches that will bring their expertise to young players through the “Back 2 Basic” Netball Programme, the brainchild of the Tunapuna/Piarco Regional Corporation.

Castanada and Frank, who were part of the historic national team that emerged joint champion at the 1979 World Netball Championships, will impart their knowledge to the youngsters in their own communities.

In a release recently, the corporation, expressed its commitment to revamping the sport of netball nationwide and using netball as a conduit to strengthen communities.

Castanada will operate at the Damarie Hill Recreation Ground while Frank will be at the Maloney Netball Court. The other coaches include Margaret Francis (Manzanilla Recreation Ground), Jacqueline Morris (Arima Netball Court), Antoinette Gaskin (Bon Air Netball Court), Grace Parkinson-Griffith (Maracas St Joseph Netball Court), Veronica Mc Donald-Nicholl (Mt Hope Netball Court), Anne Marie Dickson-Lewis (Chinapoo Government) and Nikeisha Felix-Lewis (La Fillette Netball Court), current nationa player Kielle Connelly (Manzanilla) and Daniella Hall (Damarie Hill).

At a “Meet and Greet” function last month at the Arima Town Hall which included representatives from the participating corporations, coaches and participants in the programme, Councillor Michael Castellano welcomed the gathering to the Borough of Arima and congratulated the Tunapuna/Piarco Regional Corporation Chair and his team for spearheading the initiative and including the neighbouring corporations.

Alderman Onika Haynes brought greetings from the Tunapuna/Piarco Regional Corporation and expressed gratitude for all the support thus far. She lamented the importance of programmes for our youth. She added that this is an opportunity to teach them strong values in discipline, teamwork, sense of community all while developing their netball skills so that we can take netball back to the days of Jean Pierre when netball was one of the top teams in the world.

The intended programme will utilise netball as a channel to contribute to the holistic development of the young girls within the communities. The participants will be taught by certified coaches, past national players, past national coaches who reside in the communities in which they will be coaching.

The programme will introduce girls between the ages of seven and 13 to the fundamentals of the game at an early age to unearth young talent in the communities to contribute to rebuilding netball as the premier women’s sport in T&T.

It is becoming even more important to re-establish the foundations of culture and sport across the nation, in a concerted effort to foster the involvement in positive activities within the communities and promote the importance of living healthy lifestyles.

The programme will be conducted in three phases with Phase I which has already started and runs until September.

The three-month programme will be conducted in the following regional corporations, Tunapuna/Piarco, Arima, San Juan/Laventille and the Sangre Grande.

In Phase II, January to March 2019, the three-month programme will be open to include all Regional Corporations and in Phase III, from May to October 2019, the programme will be run for six months throughout all the corporations and culminate in National Regional Youth Netball Competition.

New champions were crowned in almost every category at this year’s BCQS Queen’s Park Cricket Club’s (QPCC) Squash Masters Tournament at the QPCC Racquet Centre, Port of Spain last week.

Suriname’s 2017 champion Joao Wong A Foe made his presence felt by claiming the titles in both the Master In Training (MIT) 25-34B/35-44 B Divisions. In a hotly contested final Wong showed his class by defeating T&T’s Tang Nian in straight sets 11-5, 11-3, 11-8.

The 35-44A Division provided a stiffer contest, featuring some of the tournament’s top players, as the 2016/2017 runner-up from QPCC Marc Pontifex, Bahamian Ryan Reid- the 2015 runner-up, Petrotrin ace Peter Pirtheesingh and champion Paul De Verteuil who entered the tournament late but progressed to the final after a series of impressive displays.

De Verteuil eventually defeated Pontifex in the final following a marathon five matches 11-10, 11-8, 6-11, 10-11, 11-9 to retained the crown he won last year.

Meanwhile, the 55-64 division was without the two pre-tournament favourites as John Holley, the tournament’s defending champion was out of the country and Richard Hart opted to contest in the 45-54 division instead.

However, the battle was not without quality as Gerard Edghill, Roger Galt, David Scott and Rudy Wong A Foe emerged from the group stage and into the semi-final, where Edghill got the better of Galt for the right to be in the final 11-9, 11-7, 9-11, 11-10, and Wong clinched the other final spot by virtue of whipping Scott in three sets 11-2, 11-4, 11-6.

In the final, however, Wong A Foe took the title in straight sets 11-4, 2-11, 6-11, 11-9, 11-2. There were also titles for Brandon de Montrichard, claiming the 25-34 A age group/round-robin playoffs, with Luc Davis and Zachary Loquan taking second and third positions respectively, David Lanser also whipped Julien Henry in three games 11-9, 11-9, 11-9 for the 45-54 division and Beverly Wilson coming back from two games down to edge out Cathy De Gannes-Martin in five games 10-11, 3-11, 11-10, 11-8, 11-2 for the women’s title.

In the 5+ division, Winston Findlay of the British Virgin Islands emerged victorious over squash stalwart Neal Ramasra in the final.

The tournament featured 56 competitors from Barbados, Bahamas, Suriname, British Virgin Islands, Curacao, Germany and T&T.

WALTER ALIBEY
 

GEORGETOWN – West Indies captain Jason Holder has backed young batting star Shimron Hetmyer to start notching big scores soon, and has encouraged him to spend more time at the crease in order to achieve this.

The 21-year-old top-scored with 52 in Sunday’s first One-Day International against Bangladesh as West Indies failed to overhaul 279 and plunged to a 48-run defeat at the National Stadium at Providence.

“It’s something he and I have been talking about for a little while. He’s been probably one of the better players of spin in our dressing room and he is also one of the few left-handers we have in the middle order,” explained Holder.

“I’ve just encouraged him to go deep. I spoke to him [on Saturday night] before the game and one of the things we spoke about is him batting down to at least the 35th over before he starts to expand.

“Probably the situation in [yesterday’s] game would have maybe dictated he go a bit deeper than the 35th, down to probably the 40th and giving the hitters at the end enough leeway to come in and execute their game.”

Hetmyer was playing only his 10th ODI after making his debut last December on the tour of New Zealand. He smashed his maiden hundred -127 against United Arab Emirates – in the World Cup qualifiers in Zimbabwe last March.

He has managed a number of starts in his other innings without carrying on but Holder believes his ability to convert will come with increased experienced.

“He’s a young talented player and I think he will learn as time goes on, and I think we just have to invest some time in him,” said the all-rounder.

West Indies were looking dangerous when Hetmyer was involved in a 40-run third wicket stand with superstar opener Chris Gayle who made 40 from 60 balls, with a four and a pair of sixes.

However, tragedy struck in the 22nd over when Hetmyer turned down a quick single to shirt third man with Gayle past the point of no return, leaving the Windies’ most experienced batsman stranded.

While Gayle was not his usual explosive self, Holder said there was no cause for concern.

“Everybody expects Gayle to be his normal dominant self. We just want him to impose himself on the power-play – he’s been one to do that,” Holder pointed out.

