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.

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.

Jamaica's Ackera Nugent continued her stellar form at the Rome Diamond League meeting on Friday, setting a new world-leading time and leading a strong showing by Caribbean athletes who secured multiple podium finishes.

Nugent, who had already made headlines with a meet record of 12.29 in Silesia, Poland last week, delivered another masterclass in the 100m hurdles, clocking an impressive 12.24 seconds. Her time not only eclipsed the previous meet record of 12.37 set by Jasmine Camacho-Quinn in June 2022 but also improved her own national record of 12.28, set earlier this year at the Jamaica National Championships. Nugent's performance was even more remarkable, given the negative wind of -0.4m/s during the race.

Nugent, who reached the finals of the Paris Olympics but was unable to complete the race, showcased her resilience and exceptional form with this victory. Despite the significance of defeating American Masai Russell, who won in Paris and finished second in Rome with a time of 12.31, Nugent emphasized that her win was not about revenge but about capitalizing on her current shape.

"This victory is not like revenge for the Olympics for me. I am just in really good shape. I was injured before, and this is a new experience for me. I am still so young. I still got to show up," Nugent remarked. "My emotions? I guess they have not kicked in yet because I am still so full of adrenaline. I cannot tell you. Yeah, I kind of expected to win here. I really enjoyed this race."

Nadine Visser of the Netherlands rounded out the podium, finishing third in 12.52.

Frenchman Sasha Zhoya won the 110m hurdles in 13.18 ahead of Spain’s Azier Martinez, who just edged Jamaica’s Omar McLeod for second place. Martinez finished in 13.27 to McLeod’s 13.28.

In other events, Jamaica's Romaine Beckford achieved a new lifetime best in the men's high jump, clearing 2.30m to secure second place. The victory went to Sanghyeok Woo, who also cleared 2.30m but claimed the win with a cleaner record.

The men’s 400m saw an intense battle, with Muzala Samukonga of Zimbabwe emerging victorious in 43.99 seconds. Grenada's Kirani James and Trinidad and Tobago's Jereem Richards claimed the remaining podium spots, finishing in 44.30 and 44.55 seconds, respectively.

In the men's discus, Olympic champion Roje Stona of Jamaica had to settle for second place with a throw of 67.85m, as Slovenia’s Kristjan Čeh secured the win with a massive effort of 68.61m. World record holder Mykolas Alekna finished third with a throw of 67.68m. Stona, competing in his first Diamond League meet, expressed mixed emotions after the event.

"This is my first time in Rome, my first time at a Diamond League. I got beaten at the last attempt, but these things happen in sport," Stona reflected. "I had my opportunities. But, yes, I am a bit disappointed. The result is still good. But I am never really satisfied."

Shian Salmon delivered a brave performance in the women’s 400m hurdles, finishing second behind American Olympic silver medalist Anna Cockrell, who won in a commanding 52.59 seconds. Salmon clocked 53.20 seconds, while Shamier Little of the United States was third in 54.15 seconds. Jamaica's Janieve Russell finished fourth, and Andrenette Knight, who led early in the race, faded to fifth.

In an impressive piece of sprinting to close out the meet, Olympic 200m champion, Letsile Tebogo provided a glimpse of the future with a fantastic run to win the 100m final, easing past Americans Christian Coleman and Fred Kerley, to win in 9.87 shutting down. Coleman was second in 9.92 with Kerley close behind in third in 9.95.
Jamaica's Ackeem Blake was fourth in 10.03.

Grenada’s athletes to the Paris Olympic Games are set to be feted with much pomp and pageantry when they return home over the weekend, following their credible performance at the recently-concluded global multi-sport showpiece.

The six-member team comprising Kirani James, Lindon Victor, Anderson Peters, Halle Hazzard, Tilly Collymore and Zachary Gresham will be celebrated for their efforts in track and field and in the pool, as they gave Grenada much to be proud of.

Victor’s decathlon bronze, as well as Peters javelin bronze represents the Spice Isle’s highest-ever medal haul at an Olympic Games.

