Jamaican track and field icon Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce expressed her deep gratitude after learning about the impact she had on New Zealand rugby sevens player Michaela Blyde, who recently revealed how much Fraser-Pryce inspired her growing up. Speaking with Sportsmax.TV at the AC Marriott Hotel in Kingston on Wednesday, following her Pocket Rocket Foundation’s scholarship ceremony, Fraser-Pryce reflected on her meeting with Blyde during the 2024 Paris Olympics.

“That was such a touching moment for me,” Fraser-Pryce said, recalling their encounter. “I was trying to keep a low profile, and it wasn’t low at all. But when I met her, just her presence and how she spoke of me really put things in perspective for me as an athlete. It reminded me of what I’ve been able to accomplish and how others are inspired by that. It’s why I continue to do what I do because I know there are athletes out there who need that inspiration.”

Blyde, a key player for New Zealand’s national rugby sevens team, had previously opened up about how Fraser-Pryce motivated her to dream of winning Olympic gold medals in the 100m and 200m. Meeting the Jamaican sprint queen at the Paris Olympics, she said, was life-changing. Blyde shared that she had long admired Fraser-Pryce, describing the experience as “the greatest thing that happened to her.”

Fraser-Pryce, moved by Blyde’s comments, spoke about how athletes like Blyde remind her of the broader influence she has. “There are athletes out there who can take something from your journey, and it’s truly remarkable to witness that with her. To have that friendship and bond is something special.”

In an unexpected but meaningful gesture, Fraser-Pryce attended one of Blyde’s rugby matches during the Olympic Games, marking her first time watching another sport in person at the Olympics. “Never in my entire Olympic journey have I attended any other sport. It was my first time going to another sport, and just watching the reaction from the athlete made me proud. I’m truly humbled and grateful to God for the platform He has given me and how much I’ve been able to carry, not just myself but also the national flag.”

Fraser-Pryce highlighted the significance of the moment, not just for herself, but for all Jamaicans. “It’s truly a moment not just for me, but I think for all Jamaicans to know that even though we’re a tiny dot on the map, we’re huge when it comes to our impact. People look up to us, they emulate us, and they want to be like us.”

Blyde’s emotional response to Fraser-Pryce’s presence at her match against China made the encounter even more memorable. "Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is actually the reason why I wanted to win gold in the 100m and 200m at the Olympic Games. That was my initial Olympic dream,” Blyde said in an interview. “When I saw her in person, my whole soul left my body and was watching me from above. And then she said, ‘I’ll come watch you play.’ I never imagined it would actually happen.”

Blyde recounted how surreal it felt hearing her name called from the stands during the match. “After our game against China, I heard someone calling, ‘Michaela,’ and I was like, ‘Wait, I recognize that voice.’ I looked over, and there was Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, watching us play. It’s a memory I will never forget.”

The mutual admiration between the two athletes highlights the far-reaching influence of Fraser-Pryce, whose career continues to inspire athletes across various sports around the world.

For Ann-Marie Black, a self-employed mother from rural Jamaica, raising three sprint hurdlers has been a challenging but rewarding journey. On Wednesday, that journey reached a significant milestone as her youngest daughter, Yukika Harris, was awarded a scholarship by the Pocket Rocket Foundation, led by track icon Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce. The awards, presented at the AC Marriott Hotel in Kingston, saw 20 student-athletes, including Yukika, receive scholarships, the largest number ever awarded in the foundation's 11-year history.

Black, whose elder daughters, Habiba and Winsome Harris, also Pocket Rocket Scholarship recipients, was elated. For her, the scholarship means more than just financial relief. "Being a single mom, it has helped me a lot. Knowing that they are on the scholarship, I don’t have to stress much about their school fees and stuff, so I am very, very appreciative of these scholarships," she said.

Reflecting on where her daughters’ athletic talents come from, Black proudly shared her own history of sprinting at the Springfield All-Age and Lewisville Vocational schools. "I used to run the 100m and the 200m," she revealed. Today, the legacy continues not only through her daughters but also her grandson, Martino Baker, who dreams of becoming the next Usain Bolt while running for Glen Stewart Primary School.

Yukika, a rising star at St. Elizabeth Technical High School, is determined to outshine her sisters on the track. Black recalled a moment that encapsulated her daughter’s fighting spirit. "I

remember once I said to her; I call her Mary, I said, ‘Mary, you’re tiny,’ and she replied, ‘Mommy, is Shelly-Ann Fraser big?’” Shelly-Ann, Black said, was "elated" to know that her foundation's impact was deeply appreciated by families like theirs.

Three of Black's daughters have been scholarship beneficiaries

Another proud family present at the ceremony was that of Akira Graham, a student-athlete from St. Andrew High School for Girls. Like Yukika, Akira was among the 20 students to receive a scholarship, an achievement she worked hard for. "It means that you are attentive in your work and your athletics, and this scholarship to me has just proven that once you put in the work for both parts of the journey, you can get something out of it. I think I make my parents very proud," she said with a smile.