“Maybe the surface isn’t one that you can blast through the power-play as such but he adjusted his game really well and picked up a few singles for us up front. He obviously got his odd boundary here and there and I thought he was looking pretty good.

“It’s just unfortunate with the run out. Obviously we just need to tighten up on that area as well.”

The second ODI is set for today at the same venue. CMC

Emancipation Day has tremendous significance for the country in general and the horse racing industry in T&T in particular.

August 1 promises to be no different with a very competitive card of racing in store. By the time this article is being read, the entries for Emancipation Day would already be known but the main feature events, the Presidents Cup and the T&T Breeders Classic had their final nominations paid some weeks earlier and so we are able to take a look at the main protagonists in these two important events on the racing calendar.

The Classic is a relatively young race on the racing calendar but has quickly grown in popularity amongst racing fans and owners alike.

Usually contested before the Derby, last year it was switched to after the Derby, but it is satisfying to know that it has now reverted to its prior position as a prep race for the locally bred horses for the Derby but also an important race in its own right.

This edition is probably one of the most competitive in its recent history with not only no outstanding runner on show but also no obvious stayer among the leading contenders.

Twenty (20) horses paid their final subscriptions for the race of which, only ten of them are previous winners including Affirmative, Blazing Gem, Fake News, Khal Drogo, No Man’s Land, Princess Sophia, Santa Cruz Lady, So Be It, Strategic Patience and Streaking Far.

Of the maidens, Lois Lane, Man of Tomorrow, Smarty Jon and Usain have all shown ability but might not be ready to win a race of this nature.

The leading contenders for this race are undoubtedly the first three in the Royal Colours Classic – Princess Sophia, Streaking Far and Affirmative.

Princess Sophia is a beautifully bred filly who was brought into this country in utero. After winning two of her first three starts including the Classic, she somewhat lost her way after a minor injury but returned to winning ways in a, 1200 metres sprint on her last start. She has not won beyond 1,300m and that must be the major question mark over her in this 1,800m race.

Streaking Far has been a model of consistency and followed up her second in the Classic with wins over 1,750m, a runner-up finish in the Guineas and a fourth-place finish in the Midsummer Classic. The latter was a very disappointing performance because she was strongly fancied to be at least second. If she is able to return to the form of her Guineas second, she should take all of the beating.

Affirmative was third in the RC Classic but returned to devastate a maiden field over 1,100m before finishing an excellent third in Midsummer Classic, ahead of Streaking Far. He is quite fast and does not appear to be a stayer but he may not need to be a stout stayer to figure prominently in this race.

Of the other winners, none have displayed the level of ability to be a serious contender and it may be two of the maidens, Smarty Jon and Usain who could finish on the leaderboard. Smarty Jon only made his debut on Saturday gone and while he ran a pleasing race, he was soundly beaten by So Be It.

Usain was off the track for a long time before returning to be a beaten favourite (albeit in second) in a handicap. Both should run well, but the finish should be fought out by the three who fought out the Royal Colours Classic. A fascinatingly competitive race is in prospect.

The President’s Cup over 1,900m for the top class horses also promises to be a fascinating event. Last year’s surprise winner, Whisper Light returns and along with Stockyard stand out among the field. Also paying final subscriptions were Stockyard’s stable companions, Errazuriz, Commanding Fashion and Nuclear Power; as well as Princess Suri (who paid a penalty), Wots to Report and Rock in Peace.

These are likely to be the main contenders though it is likely to be a tall order for Commanding Fashion who has only shown his best form on the turf; Nuclear Power has only returned from an injury on July 21 when second to Desert Dancer and Errazuriz has not been seen in many months.

Princess Suri for whom a penalty was paid has only raced over distances under 1,300m but connections must believe that she has the ability to stay this extended distance.

The top two, however, are clearly the game Whisper Light and Stockyard. Whisper Light has been toting extremely heavy weights in his recent starts and is likely to get some weight relief with his younger rivals on this occasion. Additionally, in the recent past, his best form has been shown at distances in excess of 1,300m so he is likely to be more at home over this extended distance as long as he does not get into an early speed duel with any of his rivals.

Stockyard is the likely favourite and won the Independence Cup last year and was also placed in the Gold Cup. He has also been very consistent this year but his best form has been on wet fast track. Once again a very competitive race can be expected and this is what punters want to see.

These two feature races are competitive enough to bring out the crowds and it is hoped that punters respond accordingly.

The Trainers Association will be celebrating the achievements of trainers John O’Brien and Glenn Mendez and we would like to also extend our congratulations to both men who have provided yeoman service to the racing industry in this country in more ways than one, with their competitive spirit and flair constantly enhancing the sport.

May they continue to dignify the sport with their involvement and conduct. Well done gentlemen!

Teenage wheelman, Nicholas Paul pedalled to his second gold medal at the 23rd Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in Barranquilla, Colombia, last night.

The 19-year-old Paul, a member of the gold medal-winning T&T Match Sprint Team, doubled his gold medal haul when he got the better of hometown rider Fabian Puerta 2-1 in the best of three rides final.

Puerta won the first ride in 12.122 seconds, before the T&T cyclist battled back to win the second ride off in 10.364 seconds to set up a third and deciding ride off which he took in 10.091 to stun the home crowd and improved T&T’s gold medal haul to five and 15 overall, two silver and eight bronze. 13 in 2014

It was sweet redemption for Paul who was third in the men’s keirin on Monday, only to be relegated to the sixth spot after an infringement.

Olympian Njisane Phillip, who was also part of the golden Match Sprint team failed to add to T&T’s medal haul when he was beaten in two straight rides for bronze by another Colombia, Kevin Quintero in 10.469, and 10.434.

Yesterday in the semifinals which took place in the morning session, Paul defeated Quintero 2-0, 10.017, and 10.211 while Puerta overcame Phillip 2-1, winning in 10.284 and 10.529, after the T&T rider won the first heat, 10.146.

In the last-eight match-ups, Paul defeated Venezuela’s Cesar Marcano in two straight rides, in 10.137 and 10.048 respectively while Phillip, 27, swept aside Guatemalan, Brandon Pineda, also in two rides, in 10.491 and 10.594 respectively.

Quintero who defeated Suriname’s Jair Tjon 2-0 (10.342 and 10.256) as well and Puerta, got past Venezuelan Hersony Canelon in three rides, 2-1.

Two other T&T cyclists climbing the medal podium last night were Akil Campbell and his sister Teneil. Akil ended third overall in the men’s Omnium with 128 points from four events. Colombian Edwin Avila (157) won gold and Mexican, Ignacio Prado (147), silver while Barbadian Jamol Eastmond was fourth with 116.

During the four events, the 22-year-old Akil, who placed eighth in the men’s Madison, was fourth in the Scratch Race (34 points); third in the Tempo Race (36 pts); won the Elimination Race (40 pts) and was fourth in the Points Race (18).

His sister, 20-year-old Teneil made it three bronze medals by finishing third in the women’s Individual Pursuit.