James, the island’s most decorated athlete, just missed out on a medal in the men’s 400m, as he placed fifth.

In a press release issued on Wednesday, the Government of Grenada announced that ceremonies will take place on Saturday August 17 and Sunday, August 18.

Peters, James and Victor will arrive on Saturday.

“The activities have been put in place to celebrate athletes who have brought glory and honour to our land,” said Acting Minister of Sports Delma Thomas.

“Let’s get together and be part of the grandest welcome ever, as we celebrate Grenadian resilience and excellence,” she added, while encouraging citizens throughout Grenada to organize in their various communities to participate, especially in the events on Sunday.

The athletes will be greeted by government officials, sport associations’ executives and family members, while Grenadians are invited to join the greeting party outside of the airport at 2:00pm. The weekend’s activities will also include a national motorcade on Sunday, August 18, which begins at Morne Rouge and a recognition rally at the Playing field in Victor’s home parish La Sagesse.

Thomas also hinted at some major announcements regarding the development of sports that will be made at the La Sagesse rally. Packages to honour all the Olympians will also be unveiled in a special address by Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell.

Following an electrifying 400m final at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games on Wednesday, Great Britain's Matthew Hudson-Smith made a powerful and emotional statement as he celebrated his silver medal win. Hudson-Smith, who clocked a lifetime best and set a new European record with a time of 43.44 seconds, proudly waved both the British and Jamaican flags above his head, paying tribute to his roots in a moment of triumph.

The race was one for the history books, with the first five finishers all breaking the 44-second barrier in what has become one of the fastest 400m races ever. The gold medal was claimed by the USA’s Quincy Hall, who edged out Hudson-Smith with a lifetime best of 43.40 seconds. Muzala Samukonga of Zimbabwe secured the bronze with a national record of 43.74 seconds, just ahead of Trinidad and Tobago’s Jereem Richards, who also set a national record and personal best of 43.78 seconds. Kirani James of Grenada, the 2012 Olympic champion, finished fifth in 43.87 seconds, underscoring the extraordinary quality of the race.

In the aftermath of his remarkable achievement, Hudson-Smith took to social media to explain the significance of the Jamaican flag in his celebration. The gesture, he revealed, was a heartfelt tribute to his Jamaican heritage and, in particular, to his grandmothers, both of whom are Jamaican.

“I haven’t seen both my grandmothers who are Jamaican in a while, so I held the Jamaican flag as an ‘I love you’ to them. They are my biggest supporters, along with my mum who was born in Jamaica. I just wanted to represent my family,” Hudson-Smith shared.

The 29-year-old sprinter’s homage to his Jamaican roots resonated deeply with his fans and family alike, as he further added, “I hope they picked up on the gesture so when I get back to the UK, I can get some more oxtail.”

Hudson-Smith’s victory and his subsequent tribute to his heritage highlight the profound connection many athletes feel to their cultural backgrounds, even as they compete on the world’s biggest stage. His silver medal win not only cements his place as one of Europe’s finest sprinters but also as a proud ambassador of his rich Jamaican lineage.

Trinidad & Tobago’s Jereem Richards produced the best 400m race of his life but it just narrowly placed him outside the medals at the Paris Olympics on Wednesday.

The 30-year-old, who entered Wednesday’s Men’s 400m final at the Stade de France with a personal best of 44.18 done at the London Diamond League on July 20 this year, produced a national record 43.78 to finish fourth.

The previous national record of 44.01 was held by Machel Cedenio who ran that time in a fourth-place finish at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Running out of lane nine, Richards went out extremely hard in the first 300m before being caught by the field in the last portion of the race.

American Quincy Hall won his maiden Olympic title with a brilliant personal best 44.40, the fourth fastest time in history.

Great Britain’s Matthew Hudson-Smith, like he did at the World Championships in Budapest last year, took silver with a European record 43.44 while Zambia’s Muzala Samukonga ran 43.74, a national record, to take bronze just ahead of Richards.