Her parents, Stanley and Iveta Graham, couldn’t agree more. "It’s a big help; we are so proud of her," said Iveta. "She started this journey with athletics during Covid just because she wanted to get out of the house, and it was a real push for her to stay. It just shows that with determination and support, your child can do great things."

Iveta believes the scholarship is not only a recognition of her daughter’s hard work but also a crucial financial lifeline, especially as she prepares for her CXC exams. "It’s something that I would like all parents to realize, which is that their child is great, and you just need to encourage the greatness," she said. "For us, this is going to be a great help because this is her CXC year, and school is expensive."

This year’s recipients, selected from a record-breaking 162 applicants, included an outstanding group of student-athletes excelling both academically and athletically with 80 per cent of the applicant exceeding the qualifying criteria. Alas, only 20 could be selected, among them was Danielle Noble from Wolmer’s Trust High School for Girls, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to balance her education and athletics with less financial strain. Matthew Lambert of Knox College and Mattheau Thaxter of Wolmer’s Boys also earned scholarships for their dedication to both schoolwork and sport, along with Iorek Evans from Belair High School and Ajani Murphy of Guy’s Hill High School.

Michael Edwards from Jamaica College, Keelan Smith of Holy Childhood, and Keeshawn Yorke from York Castle High School, each of whom have shown remarkable talent, were also among those recognized. Shameika Dennis of St. Elizabeth Technical High School shared the honour with Yukika, as did Tirunesh Johnson of St. Mary High School and Nicholie Barclay of St. Jago High School, all of whom have consistently demonstrated excellence in both their studies and sporting endeavors.

Ruth Lewis of Belair High School, Abigail Lemard from Wolmer’s Girls, and Nevaeh Dawkins of Campion College were among the girls rewarded for their hard work, while Rickardo Mundle from Wolmer’s Boys, Ithran Softley from Papine High School, Shwayne McDermot of Knox College, and Imani Wint from Wolmer’s Girls rounded out the group of deserving recipients.

Yukika Harris receiving a gift bag courtesy of Nike from icon Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and a basket of goodies from Carlene Holness Promotions and Events Supervisor at GraceKennedy during the awards ceremony on Wednesday.

The scholarships, now in their 11th year, have grown significantly, with the Pocket Rocket Foundation having awarded 93 scholarships to date. For many of these young athletes, the scholarships are not just financial support but a validation of their hard work, discipline, and talent.

For Ann-Marie Black and the Graham family, the scholarships signify more than just a helping hand—they are a testament to the power of sport to uplift families and communities. "Sports takes us out of poverty as far as I am concerned because if you see the kids have the ability to do it, you let them do it," said Black, expressing gratitude for the opportunities her children have been given.

As Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce’s Pocket Rocket Foundation continues to grow, so too does its impact on the lives of young Jamaicans, inspiring them to reach for greatness in all aspects of their lives.

St Lucia’s double Olympic medallist Julien Alfred returned home to a rapturous welcome at the Hewanorra International Airport on Tuesday.

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre, other government members, and St. Lucia Olympic Committee personnel were among the official welcome party.

An emotional Alfred was at a loss for words.

“I don’t want to get emotional, but today I really want to give thanks,” Alfred said.

The 23-year-old, who copped gold and silver in the 100m and 200m at the Paris Games, expressed gratitude to family, friends, her village, the government, her coach Edrick Floréal, and Cuthbert ‘Twatiné’ Modeste for their unwavering support along the way.

“Even when I gave up, he [Modeste] came back to look for me in Ciceron. So many people have guided me and helped me to get to this point, and I really just want to say thank you to all of you, even those I haven’t mentioned. I just want to say thank you,” she shared.

“I have dreamt of this day for such a long time—just being an inspiration to the youth of St Lucia, wanting to give back and wanting to inspire them so we can have many more Levern Spencers and many more Daren Sammys and many more like myself,” Alfred added.

Prior to her Olympic Games exploits, Alfred also copped the World Indoor 60m title as she consistently etched her name in the annals of St Lucia’s and the world’s sporting history.

While many now share in her success, Alfred highlighted that the journey was by no means smooth sailing.

“It was truly a rocky road. Many days I wanted to just give up, throw in the towel, and just say, ‘I’m done’. But my village, those persons who were around me, I just want to say thank you for just everything you have done for me. I really appreciate it,” Alfred noted.

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre pointed out that Alfred’s athletic prowess was a reminder that the potential for excellence is very much alive in the island with a population of just over 179,000.

“Julien’s recent achievements at the Olympic Games transcend sports. They have been a source of inspiration to all St. Lucians, especially our youth,” Pierre noted.