Teneil crossed the line in three minutes, 41.025 seconds to finish ahead of Mexico’s Jessica Bonilla (3:43.135) in the bronze medal battle. Marlies Mejias defeated fellow Cuban Arlenis Sierra, with a time of 4:27.773 to 4:33.203 for gold.

Also yesterday, Costa sisters, Alexi and Jessica failed to finish the women’s Madison event.

Today, Teneil and Alexi Costa will compete in the women’s Points Race; Paul and Quincy Alexander in the men’s Time Trial final, and Akil and Kemp Orosco in the men’s Madison final.

Carter second in men’s 50m free

Dylan Carter picked up his fourth medal at the Games, silver in the men’s A 50m freestyle to add to his three gold.

Carter touched the wall in 22.39 seconds to finish behind Suriname’s Renzo Tjon-A-Joe, who had the fastest time of 22.28 in the heats. He won in 22.18 with Venezuelan Alberto Mestre third in 22.47.

In the morning 50m freestyle heats, Carter won heat five in 22.40, the second fastest qualifying time, ahead of Guatemalan Luis Martinez Mendez (22.83) and Aruba’s Mikel Schreuders (22.87) earned A-final places while Joshua Romany of T&T, was fourth in 22.91 for a B-final spot.

Romany went on to win the B Final in 22.88.

On Tuesday night, the T&T’s 4x100m freestyle quartet of Kael Yorke, Romany, Carter and Jabari Baptiste had carried T&T medal tally to 11, four gold, one silver and six bronze with a third-place finish in 3:22.83.

Toussaint secures Calypso Stickmen semis

Akim Toussaint scored a pair of goals to lead T&T men’s hockey team to a 3-0 shot-out of Jamaica in their final Pool A at the Unidad Deportivo Pibe Valderrama, yesterday.

Toussaint scored in the 25th and 55th minutes while Teague Marcano got the other in the 47th minute for T&T to end with six points from three matches, level with Cuba and Barbados.

However, the “Calypso Stickmen” who also beat Cuba, 2-1 before a shock 2-1 loss to Barbados ended with a goal-difference of plus-three for the second spot behind Cuba, which outscored Barbados, 4-2 in yesterday’s final match, with the latter only needing a draw to reach the semifinals.

In tomorrow’s semifinals, T&T will meet Pool B winner, Mexico from 5 pm while Cuba battles Pool B, runner-up, Guyana at 2.45 pm.

This afternoon the T&T “Calypso Stickwomen”, who topped their round-robin pool with a 3-0 record will be in semifinal action from 5 pm versus Cuba.

The first semifinal from 2.45 pm will feature Mexico which won Pool A, and Pool B runner-up, Barbados.

Calypso Spikers finish 5th

Channon Thompson and Krystle Esdelle spiked 17 points each as T&T women’s volleyball ended in a creditable fifth spot after a win 26-24, 25-19, 25-20 over Venezuela in their fifth place playoff yesterday.

Sinead Jack added 15 points for the ‘FIVB World Championship-bound “Calypso Spikers” who dominated the South Americans on spikes, 43-27; blocks 15-0 and service aces, 7-3 to make amends for their 33 errors committed as compared to the losers, 11.

Women Warriors through to semis

T&T senior women footballers will come up against Costa Rica from 8 pm in one of two semifinals.

On Tuesday, the Women Warriors needed Mexico to defeat Nicaragua by four clear goals to have a chance at advancing to the semifinals, and that was the scoreline the Mexicans eventually registered to give

T&T second spot by virtue of scoring more goals than the Nicaraguans after both teams ended with the same goal difference.

Shooters off target in Colombia

T&T’s Roger Daniel, Rodney Allen, Clement Marshall and Marsha Bullen-Jones had a tough shooting day yesterday.

Overall, T&T ended ninth in the 10m Air Pistol Team with 1,651 points after a seventh-place finish in the 50m Pistol Team on Sunday with 1,497 points.

Among the women, Bullen-Jones did not fear much better as she placed 15th in the Women’s 25m Pistol qualifiers with 256 points in the Qualification Precision and 14th in the Qualification Rapid with 529.

Arrindell ends on a high

Sailor, Kelly-Ann Arrindell ended her campaign in the women’s Laser Radial with a sixth-place finish in the ninth and final race for a total of 58 net points and eighth position overall.

Squash teams ousted in pool play

T&T’s national women’s squash team ended their round-robin Pool A four-team series with a 2-1 win over Guatemala but it was not enough to get to the semifinals.

After losing to Mexico (0-3) and Cayman Islands (0-3) on Tuesday, the T&T women had much better fortune yesterday.

Trident Sports Phoenix defeated Tecu Southern Titans by six wickets in their latest encounter of the Courts T20 Extravaganza at the Brian Lara Academy on Tuesday night.

The star on the night for Phoenix was Kycia Knight who stole the show with an excellent batting effort.

Batting first Titans made 159 for four off their 20 overs with Windies player Deandra Dottin slamming 70 not out. The Barbadian coming down the order was brutal in facing just 36 balls for her effort in which she added seven fours and three sixes. Lending support was Britney Cooper (21) and Shennelle Lord (20).

Knight then took over the run chase and made 68 from 46 balls with 11 fours. She and Reniece Boyce 34 added 85 runs in 10 overs which laid the platform for an easy victory. Boyce who was run out faced 33 balls hitting two fours and a six. Shakera Selman bowled well taking 2/34 but her efforts were not enough to give her team victory.

In the other game, the same venue LCB Central Sharks created an upset by defeating defending champions Udecott North Starblazers by 20 runs. Central Sharks on the back of 65 from Samantha Bissoon made 142/7 wickets in 20 overs. The right-hander anchored the innings facing 56 balls and hitting 11 fours in her knock.

When Starblazers took to the crease they found the going tough and was restricted to 122/8 losing by 20 runs. Bissoon returned with the ball to produce an excellent spell of 3/12 as she and skipper Anisa Mohammed 2/22 put a stranglehold on Starblazers.

SCORES

At Brian Lara Academy: Titans 159/4 (20) (Deandra Dottin 70no, Britney Cooper 21, Shanelle Lord 20) vs Trident Sports Phoenix 162/4 (18.5) (Kycia Knight 68, Reniece Boyce 34, Shakera Selman 2/34) - Phoenix won by 6 wkts.

At Brian Lara Academy: LCB Central Sharks 142/7 (20) (Samantha Bissoon 65, C Henry 31no, A Thompson 25, Lee Ann Kirby 2/15) vs Udecott North Starblazers 122/8 (S Gajnabi 42, Kirbina Alexander 35, Anisa Mohammed 2/22, Samantha Bissoon 3/12) - Central Sharks won by 20 runs.

T&T darts players gave a very good account of themselves by winning the Caribbean Darts Organisation Caribbean Championship which took place at the Cara Suites in Claxton Bay from July 6 to 15. The host, which played undefeated, also captured the overall Caribbean Cup title.

Among the countries that took part were Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, Cayman Islands, Florida, USA, Guyana, Jamaica, Turks and Caicos and the hosts T&T.