Grenadian 2012 Olympic champion Kirani James was fifth in 43.87. USA’s Chris Bailey (44.58), Nigeria’s Samuel Ogazi (44.73) and USA’s Michael Norman (45.62) rounded out the top eight.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Jereem ‘The Dream’ Richards and Grenada’s Kirani James ensured the Caribbean will have two shots at a medal in the men’s 400m at the Paris Olympic Games, as both progressed to the final after tidy semi-final performances at the Stade de France on Tuesday.

Richards, hunting his first Olympic Games medal, finished second in semi-final one in 44.33s, behind American Quincy Hall, who won in 43.95s.

James, a three-time Olympic medallist in the event, seems poised to add to his tally as he rekindled his form of old with a blistering season’s best 43.78s clocking in winning semi-final two. It was just outside his personal best of 43.74s.

Meanwhile, Jamaica’s lone semi-finalist, Jevaughn Powell (44.91s), produced a gallant performance for fourth in semi-final three, but it was not enough to progress.

The other finalists are Great Britain’s Matthew Hudson-Smith (44.07s), American Michael Norman (44.26s), and Christopher Bailey (44.31s), as well as Zambia’s Muzala Samukonga (43.81) and Samuel Ogazi (44.71s) of Nigeria.

The final is scheduled for Wednesday August 7.

Trinidad and Tobago's Jereem Richards, Grenada's Kirani James, and Jamaica's Jevaughn Powell have successfully advanced to the semi-final round of the men’s 400m at the 2024 Paris Olympics following their performances on Sunday.

Richards led the Caribbean charge with an impressive time of 44.31, finishing second in Heat 2 behind 2022 World Champion Michael Norman of the USA, who clocked the fastest time of the preliminary round at 44.10. Richards' strong performance secures him a spot in the semi-finals and continues his quest for Olympic glory.

James, the 2012 Olympic champion, had a comfortable run in Heat 5, winning in 44.78. James finished ahead of Canada’s Christopher Morales Williams, who crossed the line in 44.96, ensuring his place in the next round.

Jamaica's Jevaughn Powell also made it through to the semi-finals, finishing third in Heat 6 with a time of 45.12. The heat was won by Great Britain’s Charles Dobson in 44.96, with Belgium’s Alexander Doom taking second in 45.01.

However, it wasn’t smooth sailing for all Caribbean competitors. Jamaica’s national champion Deandre Watkin and compatriot Sean Bailey will need to utilize the newly introduced repechage round for another chance to advance. Bailey ran a respectable 44.68 in Heat 2 but could only manage fifth place. Watkin, who initially looked strong, faded over the last 150m in the opening heat and finished seventh with a time of 45.97. This heat was won by Great Britain's Matthew Hudson-Smith in 44.78.

Both Watkin and Bailey will hope for better performances in the repechage round set for Monday morning, giving them a final opportunity to make it to the semi-finals and keep their Olympic dreams alive.

The performances of Richards, James, and Powell highlight the strength and depth of Caribbean sprinting talent. As they move on to the semi-finals, they carry with them the hopes and expectations of their nations, aiming to make a significant impact on the Olympic stage.

Caribbean athletes showcased their prowess at the New York Grand Prix on Sunday, delivering a series of standout performances. However, the event was marred by a potentially devastating setback for double-double Olympic champion Elaine Thompson-Herah, who sustained an injury just weeks before the Jamaican national championships.

Kirani James, Devynne Charlton, Rasheed Broadbell, and Carey Johnson emerged as the stars of the day, demonstrating their elite capabilities on the international stage.

Thompson-Herah, who has been eyeing a historic third consecutive 100m and 200m Olympic double in Paris this summer, saw her season cast into doubt. Competing in the 100m dash, she appeared to start well but ultimately finished last in 11.48 seconds, visibly limping and requiring assistance off the track afterward.

“I felt something uncomfortable as I began to push. I still tried to go but it got worse so I am awaiting professional advice moving forward. Thanks for your continued support,” Thompson-Herah posted on Instagram.