Meanwhile, Youth Development and Sports Minister Kenson Casimir likened Alfred’s success to a blessing from God, as St. Lucia is the only nation named after a woman.

“And it is a woman that has taken us to the pinnacle of the entire globe. We are blessed because we have the perfect representative of a St. Lucian taking us to that level. Somebody who is kind. Somebody who loves people, somebody who is generous and humble. That person is Julien Alfred,” Casimir declared.

Puerto Rico’s Jasmine Camacho-Quinn, the 2021 Olympic gold medalist and 2024 bronze medalist in the 100-metre hurdles, and Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, the reigning world record holder in the 400-metre hurdles and four-time Olympic gold medalist, were honored as part of the University of Kentucky Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2024 on Friday night.

The induction ceremony, held at the Central Bank Center, celebrated the achievements of these two track and field stars along with fellow inductees John Cropp (administrator/coach), Henrik Larsen (rifle), Jodie Meeks (men's basketball), and Corey Peters (football).

Camacho-Quinn, who represented the University of Kentucky from 2016 to 2018, took to Instagram to reflect on her journey to this prestigious honour, sharing her gratitude and reflecting on her struggles. “I think I’m still lost for words," she wrote. "I started at the University of Kentucky a semester late. Spring of 2015 and was forced to redshirt. I wasn’t the most well-behaved student in high school and when I finally got my stuff together, it was too late. This caused me to stay home fall semester of 2014 and take online classes. But it was a part of my journey. This is MY story."

She went on to thank those who supported her through her college years, a time she admits was not always easy. "College wasn’t the easiest either. But everyone who truly believed in me and stuck by my side, Thank you.❤️ Thank you Mommy & Daddy. Thank you to my brothers James, Robert & Miguel. Thank you Sarah. Thank you Coach Flo. Thank you Barb & Passion. & Thank you God," she shared.

Though her college career spanned only three years, Camacho-Quinn's time at Kentucky was highly impactful. She won three NCAA titles—twice in the 100-metre hurdles (2016, 2018) and once in the 4x100m relay (2017). A six-time SEC champion, she also set four school records and remains one of the most accomplished athletes in Kentucky's track and field history.

"The journey wasn’t the easiest, but it was well worth it. Although I only got to represent for three years at Kentucky, those three years taught me so much about myself & life. Six years later after graduating, I am now a part of THE UNIVERSITY OF KENTUCKY HALL OF FAME!" she concluded.

McLaughlin-Levrone, who spent just one year at Kentucky in 2018 before turning professional, has become one of the most decorated athletes in the world. McLaughlin-Levrone set the collegiate record in the 400m hurdles during her time at UK, running 52.75 seconds to win the SEC Championship, a mark that still stands today. Her brief collegiate career also saw her win NCAA and SEC titles and break the world junior indoor 400m record.

Since leaving Kentucky, McLaughlin-Levrone has taken the track and field world by storm, winning four Olympic gold medals—two each in Tokyo and Paris—and setting the world record in the 400m hurdles in both Olympics. She most recently shattered her own record at the 2024 Paris Olympics with a stunning time of 50.37 seconds. In addition to her individual accolades, McLaughlin-Levrone anchored the U.S. women’s 4x400m relay team to gold in Paris, setting an American record in the process.

Paris Olympics 800m finalist Shafiqua Maloney was celebrated during a welcome home ceremony at the Argyle International Airport in St. Vincent and the Grenadines on Wednesday, where it was announced that she would receive USD $10,000 in recognition of her outstanding performance at the Games.

Maloney delivered a remarkable performance in the 800m final at the Paris Olympics, finishing fourth with a time of 1:57.66. In a fiercely contested race, Great Britain's Keely Hodgkinson clinched gold in 1:56.72, followed by Ethiopia's Tisge Duguma, who secured silver in a lifetime best of 1:57.15, and Kenya's Mary Moraa, who claimed bronze in 1:57.42. Maloney's near-podium finish was a significant achievement, especially considering the financial challenges she faced during her preparation for the Olympics.

The St Vincent Times reported that during the ceremony, Maloney reflected on her journey, expressing gratitude to those who supported her along the way. "This journey was not an easy one, but the support I received made all the difference," she said. With her sights set on further success, Maloney spoke about the road ahead and her aspirations for medals at the 2028 Olympics.

Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves praised Maloney for her perseverance and announced that the government would present her with USD $10,000 in recognition of her accomplishments and the pride she has brought to the nation.

Maloney's achievements have also earned her a place in the SVG delegation at the upcoming United Nations meeting, where she will accompany Prime Minister Gonsalves as he delivers his speech. This opportunity marks another milestone in her growing profile as a prominent athlete and representative of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

A grand celebration has been planned for Maloney on October 9th, where the nation will come together to honor her accomplishments and contributions to Vincentian sports. Her performance at the Paris Olympics, coupled with her resilience and ambition, has cemented her status as a national hero and a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes.