The USA and Canada only participated in the World Darts Federation Americas Cup which saw T&T placed third overall.

The USA won the Cup followed by Canada.

Robin Albury of Bahamas won the Men’s Singles Title. It was the first-time a Caribbean player won the title. Sandy Hudson of USA took the women’s singles title.

RESULTS

Men’s singles Champion
Mike Comiskey (Florida, USA)
Women’s Singles Champion
Tyler Mearers (Florida, USA )
Men’s Doubles Champions
Troy Bhujhawan and Kevin Jacob (T&T)
Women’s Doubles Champions
Nanette Brooks and Karen Ramcharan (T&T)
Mixed Triples Runners up
James Walklin, Petty Massiah and Lestor Legall lost to Shane Sawyer, Liz Kemp and Dwight Miller of Bahamas in the final.
Nanette Brooks of T&T won the MVP female award.

TEAMS

Defending champion Defence Force will be back seeking to retain its title in the Men’s Premier Division of the Barry Stewart Invitational League.

The second edition of the league opens on Sunday from 12 noon at the Central Regional Indoor Sports Arena in Chaguanas. Following the opening ceremony at 3 pm, two matches will take place with Straker Nets meeting newcomers Stories of Success (SOS) Academy at 3.30 pm and a battle of the servicemen at 5 pm when Police come up against the reigning champion Defence Force.

Teams will compete in four divisions including Men’s Premier, Women, Under-19 and U-15.

Ten teams will challenge for the crown and $50,000 in the top division. The other team are Detour Shak Attack, Prisons, Petro Jazz, Brian Chase Academy, Maloney Pacers and another newcomer, UWI.

Second place finishers will take home $20,000 and third, $10,000. The participating women teams are Straker Nets, Enterprise, Brian Chase and UWI while the U-19 will play in two groups. Group A will see Grande Young Stars, New Age Lyons, Brian Chase Academy, Straker Nets, Togetherness and SOS Academy battle while Group B will have Mathew Pierre Academy, Petro Jazz, Spartans, 500 Hawks, Maloney Pacers and Trailblazers. The U-15 will comprise of Spartans, Grande Young Stars, Brian Chase Academy, 500 Hawks and Maloney Pacers.

This year the tournament will be held in honour of Vibert “Passay” Dean, a long-standing player whom the basketball fraternity lost in May.

Dean started playing basketball at St Barbs basketball court with Celtics second division team and then moved to North Western League First Division before joining National Flour Mills (NFM) where he played in North Zone and Super 10 and his later years he played with Veterans. Dean could be seen at every match last year cheering on his teams and just enjoying the sport of basketball. His presence will be missed.

Log on to Facebook at Barry Stewart Basketball or on Instagram at Barrystewartbaskeballleague to follow the league or contact Barry Stewart at 310-0324 or Nadine Khan at 684-3294 for further information.

Given the amount of bacchanal, controversy and court matters with some of our respective associations that govern sport in this country, it sadly can make one feel that our athletes have very little chance of competing at international level. These associations are so hell-bent on protecting their own little piece of tuft, that little time is spent on looking after those who really count in the playing arena. That being said, it is truly a great feeling for the people of our twin-island republic when our sportsmen and sportswomen are doing well and winning medals at an international meeting.

Our last major outing was arguably the 2016 Olympics and it was not what we expected. Many of the athletes came in for some severe criticism which in my view was a bit unfair, as it has always been my opinion that more can be done for them in terms of preparation. They are sent on the international scene by just doing the qualifying times and then we expect miracles from these athletes; who no doubt give 100%, but really and truly, some have little chance of capturing a medal. So when we produce a Hasely Crawford or a Keshorn Walcott, they are indeed special people.

At the time of writing, T&T had won four gold, one silver and six bronze medals at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) games being held in Barranquilla, Colombia. A total of 470 events are being contested by 37 nations with 5,854 athletes. By and large, our athletes have done well thus far.

Pride and place has to go to young swimmer Dylan Carter who broke two games records in the 100m freestyle and the 50m butterfly events, and also broke his own record in the 50m backstroke. It appears that we have yet another world class swimmer on our hands, and it is here where our officials come into the picture. Carter now has to step up to the next level but he needs help to do this. He will no doubt have the support of his family and his respective trainers, but they can only do so much.

I am sincerely hopeful that the Amateur Swimming Association of T&T (ASATT) can help Carter with the necessary funding and training that is needed so that he can step up to that next level. He is ranked 4th in the world in the butterfly so he has some way to go to the top but let us rally behind him and let us share in his joy; but please, help him to get to the top. He is already an inspiration to all the young swimmers in T&T, and once again the ASATT needs to capitalise on his success and every young swimmer should just ‘wanna’ be like Dylan. Congrats to Dylan, to our gold cycling team of Njisane Phillip, Nicholas Paul and Kwesi Browne and the rest of the T&T contingent.

On the subject of congratulations, I want to wish Magnolia Hockey Club continued success after celebrating their 50th anniversary at a function held at the Queen’s Park Ballroom last Saturday night. I was pleased to receive an invitation to the function, which I gladly accepted and it was truly a wonderful evening. The feature address was delivered by former Miss Universe Wendy Fitzwilliam.

The club was formed in 1968 and was able to field two teams in the B and C divisions of the T&T Women’s Hockey Association (TTWHA) competitions. By 1971, they fielded three teams and four by 1985. From its conception, the club started with family and friends coming together to share their love for hockey. What is even more impressive with ‘Mags’ is their discipline, values, support base and their obvious passion for the game.

Up to 1986, they had never won the women’s championship but finished second on numerous occasions. At the time I was employed at Carib Brewery, we had just launched Shandy Carib and it was tagged as a refreshing beverage, especially after some sort of energy intensive activity. Their colours were brown and gold - similar to the Shandy Ginger label - and I thought voilà, why not give it a try and use the club and their 100 odd members to promote the Shandy Carib brand. My one provision was that they had to win the League as I said my Company will not support non-champions. Perhaps that did the trick as they have won the title on numerous occasions since then.

Shandy Carib was their first ever sponsor 32 years ago. How the Club survived without a sponsor in the early years is a testament to your organisational skills, your ability to rise when the chips are down, your dedication, your hard work and your overall commitment.

Once again, congratulations on your 50th anniversary; you should be extremely proud of your past as you eagerly look to the future.

Colin Murray

The pair of Jordell Chapman and Messiah Permell have been crowned Under-10 Mixed Doubles champions as action in the RBC Tobago Junior Tennis Championship continued at Shaw Park Tobago, yesterday.

On court six, Isabel Abraham prevailed over Maria Honore to capture the Girls U-16 title in comfortable fashion 6-2, 6-0.

Playing on court one the combined forces of the number one seed Permell and his partner made light work of the brother and sister duo of Brian and Brianna Harricharan, whipping them in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4.

But on court two, Jace Quashie took three sets to advance to the final of the Boys U-12 Division by beating Kale Dalla Costa 4-2, 1-4, 4-2.