The race was won by Favour Ofili, who clocked a season’s best of 11.18. The USA’s Morolake Akunison and Aleia Hobbs finished second and third in 11.20 and 11.21, respectively.

In the women’s 100m hurdles, Devynne Charlton showcased her dominance by clinching victory in a tightly contested race. Battling a headwind of -1.9m/s, the world indoor 60m champion edged ahead to win in 12.56 seconds. Alaysha Johnson was a close second in 12.58, while 100m hurdles world record holder Tobi Amusan finished third in 12.66.

The men's 110m hurdles saw another thrilling race, with Rasheed Broadbell narrowly missing out on victory. In a repeat of their Racer’s Grand Prix encounter, the USA’s Trey Cunningham held off Broadbell, winning in 13.21 seconds to Broadbell’s 13.28. Michael Dickson of the USA took third in 13.45, with Jamaica’s Tyler Mason finishing fourth in 13.52.

The men’s 400m was a highlight of the meet, delivering a nail-biting finish. As the runners entered the home stretch, Kirani James surged ahead to clinch victory in 44.55 seconds. Chris Bailey secured second place in 44.73, narrowly edging out South Africa’s Wayde van Niekerk, who finished third in 44.74. Trinidad and Tobago’s Jereem Richards also impressed, finishing fourth with a season’s best of 44.82.

However, the performance of the meet came from Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, who delivered a spectacular performance in the women’s 400m, clocking 48.75 seconds despite running into a headwind. Her time was the second fastest ever by an American woman and eclipsed the previous world lead of 48.89 set by Jamaica’s Nikisha Pryce just a day earlier. Talitha Diggs finished a distant second in 50.91, with Jamaica’s Stacey-Ann Williams close behind in 50.94 for third.

In the 200m events, Gabby Thomas won the women’s race in 20.42, while Noah Lyles dominated the men’s event, finishing in 19.77.

Despite the mixed fortunes, the performances of Caribbean athletes like Kirani James, Devynne Charlton, and Rasheed Broadbell highlighted their readiness for the upcoming championships and underscored their potential for the Paris Olympics. However, the injury to Elaine Thompson-Herah cast a shadow over the day, leaving fans and fellow athletes hoping for her swift recovery and return to the track.

The Bislett Games Diamond League meeting in Oslo delivered a night of thrilling performances and unexpected outcomes on Thursday. While Rushell Clayton and Marileidy Paulino emerged victorious in their respective events, two-time world champion Shericka Jackson had a disappointing finish in the 200m.

World leader Rushell Clayton continued her stellar season, winning the 400m hurdles in 54.02 seconds despite challenging weather conditions. Clayton, who has been dominant in the event, controlled the race from the start and pulled away decisively towards the end. Compatriot Andrenette Knight finished second with a season-best 54.63 after a strong challenge but faded after the final hurdle. Commonwealth Games champion Janieve Russell rounded out the Jamaican sweep, securing third place with a season-best 55.07.

Clayton, whose time of 53.72 is fastest in the world this year was happy with the win.

"I have never expected the conditions like that but nevertheless, it was a good race. My execution felt well and I cannot ask for more than to win. It is always good to win. Each race is a challenge and I am working towards a bigger goal," she said breathlessly afterward.

"So whenever these ladies decide to compete, I will be there to do the same, to compete. My next plans: to train, train, train... and I need to do the national championships. I am literally training through all these meets. I have training tomorrow, the next day, I do what my coach decides. It is hurting. My main goal - to get to the Olympics and to win a medal. My last and ultimate goal of the season."

The men's 400m hurdles race lived up to the hype, even with the late withdrawal of world-leading Rai Benjamin with a niggle. Brazilian star Alison dos Santos seized the opportunity, delivering a world-leading time of 46.63 to claim victory. Dos Santos put immense pressure on world record holder Karsten Warholm, who stumbled at the final hurdle, allowing the Brazilian to surge ahead. Warholm finished second in 46.70, the same time he clocked when he set the world record in 2021.