The Wanda Diamond League will increase athlete prize money to the highest levels in the series’ history from next season.

Following a decision by the Diamond League General Assembly on Sunday, the total amount of prize money paid over the course of the season will increase to US$9.24 million in 2025.

The new total is almost a third higher than the sum paid during the pandemic-affected period of 2021-2024 and the highest ever since the Diamond League’s launch in 2010. 

Including promotional fees for top athletes, a total of around US$18 million will be paid to athletes in total over the course of the 2025 season, with many more millions being invested in athlete services such as travel and transport, accommodation, and medical and physio provision.

Under the new structure, the total prize money awarded per meeting will be US$500,000 at each of the 14 regular series meetings and US$2.240 million at the Wanda Diamond League Final.

The total prize money per discipline will be between US$30,000 and US$50,000 at the series meetings and between US$60,000 and US$100,000 at the final. 

As always, prize money is entirely gender-equal, with exactly the same rates for male and female athletes. The increase will also apply to all 32 Diamond disciplines, benefitting athletes across the full diversity of track and field. 
 
The increase in prize money reflects the Wanda Diamond League’s position as athletics’ premier one-day series and the backbone of the outdoor season for the world’s biggest stars. 

With 15 meetings in 13 countries on four different continents, the series provides elite athletes from across the globe with a chance to compete at the highest level from April to September. 

Since 2010, the series and its meetings have invested an estimated US$270 million in athletes: US$180 million in promotional fees and prize money, and around US$90 million in athlete services.
  
As it enters its 16th season in 2025, CEO of Diamond League AG, Petr Stastny, said the series will continue to provide the best conditions possible and highest level services for athletes in all disciplines. 

“The Wanda Diamond League remains committed to rewarding the athletes more whilst at the same time ensuring the long-term sustainability of the series, so it continues to provide vital competition to the athletes for many more years to come,” Stastny declared.

“In an ever-changing landscape in the sports, media, and entertainment world, we have always been on the forefront of innovation in our sport of athletics. Featuring a total of 32 disciplines over each season, we provide the world's best athletes the opportunity to compete at the highest possible level. Having competitors from around 100 countries every year allows for TV audiences in 150 countries and territories, making our series a truly universal and global league,” he added. 

Decorated Grenadian quarter-miler Kirani James and West Indies cricket legend Sir Curtly Ambrose are set to be honoured with honorary doctorate degrees from the University of the West Indies (UWI), according to reports. They are among 13 distinguished individuals recognized for their outstanding contributions to the Caribbean region, with ceremonies scheduled across UWI's five campuses from October 12 to November 9, 2024.

Kirani James, renowned as one of the most accomplished 400m runners in history, will receive the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws (LLD). James, who made history as Grenada's first Olympic gold medalist, has consistently excelled on the global stage. He is one of only nine athletes ever to win world titles at the youth, junior, and senior levels and is the first athlete to secure three individual Olympic medals in the 400m, with gold in 2012, silver in 2016, and bronze in 2020. James also boasts three World Championship medals, including gold in 2011.

Beyond his illustrious athletic career, James has demonstrated a commitment to education and community development. He holds a Bachelor's degree in General Business and serves on the Board of Directors of the Windward Islands Research & Education Foundation (WINDREF), where he contributes to the Sport for Health programme. His recognition by UWI not only celebrates his athletic achievements but also acknowledges his broader contributions to Grenadian society and the Caribbean region.

Joining James among the honorees is Sir Curtly Ambrose, the legendary fast bowler from Antigua and Barbuda, who will also be conferred with an honorary Doctor of Laws (LLD) degree. Ambrose, one of cricket's all-time greats, terrorized batsmen worldwide during his career, helping to cement the West Indies' dominance in the sport during the late 1980s and 1990s. His remarkable impact on cricket has left a lasting legacy, making him a fitting recipient of this distinguished recognition.

In its official statement, UWI emphasized the importance of celebrating individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields, including sports, culture, medicine, and human rights. "This year's recipients have excelled in advocacy, medicine, tourism, culture, sports, business, education, science, and music," UWI stated, highlighting the diverse achievements of those being honored.

The UWI graduation ceremonies will take place across its campuses in Antigua, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and globally via the UWI Open Campus, each marking the contributions of the honorees in their respective fields. James' recognition will take place on November 9 at the Global Campus, while Sir Curtly Ambrose will be honoured at the Five Islands Campus ceremony in Antigua on October 12.

After a disappointing exit in the semi-finals of the 100m at the Paris Olympics in August, Jamaica's Ackeem Blake made it his mission to win the Diamond League title. The 22-year-old sprinter, who had entered the Olympics with high hopes, was left dejected after finishing fifth in his semi-final heat with a time of 10.06 seconds. However, Blake was determined not to let that setback define his season.