In the battle for silverware, he will meet number two seed NathenMartin, who cruised to a 4-2, 4-1 victory over Luca Denoon in the other semi-final.

In the Boys U-14 division, Sebastian Sylvester was also in winning ways for a final berth over Nicholas Ready 6-1, 7-6 (4) in the tie-break, where a juicy contest awaits him against Shae Millington. The latter had an easier 6-0, 6-2 triumph over Johnny Su in the other semi-final encounter.

Number two seed Jaylon Chapman had to settle for the consolation win in the U-14s when he defeated Syam Manchikanti 4-0, 5-3 on court three.

Meanwhile, Kyle Kerry got another win in the boys U-16 round-robin playoffs when he got the better of Charles Devaux 6-1, 6-1, and then he looked on as Saqiv Williams prevailed over Sebastian Sylvester in another game, 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.

WALTER ALIBEY
 

T&T’s Nicholas Paul officially stamped his name as the future of local cycling when he sped to his third gold medal at the 23rd Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in Barranquilla, Colombia, last night.

Paul’s gold medal, the third for cycling carried T&T’s overall medal haul so far to 16 medals, six gold, two silver and eight bronze.

He also joined swimmer Dylan Carter with three gold medals at the games. Carter, who returned home yesterday, also got silver in the men’s 50 metres freestyle test and a relay bronze in the men’s 4x100m freestyle relay contest to end with five.

The 19-year-old Paul, who was a member of the gold medal-winning T&T Match Sprint Team along with Olympian Njisane Phillip and Kwesi Browne and then won his second gold on Wednesday in the Men’s Sprint, proved a class above the rest in the men’s 1km Time Trial in record-setting time at the Velodromo Alcides Nieto Patino.

Paul was on his A-Game from the start and posted the fastest time over the opening 250m of 18.816 seconds, while he crossed the 500m mark in 31.871 followed by a 13.682 third quarter ride (45.553 seconds) before crossing the finish line in one minute, 00.171 seconds, a new games record to smash the 2010 time in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico of Colombian, Fabian Puerta (1:04.375)

Kevin Quintero of Colombia got silver in 1:00.729, and Guatemala’s Luis Cordon, bronze in 1:02.023, while T&T’s other entrant, Quincy Alexander was ninth in 1:03.789.

Teneil Campbell failed to add to her three bronze medals won when she ended in the fifth spot in the women’s Point Race.

The 20-year-old Campbell tallied 17 points to finish well behind gold medal winner, Venezuelan Lilibeth Chacon (37) and silver medallist, Yeny Colmenares of Colombia who tallied, 35 points.

Cuban Arlenis Sierra got bronze with 25, while Barbadian Amber Joseph was fourth with 18, and T&T’s other competitor, Alexi Costa, 11th.

And in the men’s Madison, T&T’s Akil Campbell and Kemp Orosco were sixth best.

Hockey women play for bronze

T&T women’s hockey players will play neighbours Barbados for the bronze medal on Saturday from 2.45pm at Unidad Deportivo Pibe Valderrama.

This after the “Calypso Stickmen”, who ended round-robin pool play with a perfect 3-0 record, suffered a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Cuba in their semifinal yesterday.

The trio of Yuraina Vera Rojas (19th), Yunia Milanes Marcos (29th) and Brizaida Ramos Perez (59th) got a goal each for the Cubans who will face Mexico, 1-0 winners over Barbados in the first semifinal for gold on Saturday from 5 pm.

The meeting between Barbados and T&T women will be the second of this year’s competition after T&T won 2-1 in their round-robin match thanks to a double from Shaniah De Freitas while Mexico blanked Cuba 3-0 in a pool match as well.

Today, in the men’s semifinals, T&T will meet Pool B winner, Mexico from 5 pm while Cuba battles Pool B, runner-up, Guyana at 2.45 pm.

Women Warriors in semis

T&T senior women footballers will come up against Costa Rica from 8 pm tonight in one of two semifinals at Estadio Moderno.

On Tuesday, the Women Warriors needed Mexico to defeat Nicaragua by four clear goals to have a chance at advancing to the semifinals, and that was the scoreline the Mexicans eventually registered to give T&T second spot by virtue of scoring more goals than the Nicaraguans, after both teams ended with the same goal difference.

The trio of T&T, Mexico and Nicaragua all got 3-0 wins over Haiti who defaulted.

Mexico also defeated T&T 5-1, and against Nicaragua, T&T battled to a 2-2 draw.

The Mexicans meet Venezuela in the other women’s semifinal from 5 pm with the bronze medal and gold matches carded for Monday, July 30.

Moses fifth in 50m Rifle Prone

Debutant, Marlon Jones had a creditable fifth place finish from 29 competitors in the men’s 50m Rifle Prone with a final tally of 607.8, comprised from rounds of 100.2; 99.6; 102.8; 102.4; 102.6, and 100.2, respectively.

Mexican Jose Sanchez won gold with 616.2 points while Colombian Ivan Lopez (614.8) and Martinique’s Alain Girard (608.1), second, and third, respectively.

Mexican, Alfonso Monrique was fourth with 607.8.

In shooting, today Marsha Bullen-Jones will compete in the women’s 10m Air Pistol.

Water polo women beaten

T&T water polo women’s team got its campaign off to a less than impressive start, losing 22-3 to Venezuela at the Complejo Acuatico.

The trio of Megan Stafford, Jamila Noguera-Devers and Shemiyah Ross got a goal each for T&T in the loss ahead of another encounter today vs Mexico from 2 pm. Mexico outplayed Colombia 18-10 in their opener and Puerto Rico edged Cuba 13-12.

The men’s water polo team will face Venezuela from 7.35 pm.

T&T squash women 6th

T&T women’s squash team had to settle for the sixth spot in their team competition after a 3-0. This after Charlotte Knaggs went under to Mary Fong-AF-Fat 5-11, 5-11, 11-8, 6-11; Alexandria Yearwood fell to Taylor Fernandes 11-8, 11-4, 10-12, 2-11, 2-11, and Marie-Claire Barcant retired against Ashley Khalil trailing, 8-11, 5-11, 0-2.

Boxer Guy beaten on points

T&T’s first boxer in action, Tianna Guy was overwhelmed by Dominican Republic’s Estefani Almanzar, 5-0 on points in their bantamweight (57kg) quarterfinal bout.

Today, in the men’s middleweight (75kg) quarterfinal, T&T’s Aaron Prince faces Evin Cedeno of Dominican Republic.

New T&T Pro League Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Julia Baptiste has found herself in hot water after a decision to reveal August 3 as the starting date for the League, and essentially go against a decision of the Board.

A few TT Pro League Board members, wishing to remain anonymous, are fuming over this announcement, as they believe it could potentially affect a sponsorship deal with Caribbean Sports Television Network Sportsmax, the Ministry of Tourism and the T&T Pro League moving forward.

One Board member said the parties were close to sealing a deal that would enable the League to be televised live on Sportsmax, through the help of the Ministry of Tourism.

The deal is expected to provide the cash-strapped Pro League with much-needed advertising revenue, particularly in the midst of the current economic situation.