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Excited by how well he performed, the Brazilian confidently stated that there is even more to come from him this season.

"It felt good and I loved this track, the people and the energy. It is always good to come here, to come out and be able to win. It was a tough race but I wanted to show I am there, I am ready and in good shape and that I can go even faster," he remarked.

"I was excited about this race and now I am excited about the next one to see how much I can do. The conditions were like a bit wet but it is the same for everyone. I just had to keep the mindset that I wanted to win. And I am proud that I managed to win."

With the likes of Benjamin to join the battle later this summer, Dos Santos said he is anticipating incredible performances in Paris.

"It is going to be amazing in Paris 2024. I am so excited about the things I can do. Everything before Paris is just a preparation for that. So it is going to be like awesome. Only thing I can say is just: Watch!"

In the women's 400m, Marileidy Paulino showcased her class, winning in a season-best 49.30. Paulino led the race from start to finish, pulling away from Poland’s Natalia Kaczmarek, who finished second with a season-best 49.80. The USA’s Alexis Holmes took third place in 50.40. Notably, Sada Williams of Barbados finished fifth in a season-best 50.71.

Paulino was pleased with her performance. "I felt good tonight. I thought the weather conditions would be unpleasant but it turned out nice. I am training hard in order to be able to do these times at the right time. I would like to improve the second part of my race."

Great Britain’s Matthew Hudson-Smith dominated the men's 400m, clocking an impressive 44.07, the second-fastest time in the world this year. Olympic champion Kirani James was a distant second in 44.58, followed closely by Vernon Norwood, who finished third in 44.68.

Shericka Jackson, who had been aiming to improve on her 22.82 performance in Rabat, struggled in the 200m, finishing fifth with a time of 22.97. The race was won by the USA’s Brittany Brown, who edged out Marie-Josée Ta Lou at the line with a time of 22.32. Ta Lou also set a season-best of 22.36, demonstrating her strong form this season. Daryll Neita finished third with her best time this season, clocking 22.50.

Jamaica’s Natoya Goule-Toppin delivered another sub-two-minute performance in the women's 800m, finishing second with her fastest time this season at 1:59.10. South Africa’s Prudence Sekgodiso won the race with a time of 1:58.66, while Catriona Bissett of Australia took third in 1:59.29.

The Bislett Games provided a mix of highs and lows for the athletes, with standout performances in the 400m and 400m hurdles capturing the attention of the nearly full house at Bislett Stadium. As the Diamond League continues, athletes like Clayton and Paulino will look to build on their successes, while Jackson aims to regroup and refocus ahead of the Paris Olympics.

Two-time World 200m champion Shericka Jackson will make her second appearance of the season when she takes part in the 200m at the Oslo Diamond League in Norway on May 30.

Jackson got her season off to a winning start with a 200m victory in Marrakech in 22.82 to maintain a winning streak of 16 finals that dates back to June 2022.

Having won Diamond Trophies in both the 100m and 200m last year, she’ll look to build on that opener in Oslo, where she will face USA’s Jenna Prandini, Anavia Battle and Brittany Brown, plus Marie-Josee Ta Lou-Smith and Daryll Neita, who won the 200m in Suzhou and 100m in Doha.

Dominican Republic’s world champion Marileidy Paulino will race against world bronze medallist Sada Williams and world indoor silver medallist Lieke Klaver in the 400m, while the men’s event features Grenada’s multiple Olympic and world medallist Kirani James, world silver medallist Matthew Hudson-Smith and home favourite Havard Bentdal Ingvaldsen.

Jamaica’s world bronze medallist Rushell Clayton leads the entries for the women’s 400m hurdles.

The men’s event will a treat for the fans as the three-time world champion Karsten Warholm contests the 400m hurdles for the first time since finishing second in the Diamond League final in Eugene in September.

He’s got some fierce competition as he faces Brazil’s Alison dos Santos, the world and Diamond League champion in 2022, who opened his own 400m hurdles season with a 46.86 win in Doha. Looking to challenge them both will be world silver medallist Kyron McMaster.