With the guidance of his coach, Michael Frater, Blake refocused his efforts on the Diamond League Final in Brussels. "After a devastating exit in the semi-finals at the Paris Olympics, my team and I decided that we must put all our resources into making and taking the Diamond League Final," Blake revealed on Instagram after his victory.

The Jamaican sprinter knew that he needed to prove himself on the international stage, and the Diamond League presented the perfect opportunity to do so.

Blake's resolve to rebound from his Olympic disappointment was fueled by the belief that he had more to offer. Earlier in the year, he had shown glimpses of his potential by winning a bronze medal in the 60m dash at the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow. With a personal best of 9.89 seconds, Blake knew he had the speed to compete with the world's best. What he needed was the mental fortitude to bounce back after a major setback.

Frater played a crucial role in this mental and physical preparation. Blake credited his coach for guiding him through every phase of his comeback. “In this moment, I was deeply focused,” Blake said. “I could hear my coach guiding me through every phase of the race.” The meticulous planning and intense focus that went into preparing for the Diamond League paid off as Blake stormed to victory in a time of 9.93 seconds, defeating a high-calibre field that included American sprinters Christian Coleman and Fred Kerley.

Blake's triumph in the Diamond League was not just about the win itself but about redemption and resilience. It was a testament to his determination to overcome adversity and a reminder that setbacks can serve as stepping stones to success.

Grenada’s javelin thrower Anderson Peters and Puerto Rico’s sprint hurdler Jasmine Camacho-Quinn were on song in their respective events, as they brought the curtains down on the season in champion fashion on day two of the Diamond League finals in Brussels on Saturday.

While Peters and Camacho-Quinn logged the only victories, it was another positive day all-round for Caribbean athletes, as Jamaica’s Shiann Salmon, Ackera Nugent, and Rajindra Campbell, as well as the Dominican Republic’s Alexander Ogando, all secured podium finishes to also end their seasons on a high.

Camacho-Quinn, the Paris Olympic Games bronze medallist, left rivals in her wake to win the women’s 100m hurdles in 12.38s. Dutchwoman Nadine Fisherman (12.54s) and Jamaica’s Ackera Nugent (12.55s) secured the other podium spots. Another Jamaican, Danielle Williams (12.62s), was fifth.

Peters, also a bronze medallist from the Paris Olympics, again demonstrated his rich vein of form with an opening throw of 87.87m that was not to be beaten. India’s Neeraj Chopra (87.86m) kept things interesting but had to settle for second, while Germany’s Julian Weber (85.97m) was third.

For Salmon (53.99s), a well-paced race proved rewarding as she stayed on for third in the Women’s 400m hurdles, even after stumbling over the final obstacle. The event was won by Dutchwoman Femke Bol (52.45s), who secured a third consecutive Diamond League title, while American Anna Cockrell was second in 53.71s.

The other Jamaicans, Janieve Russell (55.94s) and Andrenette Knight (56.70s), were seventh and eighth, respectively.

Brazil’s Alison dos Santos reigned supreme in the men’s 400m hurdles, as he outclassed the field to win in 47.93s. Qatar’s Abderrahman (48.20s) and Estonia’s Rasmus Magi (48.26s) were second and third, respectively.

Jamaican duo Roshawn Clarke (49.08s) and Malik James-King (49.37s) were fifth and sixth, respectively, in the men’s 400m hurdles.

Meanwhile, Ogando (19.97s) placed third in the men’s 200m, which was won by American Kenneth Bednarek in a brisk 19.67s. Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo (19.80s) was well-beaten into second.

Earlier, Campbell took bronze in the men’s shot put with a best throw of 21.95m. The event was won in fine style by Italy’s Leonardo Fabbri, who threw a meet record of 22.98m. American Ryan Crouser (22.79m) was second.

Elsewhere in the field, Jamaica’s Romaine Beckford struggled for rhythm in the men’s high jump and had to settle for fourth at 2.22m. Italy’s Gianmarco Tamberi finished tops at 2.34m, with Ukraine’s Oleg Doroshchuk (2.31m) and South Korea’s Woo Sanghyeok (2.225m) taking second and third, respectively.

The opening day of the Diamond League Finals in Brussels on Friday was a triumphant one for Caribbean athletes, as Julien Alfred, Ackeem Blake, Tajay Gayle, and Marileidy Paulino all capped their seasons as champions, showcasing their dominance on the global stage.

 Julien Alfred, fresh off her historic Olympic gold in Paris, exacted revenge on American rival Sha’Carri Richardson in the women’s 100m. Alfred clocked 10.88 seconds, beating out Britain’s Dina Asher-Smith, who led for much of the race but finished second in 10.92. Côte d'Ivoire's Marie-Josée Ta Lou secured third in 11.05, while Richardson, who had edged Alfred in their last meeting in Zurich, faded to eighth in 11.23.