Guardian Media Sports learnt that the Board made a decision on Monday to push back the start of the League until an agreement was reached, and monies to pay prizes etc could be determined.

But according to the members, Baptiste decided that the August 3 start would remain, without consulting the Board, and thereby creating anger among members.

They are hoping her decision does not hamper the parties closing the deal, as a gala launch would be held if an agreement is made. Sportsmax CEO Oliver Mc Intosh is already scheduled to arrive in T&T on Sunday to continue talks and possibly sign.

Another Board member said yesterday: “Even an agreement will take another six weeks then we should wait because it will change the League and improve the financial position we have found ourselves in.”

He added, “I think television is the only thing to save the pro league at this point, as people across T&T, the region and the globe will be exposed to it and it will lead to advertising revenue.”

When contacted yesterday, Baptiste said she did not want to discuss matters of the Board in the public domain and would do so at the next meeting. The Board members, it is understood, have asked for an urgent meeting to deal with the matter and are awaiting a response.

For the past years, the League was played with no cash prizes available and winning clubs are still clinging to a promise that it will be forthcoming.

It is hoped an agreement among the parties will put the League in a position of financial stability and its dependence on government for help will one day be a thing of the past.

A few days ago, Central FC players don their football boots in protest of the promised $50,000 grant from government for clubs through the Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs. The promised amount is expected to help clubs pay salaries to players.

WALTER ALIBEY
 

One of T&T’s most outstanding sporting luminaries, Carlton “Squeakie” Hinds passed on recently and was cremated on Tuesday, July 17, 2018.

He was inducted in both the Football and National Sports Halls of Fame, having represented Trinidad and Tobago for many more years than one can count using your fingers and toes. He also played for his club Malvern Sports North Trinidad and represented the country in hockey.

Hinds was born in Moruga on November 21, 1924. He was given the nickname “Squeakie” by his former Queen’s Royal College (QRC) principal Arthur C Farrell. “Squeakie” was the name of Hinds’ pet deer.

Hinds would at times join the all-powerful Malvern girls’ netball outfit of star players, such as Lystra Lewis, Vida Horsford and Mavis Parris, at practice sessions. One of his netball fanatics chooses to remember the moment he brought victory to Malvern with a goal in the last minute of play.

He played cricket as a wicket-keeper/batsman for QRC. He would remember proudly, opening the batting form for his school along with Kenny Trestrail, a famous West Indian cricketer.

Hinds worked at the Customs and Excise Department, rising to a senior position and participated for his workplace in everything there was, even at music as a saxophonist.

As time wore on, Squeakie, desiring to improve himself professionally, migrated to the USA and later attended Howard University, graduating with a degree in Civil Engineering while assisting the school in securing football championship honours.

Due to his prowess at football, he was acclaimed throughout the West Indies as the “Prince of Forwards” as he cleverly wrote or weaved a majestic story on the playing field whenever he performed.

Hinds would be remembered for his performance in a North vs South game when the score at half-time read North 0, South 3. Squeakie and his North team-mates scintillating efforts were rewarded in the second half as North came away 5-3 winners at the final whistle.

Another milestone for him was when at the not so young age of 47, he earned a selection to represent the United States at hockey at the 1971 Pan American Games which took place in Cali, Colombia.

Hinds could boasted of having an army of supporters on game day, headed by his wife Joyce, sons and daughter, Susan.

Despite his laid-back personality, he was a force to be reckoned with on the field. Squeakie always remained humble, however, in spite of his achievements, which were many.

PAUL REGIS
 

Defending champions Udecott North Starblazers continued their struggles in the 2018 Courts T20 Extravaganza as they went under to Tecu Southern Titans by 77 runs in their round six encounters at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy on Wednesday night.

Britney Cooper the captain of Titans was in brilliant form and struck an unbeaten 92 to lead the way for her team, as they amassed 191 for five off their 20 overs. Starblazers responded with 114 all out—suffering a heavy defeat, as they lost their second game in two nights.

Cooper, struck 92 runs from 59 balls with 13 fours and a six. She was well supported by Deandra Dottin who made 25 off 20 balls. Leean Kirby bowling for Starblazers took two for 24 from her four overs.

In Starblazers reply, their bats struggled and lost wickets regularly. Skipper Kirby was the only standout player making 34 off 20 balls with four fours. Starblazers found the bowling of Rosemary Samaroo too difficult to handle as she took three wickets for nine runs. Shenata Grimmond took two wickets for three runs in her lone over.

In the other game, LCB Central Sharks continued their winning ways by recording a seven-wicket victory over Trident Sports Phoenix.

Tridents batted first and scored 142 for six, off their 20 overs with skipper Stacy Ann King getting 34 from 23 balls with five fours, Kycia Knight continued her good form with 27 made off 25 balls and R Dollabielle made 28. Samantha Bissoon kept them honest with four wickets for 19 runs.

Central Sharks then responded with 143 for three with one ball to spare. Felicia Walters opened the batting and scored 71 before being run out. She faced 66 balls and struck 11 fours in an innings that frustrated the opposition. Lending good support was Shermaine Campbelle who made 47 off 33 balls with five fours.

Scores

COURTS T20 CRICKET
At Brian Lara Academy: Tecu Southern Titans 191/5 (20) (Britney Cooper 92no, Deandra Dottin 25, Shania Abdool 19, Leean Kirby 2/24) vs Udecott Northern Stablazers 114 all out (15.1) (Leean Kirby 34, Natasha McLean 19, Rosemary Samaroo 3/9, Shenata Grimmond 2/ 3)
Titans won by 77 runs.
At Brian Lara Academy: Tridents 142/6 (Stacy Ann King 34, Kycia Knight 27, R Dollabielle 28, Samantha Bissoon 4/19) vs Central Sharks 143/3 (19.5) (Felicia Walters 71, Shermaine Campbelle 47)Central Sharks won by 7 wkts.

Jace Quashie, the number 1 seed in the Under-12 Division, did not disappoint yesterday as he finished off a successful campaign in the RBC Tobago Junior Tennis Championship at Shaw Park with a title.

He joined the list of winners which also includes Shae Millington, the top-ranked player in the Boys Under-14s and Jaylon Chapman, among others.

Yesterday, despite the heavy downpour that led to long delays, Quashie, a member of the T&T 12 & Under team that progressed out of the recent ITF/COTECC Development Tournament at the National Racquet Centre in Tacarigua, was made to work hard for his title, first taking the opening set 4-0 against Nathen Martin.

But the second-seeded Martin stormed back to upset his rival 4-2 to level the match at one apiece.

However, Quashie came back to seal the third and final set by a similar 4-2 margin to clinch the title.

In the Under-14 final, Millington wasted little time with his opponent Sebastian Sylvester, cruising to a comfortable 6-1 triumph in the first set before confirming himself as champion with a 6-2 win in the second.

In the Under-14 Consolation match that among the beaten semi-finalist, it was Jaylon Chapman who proved to be better on the day, prevailing 4-2, 5-4(4) over Tim Pasea.