After setting a world record of 74.35m in Ramona in April, Mykolas Alekna won the discus clash in Marrakech, surpassing 70 metres again with a 70.70m throw to beat Australian record-holder Matthew Denny and Sweden’s Olympic and world champion Daniel Stahl.

That trio clash again in Oslo as part of a stacked field – one which also includes 2022 world gold medallist Kristjan Ceh, Andrius Gudzius, Fedrick Dacres and Lukas Weisshaidinger.

World champions Thea LaFond and Marileidy Paulino were among the winners on day two of the USATF LA Grand Prix at the UCLA Drake Stadium on Saturday.

LaFond produced 14.37m in the fifth round to win ahead of Jamaican two-time World Championship silver medallist Shanieka Ricketts (14.36m) and American Tori Franklin (13.87m).

LaFond made history in March when she became the first Dominican to win gold at a World Athletics Championships. She produced a national record 15.01m to take top spot at the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow, Scotland.

Elsewhere on Saturday, reigning World 400m champion Marileidy Paulino remained unbeaten this season with 50.27 to win ahead of World 800m champion Mary Moraa (50.56) and American Alexis Holmes (50.73).

2011 World champion Kirani James was second in the men's equivalent in a season's best 44.85 behind American 2022 World champion Michael Norman Jr who won in 44.53. Vernon Norwood was third in 44.86.

World Championship finalist and world U-20 record holder Roshawn Clarke opened his season in the 400m hurdles with a respectable 48.11 to finish second behind American Rai Benjamin who ran a world leading 46.64. World Championship silver medallist Kyron McMaster was third in 48.51.

Andrenette Knight ran a season’s best 54.69 for second in the women’s equivalent behind American Anna Cockrell who ran a season’s best of her own with 53.75. Cassandra Tate was third in 55.02.

On Friday's day one, Jamaica's Roje Stona threw 66.93m to win the men's discus ahead of Chile's Claudio Romero (64.12m) and the USA's Brian Williams (63.36m).

As they continue sharpen their skills ahead this summer’s Olympics Games in Paris, France, Grenadian Olympians Kirani James and Lindon Victor are set to compete at separate meets on different continents this weekend.

James, the 2012 Olympic champion and three-time medalist, has been confirmed for the LA Grand Prix on Saturday, May 18, at the Drake Stadium in Los Angeles, California. This will be his second race of the season having opened at the USATF Bermuda Grand Prix on April 28.

Meanwhile, Victor, a decathlete, will take part in the Hypo Meeting at the Mosle Stadium in Gotzis, Austria, from Saturday, May 18 to Sunday, May 19.

The Hypo Meeting is a World-Athletics organized combined events gold level meet that features the world’s top heptathletes and decathletes in two days of grueling competition.

Victor, a two-time Commonwealth Games gold medalist and the holder of several national records for Grenada has his sights set on the 2024 Paris Olympics where he will make his third Olympic appearance for the Spice Island.

Following competition in Austria, Victor will fly home to Grenada where he will contest the long jump and the 100m at the Grenada Invitational on June 6.

The stage is set for a thrilling showcase of athletic prowess as the 2024 Grenada Invitational gears up to welcome a star-studded lineup of track and field talents. Hometown heroes Kirani James and Anderson Peters, alongside the incomparable Elaine Thompson-Herah, lead the pack of 100 athletes confirmed to compete at the prestigious event, slated to take place on Thursday, June 6, at the Kirani James Stadium in Grenada.

The excitement surrounding the meet was palpable as it was officially launched on Thursday at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort in St. George's. The presence of Olympic champions and world-class athletes promises an electrifying atmosphere for spectators and competitors alike.

Joining the illustrious lineup are Commonwealth Games 110m hurdles champion Rasheed Broadbell, set to make his season debut, and Olympic bronze medalist Megan Tapper. Their participation adds further depth and excitement to an already stacked field of competitors that will also include Grenada’s Olympic hopefuls quarter-miler Melenie Rodney, sprinter Halle Hazzard as well as decathletes Linden Victor and Kurt Felix. Both decathletes will participate in the long jump and 100m events.