 Reflecting on her win, Alfred expressed her joy at finishing the season on a high. "I am so happy, it feels amazing to finish my season on a good note and to take the win. I am just so proud of myself. My preparation was a bit difficult, it was really hard for me after Zurich. But I think that actually prepared me for Brussels. That gave me the energy to do so good today, and during [the race], I tried to relax and to enjoy the last race of my season."

 Alfred hinted that losing her previous race to Richardson fueled her determination to perform well in Brussels. "I think losing kind of put me up again, I had to perform. I wanted to prove to myself that I deserve to be here and that I am not a one-time thing. Because after Zurich, I watched the race on YouTube to analyze my race, and I read some comments that said I was a one-time thing, and that’s really not nice to say. But I was here to prove to myself that I can win. But sometimes those comments can be very hard. And now I am going back to Saint Lucia and to Aruba! Last year I stayed in Austin, but not this year."

 Jamaica’s Ackeem Blake delivered one of the performances of the night, storming to victory in the men’s 100m in 9.93 seconds. In a field that included heavyweights like Olympic bronze medalist Fred Kerley, Christian Coleman, and Akani Simbine, Blake was the only sprinter to dip below 10 seconds. Coleman finished second in 10.00, while Kerley was third in 10.01. 

Blake, still riding high after a breakout season, admitted that he was surprised by his victory. "For me, it was a surprise to win here today. It was a very competitive field, and this was my first Diamond League final. It really means a lot," Blake said. "I’ve been working very hard this season, and I know this is just the beginning. There’s much more to come in the next few years."

 Marileidy Paulino, the Olympic 400m champion and the fastest woman in the world this year, continued her dominance by winning the 400m in 49.45 seconds. USA’s Alexis Holmes finished second in 50.32, with Ireland’s Rhasidat Adeleke rounding out the top three in 50.96.

 Jamaica's Stacey-Ann Williams secured second in the Women’s Invitational 400m, clocking 50.53, while Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone delivered a powerful performance to win the Invitational 400m in 49.11 seconds, underlining her incredible ability over the distance. Romania's Andrea Miklos finished third in 51.16.

 Stephenie-Ann McPherson, who will retire at the end of this season, finished fourth in her final Diamond League race with a time of 51.24, marking the end of an illustrious career.

In the men’s 400m, Grenadian legend Kirani James narrowly missed out on the title, finishing second in 44.63 behind Great Britain’s Charles Dobson, who won in 44.49. Zambia’s Muzala Samukonga finished third in 44.69.

  Tajay Gayle, who had endured an up-and-down season, saved his best for last, leaping to a season’s best of 8.28m to win the men’s long jump. Switzerland’s Simon Ehammer finished second with a jump of 8.16m, while Olympic champion Miltiadis Tentoglou settled for third at 8.15m.

 Despite his inconsistent performances throughout the season, Gayle's championship-winning leap reaffirmed his status as one of the best in the world.

 In the women’s triple jump, Cuba’s Leyanis Perez Hernandez claimed the title with a jump of 14.37m. Jamaica’s Shanieka Ricketts secured silver with a leap of 14.22m on her final attempt, while her compatriot Ackelia Smith jumped to 14.11m to take third.

 Jamaica’s Natoya Goule-Toppin battled hard to secure third place in the women’s 800m, clocking 1:58.94. Kenya’s Mary Moraa took the win in 1:56.56, while Great Britain’s Georgia Bell finished second in 1:57.50.

 With several standout performances, Caribbean athletes wrapped up their Diamond League campaigns in style, proving once again their dominance in world athletics.

Olympic 400m finalist Jereem Richards on Wednesday has been rewarded with additional financial support from Trinidad & Tobago’s Ministry of Sport and Community Development.

The 30-year-old, who finished fourth in the 400m final in Paris in a national record 43.78, collected a cheque for $187,500 from acting permanent secretary in the Ministry of Sport and Community Development, David Roberts, at its head office in Port of Spain.

“Jereem’s performance at the recent Paris 2024 Olympics games and his subsequent bronze medal at the Diamond League, showed true grit and a determination to succeed,” T&T’s Minister of Sport, Shamfa Cudjoe-Lewis, told Trinidad Express.

“We at the Ministry are committed to ensuring that athletes are given all that they need to reach their highest levels of performance,” she added.

The funding was awarded under the Elite Athlete Assistance Programme (EAAP) designed to help athletes like Richards to cover costs including training, international competition and travel fees as well as other essential expenses.

A Ministry release on September 11 stated that, “similar to other athletes, the Ministry has continuously supported Richards’ athletic development which allowed him to successfully compete on the international stage. In 2019, Jereem Richards was awarded $125,000 and $187,500 in 2021. In 2022, he received $250,000 and in 2023 he was awarded a further $250,000.”