WALTER ALIBEY
 

Turkey-based T&T senior women’s team volleyballers, Channon Thompson, Sinead Jack and Krystle Esdelle were all recipients of individual awards. Ten awards were given out at the conclusion of the women’s volleyball tournament of the 2018 Barranquilla XXIII Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in Barraanquilla, Colombia, on Wednesday night.

Thompson, the reigning Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) women’s Most Valuable Player was named the CAC Games Best Wing Spiker, while Jack copped the Best Middle Blocker accolade, and Esdelle, the Best Server.

Ironically, the trio were the lone T&T players to score in double-figures in the team’s straight sets win over Venezuela earlier on the night in the fifth to sixth place play-off match. T&T won 3-0 after scores of 26-24, 25-19 and 25-20.

The national women’s team coached by Cuban Francisco “Panchee” Cruz, who had a best-ever finish of fourth in 2010 in Puerto Rico, showed an undying will to beat Venezuela which saw the team committed only 11 unforced errors, while their opponents committed 33.

The T&T team, led by Renele Forde, prevailed with a sizeable 43-27 in kills and also kept Venezuela’s strongest scorers quiet with a huge 15-0 blocking margin as well as 7-3 in aces.

Thompson tallied 17 points, including 15 kills while Esdelle also scored 17 points, including five blocks and four aces, while Jack added 15 points.

Winderlys Medina of Venezuela scored 13 points and Nelamira Valdez ten points.

Overall, T&T finished with 3-3 win-loss record after beating Costa Rica as well, while Venezuela with a 2-4 mark in sixth place.

Commenting on the performance of the T&T team which also swept past Cuba 3-0 on Tuesday night, for a first win ever against that country, in the fifth to eighth place semifinals, Thompson said the team decided to give it their all after failing to reach their main goal of a podium finish.

“Our main goal was to win a medal, but since we couldn’t we came out to win the fifth position and represent our country to the best we could.”

She added, “Venezuela is a very resilient and strong team, they beat Cuba and five sets, and so in the third set they were above and for us it was only a matter of being patient, pulling ourselves together, remaining calm and doing what we can do”.

About their upcoming debut at the FIVB World Championship in Japan in late September, Thompson added: “We are going back home to practice, hopefully, we can have our own home court to train every day and have better facilities, that some things will be put in place to prepare.”

Cruz coach of T&T for the past 12 years, who plans to step down after Japan said “We wanted to improve our team’s game level for the World Championship and I consider we did.

“We came from less to more and physically the team has been recovering well, yesterday (Tuesday) and today (Wednesday) we played much better. Darlene Ramdin wasn’t able to play much today (Wednesday) because she has problems with her knee and we changed our game system with another player, therefore some imprecisions.”

Overall he said his team was leaving Colombia with much more experienced and well prepared and he hopes it won’t be lost in Trinidad.

The Dominican Republic won a fifth straight gold medal when they defeated host Colombia 25-19, 25-17, 25-19 in the final, while Puerto Rico battled past Mexico, 26-24, 15-25, 25-19, 27-29, 15-12 for bronze.

Results

Final Standings
1. Dominican Republic
2. Colombia
3. Puerto Rico
4. Mexico
5. T&T
6. Venezuela
7. Cuba
8. Costa Rica.
Women’s individual awards
Most Valuable Player: Prisilla River (Dominican Republic)
Best Libero: Brenda Castillo (Dominican Republic)
Best Digger: Brenda Castillo (Dominican Republic)
Best Opposite: Gaila Gonzalez (Dominican Republic)
Second Best Middle Blocker: Lisvel Eve Mejia (Dominican Republic)
Best Setter: Maria Alejandra Marin (Colombia)
Best Wing Spiker: Amanda Coneo (Colombia)
Best Receiver: Amanda Coneo (Colombia)
Best Wing Spiker: Channon Thompson (T&T)
First Best Middle Blocker: Sinead Jack (T&T)
Best Server: Krystle Esdelle (T&T)
Best Scorer: Andrea Rangel (Mexico)

This country’s men’s hockey team was beaten in their semifinal in controversial fashion by Mexico, 4-2 in a penalty-strokes shoot-out after a 1-1 deadlock at 23rd Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games at the Complejo Pibe Valderrama, Barranquilla, Colombia, yesterday.

With the Mexicans ahead 3-2 in the shoot-out, T&T goalkeeper Andrey Rocke, stood on his goalline with his right hand raised in the air to signal he was not ready.

However, the whistle was still blown by the match umpire for the stroke to be taken which converted by Jorge Aguillar to earn his team a shot at the gold medal tomorrow from 5.30 pm against Cuba, a 1-0 winner over Guyana in the other semifinal.

T&T, which protested the fourth penalty-stroke to no avail, will tackle Guyana from 3.15 pm for the bronze.

Earlier in regulation time, Francisco Aguilar fired Mexico ahead as early in the fifth minute from the penalty-spot while Mickell Pierre replied for T&T.

In the shoot-out, Aguilla (F), Luis Villegas and Daniel Castillo were the other players to convert for Mexico while Jorge Gomez missed their fourth attempt.

T&T co-captain Akim Toussaint and Teague Marcano scored their attempts while Pierre and Shaquille Daniel were denied.

Today, T&T women’s hockey players will play neighbours Barbados for the bronze medal from 3.15 pm at Unidad Deportivo Pibe Valderrama in an effort to increase the medal haul of 16 medals, six gold, two silver, and eight bronze.

This after the “Calypso Stickwomen”who ended round-robin pool play with a perfect 3-0 record suffered a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Cuba in their semifinal on Thursday.

The trio of Yuraina Vera Rojas (19th), Yunia Milanes Marcos (29th) and Brizaida Ramos Perez (59th) got a goal each for the Cubans who will face Mexico, a 1-0 winner over Barbados in the first semifinal, for gold on from 5.30 pm.

The meeting between Barbados and T&T women will be the second of this year’s competition after T&T won 2-1 in their round-robin match thanks to a double from Shaniah De Freitas while Mexico blanked Cuba 3-0 in a pool match as well.

Stampfli advances to women’s third round

T&T’s Breana Stampfli advanced to the Third Round of the women’s Lawn Tennis Singles with a tough win at Parque Distrital de Racquetas.

In her first round encounter, 22-year-old Stampfli overcame Bahamian Danielle Thompson, 7-6(4), 6-3 before she faced Kelly Williford of Dominican Republic in a second-round match after press time last night.

Water polo teams remain winlessT&T men and women water polo teams continued to struggle at the Complejo Acautico.

On Thursday night, the national men’s team was crushed 2-29 by Cuba, with Christopher George and Kryztien Sharpe, the scorers for the local team.

Last night, the national men team came up against Venezuela while today they will meet Costa Rica from 6.15 pm, in their final match ahead of the quarterfinals tomorrow.

The women’s team dropped to a 0-2 round-robin record after a 5-22 loss to Mexico after going under to Venezuela, 3-22 on Thursday night.

