The chances of West Indies bettering England in their three-match Test series were always slim, and Wednesday’s opening day of the first encounter at Lord’s again justified why the host are overwhelmingly favoured.

No doubt the Caribbean side went into the contest confident that they can secure a Test series win in England for the first time since 1988, but their batting display was a far cry from a team hoping to achieve that feat.

They collapsed from 88-3 to 121 all out, as England’s attack, led by debutant Gus Atkinson, was quick, vicious and left West Indies in a tailspin with no response to the onslaught.

Debutant Mikyle Louis (27), Alick Athanaze (23), Kavem Hodge (24), Alzarri Joseph (17), and Gudakesh Motie, with an unbeaten 14, were the only scores in double figures. Atkinson bagged 7-45, the second best by an England bowler on Test debut behind Dominic Cork.

England in response were 189-3 at close, as they opened up a 68-run lead courtesy of half-centuries from Zak Crawley (76) and Ollie Pope (57). Joe Root, on 15, and Harry Brook, on 25, will resume batting on Thursday’s second day.

Scores: West Indies 121 all out (41.4 overs); England 189-3 (40 overs)

Gus Atkinson bask in the admiration of his teammates.

West Indies assistant coach Jimmy Adams narrowed their opening day performance to England’s quality bowling and inexperience batting from his team.

“I think it was fairly bowling friendly conditions, and added to that England exploited the conditions really well. They had quality swing and they didn’t give us much freedom, and maybe a little bit of experience on our part as well. So I think a combination of those issues,” Adams said in a post-day conference.

Despite their current position, Adams remains optimistic his men can get back into the contest, provided they apply themselves accordingly.

“All of England’s bowlers are world class, so we can try (to comeback), but it is going to be difficult. But this is what Test cricket is all about, you have a bad day, you think about it, roll your sleeves up and come back on day two and try and work your way back into the match. We have seven wickets to get first of all and then hopefully we can bat for a day or two and see where we go from there,” he added.

After losing their top order in the opening session with just 44 runs on the board, Hodge and Athanaze attempted to rebuild the West Indies inning from 61-3 at lunch, but having already inflicted the wound, Atkinson duly obliged and finished what he started.

Louis, the first player to represent West Indies from St Kitts and Nevis, showed promise in a 34-run opening stand with captain Kraigg Brathwaite. Both seemed set for a positive knock before Brathwaite (six) dragged a wide delivery from Atkinson onto the stumps, while Jamaican Kirk McKenzie lasted only 14 deliveries, as he too was sent back by Atkinson for a solitary run.

Mikyle Louis receives his cap from West Indies legend Sir Viv Richards.

Louis then followed, as he edged one from England’s captain Ben Stokes, which Harry Brook collected low down at third slip.

When Athanaze edged to Joe Root, it sparked a typical West Indies collapse, as Jason Holder and Joshua da Silva came and went without scoring, while Hodge served up a catch off Chris Woakes to Ollie Pope, who took it in dazzling fashion.

Alzarri Joseph attempted a counter as he slashed four boundaries in a nine-ball cameo, before he became Atkinson’s sixth victim, and Shamar Joseph (zero), the seamer’s seventh. Motie then contributed 14 runs to push the visitors past the 120-run mark, as James Anderson, playing in his final Test series, accounted for Jayden Seales.

England in their turn at bat, lost Ben Duckett (three), who knicked a Jayden Seales delivery to da Silva. However, Crawley, who rode his luck, and Pope quickly steadied things as both scored at a decent tempo, before the latter was trapped in front by Holder.

Crawley’s luck ran out soon after and he was removed by an inswinging yorker from Seales, as West Indies briefly harboured hopes of clawing their way back into the contest, but Root and Brook kept them at bay for the remainder of the day.

Seales has 2-31 so far.

There is no doubt that the journey to athletic excellence is a path often fraught with challenges, but for Bryan Levell, the hurdles he faced in his final year at Edwin Allen High School only served to strengthen his resolve.

Though frustrated that a troublesome hamstring strain kept him off the track for much of that season, Levell used the time to focus on rehabilitation and conditioning, and his patience and perseverance paid off, as he made a remarkable comeback at the JAAA National Senior Championships recently.