Richards is also a World Indoor 400m champion from 2022, a two-time Commonwealth Games 200m champion from 2018 and 2022 and a World Championship 200m bronze medallist from 2017.

In the wake of Julien Alfred's historic gold medal victory at the 2024 Paris Olympics, St Lucia’s Prime Minister, Phillip J. Pierre, has announced a significant allocation of USD$8 million for the rehabilitation of the George Odlum Stadium. This investment aims to restore the stadium to its original purpose and ensure that the nation’s athletes have access to world-class facilities.

The announcement comes as the island prepares to embark on five days of celebration from September 24-28 in honour of Alfred’s remarkable achievements. Alfred made history by winning St Lucia's first-ever Olympic gold medal in the 100m with a national record of 10.72 seconds. She followed that performance by securing the country’s second Olympic medal with a silver in the 200m, finishing behind the USA's Gabby Thomas. In recognition of Alfred’s historic accomplishments, September 27 has been declared a public holiday on the island.

Prime Minister Pierre, speaking on the allocation for the stadium, emphasized its importance for the future of St Lucia’s athletes. "We have allocated USD$8 million for the rehabilitation of the George Odlum Stadium to return it to the athletes of Saint Lucia," Pierre announced. The stadium, named after the former politician and diplomat George Odlum, has been a central hub for the island’s sports activities but has fallen into disrepair over the years.

This investment is seen as a vital step in supporting the next generation of athletes, inspired by Alfred’s success, and providing them with the facilities needed to compete on the world stage.

In addition to the stadium's rehabilitation, Prime Minister Pierre also signed two contracts with the Saudi Fund for Development, securing USD$6.9 million to complete the long-delayed St. Jude Hospital.

For the first time in its 15-year history, the project has secured all necessary funding, facilitating the transfer of patients, doctors, and staff back to its original operation site. "I would like to thank H.E. Sultan Abdulraham A Almarshad of the Saudi Fund for Development for partnering with us as we continue to work towards the completion and reopening of St. Jude Hospital," Pierre said.

As St Lucia honours its newly crowned Olympic champion with public celebrations, the government’s investment in sports infrastructure signals its commitment to nurturing talent and building on the island’s growing success in athletics. The rehabilitation of the George Odlum Stadium will undoubtedly play a crucial role in the island’s sporting future, as the next generation looks to follow in Julien Alfred’s golden footsteps.

Renowned track and field coach, formerly of Munro College, Kingston College and Jamaica College, has taken his wealth of coaching experience to St Elizabeth Technical High School (STETHS), where he is set to play a key role in the development of the institution's sporting programmes.

Coach Harrison officially joined the STETHS team on September 2, after having worked with the school in an unofficial capacity during the summer.

Harrison, a seasoned Physical Education teacher and coach, will not only continue his role on the track but will also extend his expertise to the school’s football programme. His responsibilities at STETHS go beyond coaching, as he will be tasked with overseeing the school's entire sports programme, ensuring that there are comprehensive development initiatives in place for student-athletes.

Principal Keith Wellington, speaking on Harrison’s appointment, highlighted the coach’s experience and leadership qualities as crucial additions to the school’s sports culture. "Coach Harrison brings significant experience and maturity as a Physical Education teacher, coach, and mentor," Wellington said. "He is expected to provide guidance, mentorship, and technical leadership to our overall sports programmes. It is also expected that Coach Harrison's addition to the STETHS team will lead to more of our student-athletes optimizing their talents across our various school programmes."

In addition to his coaching duties, Harrison will serve as a classroom teacher at STETHS, fostering the holistic development of students both academically and athletically. His mandate also includes the coordination of sports activities, working closely with Wellington to ensure that STETHS’ co-curricular programmes are robust and inclusive.

Harrison’s distinguished coaching career includes stints at Kingston College, where he served from 2014 to 2018, and Jamaica College, where he led the school to victory in the ISSA Boys and Girls National Championships in 2021. Despite his success, his contract at Jamaica College was not renewed for the 2024/2025 academic year, paving the way for his new role at STETHS.

With his extensive experience and proven track record of success, Coach Harrison's presence is expected to enhance STETHS' already formidable sports tradition, especially in track and field and football. Principal Wellington remains confident that Harrison will provide the technical expertise and mentorship necessary to elevate the school's athletic achievements.

STETHS has long been known as a powerhouse in rural Jamaica, and the addition of Coach Harrison to the team signals their intent to continue that legacy while nurturing young talent for years to come.

Newly re-elected President of the St Kitts and Nevis Athletics Association (SKNAA), Delwayne Delaney, has ambitious plans to boost the country's athletics program, with the pivotal involvement of 2003 World 100m Champion, Kim Collins. Delaney, who secured his second term as president on September 7, revealed that the legendary Collins will play a central role in enhancing the development of athletes, coaches, and officials in the twin-island nation.