In the loss against Mexico, Shemiyah Ross scored three goals while Megan Stafford and Summer Gibson got one each.

Today, the women return to action versus Colombia from 4.40 pm, Puerto Rico tomorrow from 4.40 pm and Cuba on Monday from 2 pm to end round-robin play.

Bullen-Jones 18th in 10m Air PistolMarsha Bullen

-Jones hopes of securing a first medal for T&T at the Games ended with an 18th place finish in the women’s 10m Air Pistol.

The 43-year-old Bullen-Jones had scores of 81, 89, 89, 84, 83, and 84 for a total 510 points.

Vball men tackle host Colombia

T&T senior men’s volleyball team, the three-time reigning Caribbean champions will make their CAC Games bow against host Colombia in the last of four matches at the Humbero Perea Coliseo tonight from 10 pm in Pool B.

T&T also faces Puerto Rico and Guatemala in their pool while defending champion Dominican Republic, Cuba, Venezuela and Mexico are in Pool A.

The winners of the pools will earn direct tickets to the semifinal phase while the teams placed in second and third will compete in the quarterfinals.

The national beach volleyball men and women teams of Daneil Williams and Danyte Stewart and Rheeza Grant and Abby Blackman will also start round-robin play at the Puerta de Oro, Caribbean Events Centre,

Also in action today for T&T will be boxer Michael Alexander against Dominican Republic’s Carlos Figueroa in a lightweight (60kg) quarterfinal while swimming trio Chisara Santana, Gabriel Bynoe and Shaniah David will compete in the Open Water.

T&T’s podium finishes at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in cycling is only the start of much more to come, T&T Cycling Federation president Robert Farrier has said.

“Expect more as the country attempts to qualify as many riders as possible for the Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan,” Farrier said.

He told Guardian Media Sports yesterday the eight medals won at the Games, comprising two individual gold from sprint ace Nicholas Paul, who was part of the T&T team which included Njisane Phillip and Kwesi Brown that won gold in the Men’s Team Sprint, two bronze from Teniel Campbell and another bronze from Browne, did not come by accident, but rather from proper planning by his team.

Only last year the cycling federation took a decision to send Paul to the International Cycling Union (UCI) Cycling Centre at the headquarters in Switzerland, for the purpose of development for six months. It also initiated Campbell’s stint six months ago at the same facility.

Farrier and his team later ensured the quick return of instrumental cycling coach and director Canadian Erin Hartwell, who he credits for lifting the performances of the cyclists, both men and women.

Farrier believes the main challenge standing in the way of Olympic qualification is money. The successful team returns today to a rousing welcome at the VIP Lounge of the Piarco International Airport but is expected to leave soon for Teluca, Mexico for the Pan American Championship, for which more funding is needed to the tune of $200,000.

Farrier said his team’s progress was carefully crafted and projected based on the riders’ expected performances at specific meets.

“Our team has done an analysis based on the points that can be achieved at each meet, starting at the CAC and going all the way to the Olympic Games and I can tell you that so far we are well on course,” Farrier said.

A good performance at the Pan Am will put the T&T riders in a good position to qualify for the Olympics.

Cyclists across the globe have six more World Cups and a World Championship, which carries the bulk of the qualifying points, for the Olympics.

Paul is one of five extremely quick riders in the T&T team that can have a break-away moment at any time.

Farrier believes the strength of the T&T team of Paul, Kwesi Brown, Keron Bramble, Quincy Alexander and Phillip, is that they push one another to excessive speeds.

“At any time, any one of the riders can explode and break records, yet still be complimented by his team members,” Farrier said.

Yesterday Paul in a short interview said he was still lost for words but was really happy to see his hard-work paying off.

Meanwhile, the local cycling boss believes the performances by the cyclists are proof that T&T has what it takes to develop world class riders, saying this is why there is need for a UCI Centre to be held at the National Cycling Centre in Balmain, Couva.

The T&T Rugby Football Union (TTRFU) will be hosting the first of five boys’ and girls’ Under-18 Rugby Festival tomorrow from 1 pm to 6 pm at the Hasely Crawford Stadium, Mucurapo.

The festival is in keeping with the TTRFU’s youth development thrust, by continuing with the enhancement of young boys and girls, as well as the overall growth of the game. All clubs that have U-18 male and female rugby teams are expected to participate.

A release from the secretariat of the TTRFU said the rugby football union is embarking on a series of decentralised activities throughout the country, of which it hopes to have four zones of rugby with 24 clubs in T&T, comprising six in the north, east, south and as many in the Tobago zone.

It noted since February of this year, its Youth Development Officers (YDOs) have been working in their respective zones and this U-18 festival is a means of showing the work done by them to date.

“The Youth Development Programme is geared towards the strengthening of the Rugby Clubs in the country which will further enhance our national teams and allow T&T to be a dominant force within the region. The union is in constant discussion with the T&T Schools Rugby Football Union (TTSRFU) and as the parent body for rugby, intends to reopen discussions with the Ministry of Education to assist with that access to schools in the above-mentioned regions, ensuring the national spread of the game,” the release stated.

TTRFU president Colin Peters said his union also intends to engage the Ministry of Community Development and the Ministry of National Security for access to communities and police youth clubs in the various zones.

Cemeteries won both their matches to take the early lead in the Port-of-Spain Corporation Inter-Department football competition at the Nelson Mandela Park (formerly King George V Park) in St Clair last week.

When competition kicked off on Monday with a double-header, Cemeteries hammered Public Health 5-0 led by a hat-trick from Ahkel Fairbain.

Sekou Long-Kujifi and Keston Williams added the other goals in the win before Williams got the lone goal in a 1-0 triumph over defending champion City Hall on Wednesday.

City Hall had started off its campaign with a 2-1 win over Central Market with Jabari Raphael and an own goal from Richard Isaac to cancel out Stephen Francis strike.

In other matches, Kashief Moses netted both goals for Western Division to blank St James Division, 2-0 while Central/Eastern and Transport & Cleansing drew 0-0.

RESULTS

Thursday
Transport & Cleansing 1 (Kevon Frederick) vs St James Division 0
Central/Eastern 3 (Marvin Harper 2, Jahi Molick) vs Western Division 0

Wednesday
Central Market 1 (Stephen Francis) vs Public Health 1 (Joejordan Bidasie)
Cemeteries 1 (Keston Williams) vs City Hall 0

Tuesday
Western Division 2 (Kashief Moses 2) vs St James Division 0
Central/Eastern 0 vs Transport & Cleansing 0

Monday
Cemeteries 5 (Ahkel Fairbain 3, Sekou Long-Kujifi, Keston Williams) vs Public Health 0
City Hall 2 (Jabari Raphael, Richard Isaac o.g) vs Central Market 1 (Stephen Francis)
UPCOMING MATCHESS

Monday
City Hall vs Transport & Cleansing, 4.30 pm
St James Division vs Central Market, 6 pm

Tuesday
Cemeteries vs Central/Eastern, 4.30 pm
Public Health vs Western Division, 6 pm