The meet will also herald the celebration of a significant milestone—the 40th anniversary of Grenada's first participation in the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 1984. To honor this occasion, all 51 athletes who have represented the country at the Olympics over the past four decades will be celebrated and honored at a special ceremony scheduled for 6:00 pm on the day of the event.

The festivities are set to kick off at 4:30 pm with national segments featuring local athletes across various age categories, from U13 to U20. This segment serves as a platform to showcase the budding talent within Grenada's track and field community and underscores the nation's commitment to nurturing the next generation of athletic stars.

As the sun sets and the international segment commences at 7:00 pm, spectators can expect nothing short of top-tier performances from some of the world's most elite athletes. From sprints to hurdles, jumps to throws, the Grenada Invitational promises a spectacle of athletic excellence that will captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression on the global track and field stage.

The meet organizers say the full cast of athletes competing at the meet will be revealed over the next two weeks.

Caribbean athletes showcased their exceptional talents at the USATF Bermuda Grand Prix on Sunday, delivering outstanding performances despite challenging conditions marked by heavy winds.

Perhaps, the most impressive of those performances came in the men’s triple jump where Jaydon Hibbert of Jamaica delivered a remarkable leap of 17.33m, claiming first place using an unconventional eight-step run.

 Jah-Nhai Perinchief from Bermuda secured second place with a jump of 17.13m, and fellow Jamaican Jordan Scott took third place with a jump of 17.05m.

On the track, in the women's 400m, Stacey-Ann Williams of Jamaica surged to victory with a commanding time of 51.71 seconds, outpacing her competitors to claim first place. Behind her, Jessika Gbai from Ivory Coast secured second place in 53.00 seconds, followed closely by Paola Moran of Mexico in third with a time of 53.21 seconds.

The men's 400m event saw Kirani James of Grenada exhibit his prowess with a winning time of 46.00 seconds, leading the charge for Caribbean athletes. Behind him, Alonzo Russell from the Bahamas claimed second place with a time of 47.05 seconds, followed closely by Demish Gaye of Jamaica in third with 47.15 seconds.

Shian Salmon displayed sheer excellence in the 400m hurdles, triumphing with a swift time of 56.59 seconds. Cassandra Tate of the United States secured second place with a time of 57.04 seconds, while Aminat Jamal from Bahrain finished third in 57.94 seconds.

In the men's 200m dash, Jereem Richards of Trinidad and Tobago blazed to victory in 20.39 seconds, showcasing his speed and skill on the track. He was closely followed by Matthew Boling of the USA in second place with a time of 20.42 seconds, while Udodie Onwuzrike from Nigeria secured third place with a time of 20.61 seconds.

In her first 200m run in a year, the USA's Abby Steiner blazed to victory in 22.71. Her countrywoman Kynnedy Flannel took second in 23.01. Ashanti Moore of Jamaica was third in 23.12.

While Caribbean athletes shone brightly, world champion Noah Lyles of the USA stood out in the men's 100m dash, overcoming challenging wind conditions to clock 9.96 seconds and secure first place. Aaron Brown of Canada was the runner-up in 10.09 followed closely by Pjai Austin of the USA who ran 10.10.

Tamari Davis of the USA also impressed in a dominant victory in the women’s 100m. The young American stormed to a time of 11.04. In her wake was compatriot Kortnei Johnson who ran 11.27 just ahead of Jamaica’s Alana Reid (11.29).

Amber Hughes of the USA comfortably win the 100m hurdles in 12.57 with Ebonie Morris of Liberia and Yanique Thompson of Jamaica finishing second and third, in 12.80 and 12.86, respectively.

Monae Nichols of the USA jumped an impressive 6.91m to win the long jump. Jamaica’s Chanice Porter took second place with her effort of 6.62m while Jasmine Moore finished third having jumped 6.60m.