Not only did Levell break the 10-second barrier in the men’s 100m when he clocked a new personal best 9.98s in semis, he also went sub-20 seconds over the 200m to claim his first national title in another lifetime best of 19.97s at the National Stadium.

But beyond all that is the fact that the 20-year-old, as a first-year professional, defied the odds and secured a spot on Jamaica’s team for the upcoming Paris Olympic Games.

Levell eases across the line ahead of Andrew Hudson in the men's 200m final.

“It’s a great feeling. Representing Jamaica at the Olympics has always been my dream, and to achieve it in my first year in the professional ranks is beyond words, but I believe it is a testament to my hard work, dedication, and passion to go as far as I can in athletics,” Levell told Sportsmax.TV.

“Last year I was out for a couple of months due to a hamstring injury so I couldn’t get to participate in my final year at Boys’ and Girls’ Champs, which was incredibly frustrating, but thanks to God and my coach Shanikie Osbourne I am now healthy and stronger this year. It wasn’t easy, but we fought through the challenges, put in the work in training and we got it done,” he added.

Despite the physical and emotional toll of persistent injuries, which threatened to derail his transition to the professional level, Levell refused to throw in the proverbial towel.

Instead, the decorated Champs, Carifta, and Under-20 World Championship medalist, worked tirelessly with coach Osbourne to get through what he said is the toughest period of his athletic life to date.

“Honestly, I was demotivated a lot of times, especially when the injuries occurred, but I always kept the bigger picture in mind and encouraged myself that it wasn’t the end and I still had time because I was young. So at times, I was more focused on the comeback as opposed to the situation, and my family and coach were also pillars of strength,” Levell shared.

“I also knew the transition would be tough and would require a lot more work, but I was determined and ready to give it everything, and I was surrounded by a great support system, and that made all the difference,” he noted.

Levell in full flight during the 200m semis.

While looking ahead to the Paris Games, Levell also reflected on the lessons learnt along the way, as he stands ready to embrace the challenges to come with the same level of determination and focus on his goals.

“I would say it was all a big lesson for me to trust the process, be patient and never to give up. So I am working on both my mental and physical preparation for Paris, obviously it will be my first time on the world’s biggest stage and I want to do well…I want to continue improving and make my mark on the sport,” Levell declared.

“So my aim is just to focus on my lane in Paris, execute as best as I can and then take it from there. There’s a lot more I want to achieve so I just want to stay healthy, continue to put in the work and just be the best version of myself,” the soft-spoken athlete ended.

Despite enduring a failed Copa America campaign, England-born winger Demarai Gray believes Jamaica's senior Reggae Boyz displayed some semblance of improvement in the tournament, which has left him excited at the prospects to come in their push for a 2026 FIFA World Cup berth.

Though they lost 0-1 to Mexico, 1-3 to Ecuador, and 0-3 to Venezuela -in what turned out to be Heimir Hallgrimsson's last assignment in charge -Gray pointed to the positives and the lessons learnt, which he is optimistic they will apply under the new Head coach for the remainder of the World Cup qualifying campaign. 

"I think it (Copa America) has shown us that there is more quality out there at international level and no matter the team, there are quality players and quality competition. That goes for us as well. We have quality players; it’s just about putting it together and developing. I’ve said it many times, I think we’re a work in progress. The improvement has been there and I think there’s a lot of improvement to come. Personally, I’m excited," Gray said in a sit down with FIFA.

The Boyz have already registered 1-0 and 3-2 victories over Dominican Republic and Dominica in their two qualifying fixtures to date, with British Virgin Islands and Guatemala next in their line of sight.

However, with the qualifiers on pause until next year, Gray explained that the Concacaf Nations League, which begins in September, and possible friendly encounters will serve in fine tuning their technical and tactical efficiency, as their main target is to secure one of three automatic berths to the global showpiece.

"There’s no better start than two wins and I feel like we just have to continue that in the rest of qualifying. The World Cup is something that we’re eager to reach, so it’s a great start and now we just have to maintain that level of performance," Gray said.

"There are a lot of different games that we have to play, Nations League, friendlies. The World Cup qualifying games are obviously very exciting because we want to get over the line as quickly as possible. But when you play for Jamaica, the fixture or whatever competition you’re playing in, it’s just exciting to be part of the team. At the end of the day, the goal is to win every game we play, so we’ll just take that mentality into each game. When the World Cup qualifiers come around, it will be very exciting for us," he added.