“Just probably a week from now, we will be making an announcement as it relates to Mr Collins,” Delaney told Sportsmax.TV during an interview on Wednesday. “He is our world champion, he is still a household name within track and field,” he said. “He is still recognized on the global market, and even if persons haven’t heard about St Kitts and Nevis, they mention Kim Collins and they say, ‘Ah, yes, I know.’ So, we definitely have to be tapping into his expertise where he can lend his support in moving the product forward.”

Delaney, himself a former sprinter and 2011 Pan American Games silver medalist in the 4x100m relay, emphasized that Collins’ global recognition and vast experience would be crucial in helping to modernize the country’s athletics landscape. The president believes that involving Collins in their strategy will not only inspire younger athletes but also provide invaluable insights into competing at the highest level.

Delaney (c) and some members of his new executive elected on Saturday, September 7.

The broader vision for athletics in St Kitts and Nevis involves a comprehensive development plan that will encompass athlete training, coaching education, and the upskilling of officials. Delaney noted that the nation has long had the talent to compete internationally, but strategic development and adaptation to the modern demands of track and field are necessary to reach new heights.

“We think that we have a good product here in St Kitts and Nevis. We have always had a good product here and I think honing into those athletes and those nuances that we have will definitely benefit the sport and ultimately, the athletes who are the main stakeholders in all of this,” Delaney explained.

“We look forward to a very productive tenure moving forward. We have a very good crop of athletes, we just need to further develop them.

The SKNAA president also took the opportunity to shine a spotlight on some of the nation’s rising stars, including Carifta medalist De’Cheynelle Thomas, Akanye Samuels, Chesson Liburd, T’anna Liburd, Jaylen Bennett, Naquille Harris, and Zahra Allers-Liburd. He expressed optimism that with the proper guidance, these athletes could help St Kitts and Nevis become a “real force” in athletics.

 Track and field now is not the same as when I used to compete back in the mid-2000s. The standards and qualification processes for major meets have changed, so we need to get our athletes and coaches up to par to remain competitive,” Delaney explained.

Delaney emphasized the importance of creating an enabling environment for athletes and coaches to thrive, noting that partnerships with both the public and private sectors will be crucial in achieving these goals. He also highlighted the strong relationship St Kitts and Nevis shares with regional training programs, particularly those in Jamaica.

“We will explore collaboration with the private sector, public sector—that being government—and even our regional partners. We have had a very good relationship with the clubs and camps in Jamaica, having trained there quite extensively with Mr (Glen) Mills and forging relationships with the MVP Camp, my former teammate Michael Frater, and others. With a strategic approach, we can gain much,” Delaney said.

Multiple-time Olympic and World Champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is to be presented with the Keys to the City of Kingston by the Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation (KSAMC).

The resolution to confer the honour on the sprint sensation was passed during today's meeting of the Council held in the Marcus Garvey Council Chamber, 24 Church Street, downtown Kingston.

Fraser-Pryce is widely revered as one of Jamaica's greatest athletes, with more than 22 years of stellar performance in the 60m, 100m, 200m, and 4x100 metre track events, and is the recipient of countless medals.

Moving the resolution, Councillor for the Hagley Park Division, Waynette Strachan, said the world-class athlete has made all of Jamaica proud and has transcended the boundaries of sport to become an icon, a symbol of hope, and an ambassador for Jamaica's rich and vibrant culture.

“To give Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce the Keys to Kingston is to acknowledge not only her incredible achievements as an athlete but her profound influence as a role model, mentor, and beacon of hope for all Jamaicans.

“In giving Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce the Keys to the City, we are not just honouring her past accomplishments; we're celebrating the promise of all that is yet to come. Her journey is far from over, and I have no doubt that she will continue to inspire, uplift, and break barriers for many years to come,” she said.

Born and raised in Waterhouse, Fraser-Pryce is a treasured citizen of Kingston and outstanding Jamaican.

She continues to give back to the community of her birth and notable charities through her Pocket Rocket Foundation.

Councillor for the Waterhouse Division, Bryon Lee Clarke, said Fraser-Pryce continues to be a beacon of hope for many Jamaicans, and “this gesture is more than deserving.”.

Councillor for the Stony Hill Division, Tosha Schwapp, described Fraser-Pryce as a “Jamaican gem and icon who is beloved for her tenacity.”.

Other Councillors who made contributions were Dennis Gordon, Eugene Kelly, Andrew Harris, and Jermaine Hyatt.

The presentation of the Keys to the City of Kingston is the highest honour that can be bestowed by the KSAMC.

It is being conferred on Fraser-Pryce in recognition of her sterling and iconic career in athletics over the years, which has positively influenced adoring fans in Jamaica and around the world, including many who continue to enjoy her enduring legacy.

A road in the community of Waterhouse will also be named in her honour.