Barbados 400m World Championship bronze medallist Sada Williams was admittedly disappointed with her performance at the Brussels Diamond League on Friday.
Williams finished runner-up well behind the Dominica Republic’s Fiordaliza Cofil in a time of 50.15. Cofil took the top spot with a personal best 49.80. Having dipped below the 50-second mark for the last two races, the result was a little surprising for the sprinter who believes she lost some power down the final stretch.
“I feel a little bit disappointed it wasn´t what I´m capable of. I was not able to speed up in the final stretch. It was good to run here it was hotter than I expected. Right now, I will review the race and see where I can improve. On to the next race,” Williams said after the race.
Belgium’s Cynthia Bolingo was third in a national record 50.19. Jamaica’s Candice McLeod was further back in fifth place after clocking 50.76. With 32 points from 6 races, however, Williams still leads the 400m standing for this season's Diamond League.
Returning BVIOC president Ephraim Penn charts bold vision for 2025-2028
Returning British Virgin Islands Olympic Committee (BVIOC) President Ephraim Penn sets an ambitious course for the next four years, as he is determined to ensure that sports remain a unifying force in the island.
Re-elected alongside several key incumbents at the organization’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Thursday, Penn pledged to strengthen sports governance and infrastructure while fostering growth and inclusivity across the territory’s sporting landscape.
The AGM, attended by representatives from National Federations (NFs) and the Athletes’ Commission, served as both a reflection on past achievements and a roadmap for the future.
In his address, Penn emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and the alignment of sports initiatives with the International Olympic Charter.
“Our guiding principles will continue to align with the International Olympic Charter: to inspire through sports performance and education; excel by empowering everyone to achieve their best; and foster collaboration through impactful and effective partnerships,” Penn said during the AGM at the BVIOC Office in Tortola.
He also outlined a robust agenda that includes developing a national sports structure aimed at unifying sports governance in the BVI through one-on-one consultations with each NF to assess their status and provide tailored support.
Enhancing aquatic infrastructure, which targets the completion of a 25-metre competition swimming pool to provide athletes with a dedicated space for training and competition, as well as safeguarding athlete well-being, which involves the introduction of a Safeguarding Commission to prioritize athlete safety and welfare.
Additionally, Penn aims to educate and inspire through Olympic values; this academy will be a cornerstone of the BVIOC’s educational outreach via a BVI Olympic Academy, while advancing long-term athlete development will see collaborations with the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports (DYAS) and the Ministry of Health to ensure athletes receive comprehensive support throughout their careers.
Representatives from archery, athletics, basketball, and other sports shared their 2024 highlights, while two new federations—cricket and surfing—were officially accepted into the BVIOC family, signaling the continued diversification of sports in the territory.
“Our open door policy remains in place for all National Federations, and we encourage you to make an appointment to meet with us on Fridays to discuss matters in which we can assist. We look forward to working together for great successes in all sports in the next quadrennial,” Penn added.
BVIOC Executive Committee: President: Ephraim Penn (returning); 1st Vice President: Sabinah Clement (returning); 2nd Vice President: Ashley Kelly (newly elected, former Athletes’ Commission Representative); Secretary General: Lloyd Black (returning); Treasurer: Mark Chapman (returning); Member at Large: Zebalon McLean
Jamaica Scorpions captain John Campbell slapped with 4-match suspension following CG United Super50 final incident
Jamaica Scorpions captain John Campbell has been suspended for four matches following a Level 3 charge related to his conduct during the CG United Super50 Final against Barbados Pride on 23 November 2024, CWI announced on Friday.
The charge, issued by Match Referee Reon King in accordance with the CWI Code of Conduct for Players and Officials, relates to Campbell's decision to not attend the toss as instructed by the umpires. In a letter to the Match Referee, Campbell apologized for the disruption.
“I sincerely regret any disruption caused during the final and acknowledge that my actions may have been perceived as resistance to the match officials’ decision,” Campbell stated. “It was never my intention to undermine their authority or bring the game into disrepute. I fully acknowledge the importance of maintaining the integrity of the game and the need for adherence to the rules and decisions of the officials.”
CWI Director of Cricket Miles Bascombe confirmed the suspension, highlighting the importance of Campbell's admission in determining the sanction:
“We appreciate Mr. Campbell's acknowledgement of the situation and his sincere apology. In light of his admission and demonstrated remorse, CWI has applied the minimum sanction of a four-match ban for a Level 3 Offence, as a matter of leniency. This will be served during the 2025 CG United Super50 Tournament.” Bascombe explained.
Bascombe also commented: “This decision reinforces the critical role of captains in upholding the values of sportsmanship and respect for the game’s integrity. We trust that John will use this experience to continue contributing positively to West Indies cricket and serve as a role model moving forward.”
CWI also confirmed that no prize money will be awarded, and no match fees will be paid to either team involved in the CG United Super50 Final. This year's champion was set to receive US$100,000.00 while the runner up would have received US$50,000.00.
In addressing the broader implications of the incident, Bascombe also commented on the situation involving Barbados Pride captain Raymon Reifer, who is facing a similar charge:
“At this stage, Raymon Reifer has not responded to the charges. Should he not respond, the matter would proceed to the disciplinary committee. Our goal is to promote accountability and ensure that all players understand the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect on and off the field.”
Tickets for Grand Slam Track™ go on sale today
Tickets for the highly anticipated Grand Slam Track™, the revolutionary global stage for elite track and field competition, go on sale today, December 6, 2024, at 10:00 AM Pacific / 1:00 PM Eastern. Founded by four-time U.S. Olympic champion Michael Johnson, who also serves as the league's commissioner, the event promises to redefine the sport with its inaugural season kicking off in Kingston, Jamaica, in April 2025.
Johnson expressed his excitement about the league’s progress, stating: "Grand Slam Track™ continues to build momentum as we get closer to our inaugural 2025 season. The attention and recognition this league is gaining is incredible, and it continues to be clear that the best in the world want to be a part of it. We’re creating something truly special – a Festival of Speed – for fans to enjoy."
The league will feature 48 top-tier athletes, known as Grand Slam Track™ Racers, competing in all four Slam events: Kingston, Miami, Philadelphia, and Los Angeles. Among the confirmed stars are Jamaicans Ackera Nugent and Roshawn Clarke, alongside global icons such as Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Fred Kerley, Marileidy Paulino, Grant Fisher, Jasmine Camacho-Quinn, Alison Dos Santos, and Jereem Richards.
Additionally, 48 Grand Slam Track™ Challengers will join individual Slams, selected based on recent performances and intriguing matchups. Racers and Challengers will compete across categories such as short sprints, hurdles, middle distance, and long distance, with each competitor racing twice during the three-day events.
Grand Slam Track™ shifts the focus from time-based performances to head-to-head competition. Unlike traditional meets, there will be no rabbits or pacing lights. Each Slam is independently scored, with a $100,000 prize for the winner of each group and $10,000 for eighth place. A total of $12.6 million in prize money will be awarded annually, alongside base compensation and appearance fees.
The league is also breaking with tradition by allowing athletes to compete in custom kits designed with their sponsors, free from traditional bibs or hip numbers. This unique approach emphasizes individuality and creativity while showcasing the athletes’ personalities.
With over $30 million in financial commitments from investors, including Winners Alliance, the league aims to revolutionize fan engagement and elevate track and field’s biggest stars through innovative storytelling.
Tickets for all four Slams are now available. Fans are encouraged to secure their seats to witness the Festival of Speed and see the world’s best athletes compete on this groundbreaking platform.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit grandslamtrack.com/events.
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