Gray, who joined Jamaica's set up in 2023, has no doubt that the current crop of Reggae Boyz possess enough quality to replicate the country's 1998 qualifying feat.

In fact, the 28-year-old was quick to point out that the Theodore Whitmore-led team that graced the global stage in France back then, has fuelled their aspirations to rise to the occasion.

"It (France 1998 team) is a special team. Sometimes in meetings we’ll watch clips and stuff of that team and now we’re trying to re-create those memories. As I’ve said, it's exciting to be part of that process, and I’m confident that we will be there with the players that we have here now," Gray said with an air of confidence.

"It is a dream for me. To participate in a World Cup, a competition you watch as a kid, I just think that for the boys and the nation it would be massive. I think we deserve it and we are going to work our hardest to get there," he declared.

With five goals and four assists in 14 games so far, Gray, who possesses speed and flair has become an indispensable asset in the Reggae Boyz team along with other heritage players, Michail Antonio, and Bobby Reid, just to name a few.

While speculations are rife that Arsenal winger Reiss Nelson could soon add to the country's bevy of dynamic attacking players, the reality remains that games are played on the pitch and not on paper, something Gray is well aware of.

"There’s always talk of guys potentially joining Jamaica, but what we have in this group is good, too. We have good togetherness here within the group, so whatever players we choose or call up is down to the federation. But what we’ve got in the squad now, I’m happy with it and it’s a great environment to come to work in," Gray noted, as he urged fans and neutrals alike to stick with the team. 

"We just ask for their full support, as they’ve always given the team, given to myself. I’m grateful for it. We just ask that they stay behind us and there are a lot of exciting times ahead," he ended.

Reggae Girl and Real Betis striker Tiffany Cameron is known for facing daunting challenges on the football field. However, it is off the field that the Canada-born player recently faced a challenge of a different kind – a cyberattack that compromised her Instagram account.

Now, Cameron is turning her ordeal into a mission to raise awareness about the dangers of cyberattacks and the importance of online security.

Cameron, discovered her Instagram account had been hacked when she began receiving messages from friends and followers about suspicious activity, as the culprits posted fraudulent content in an attempt to scam her followers.

As such, she quickly took steps to regain control of her account, but the experience left her shaken and determined to prevent others from falling victim to similar attacks.

Cameron in action with Liga F outfit Real Betis.

“My Instagram is not just a social media account; it's a platform where I connect with fans, share my journey, and inspire others. To see it used for malicious purposes was devastating,” Cameron said.

“This experience has been inconvenient because Instagram and Meta haven’t done anything yet to investigate. Some of my followers who know me well, realized my Instagram page got hacked, so they have been reporting it. However, a lot of my followers are fans who don’t have a personal relationship with me so they could easily get fooled if they see that a public figure like me ‘messaging them,’ and posting about trading and making money,” she told SportsMax.TV. 

As the hackers used Cameron’s account to send direct messages to her followers, promising monetary rewards, while also requesting personal information or financial contributions, the experience is a stark reminder of the vulnerability that comes with a digital presence.

With the increasing reliance on social media for personal and professional engagement, Cameron believes securing these platforms has never been more crucial, as cyberattacks can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and a breach of personal privacy.

“I want to create awareness and protect all of my followers on my previous page from potentially getting scammed. I was told that the hacker was posting on my Instagram profile and story about trading and the money they gained from it, direct messaging my followers to try and persuade them to join their trade, asking my followers for their WhatsApp numbers, and using my likeness for their personal gain,” Cameron shared.

Cameron in action at last year's FIFA Women's World Cup against Brazil.

She continued: “Stealing a person’s identity and also using it for financial gain is a crime. It’s not something anyone should take lightly. I am a public figure and I have accomplished a lot of things to be proud of throughout my career. I don’t want people to be misled by those hackers thinking that they are talking to me.

“That page I worked so hard to build up was hacked on June 17th, 2024 so if anyone has messaged that account since then, they could have potentially been scammed. If anyone has given out any financial information or personal contact information, they need to change their passwords and also go to the police to report what happened.” 

To help raise awareness, Cameron posted a video on her new Instagram account, where she explained the situation and discussed topics such as creating strong passwords, recognizing phishing attempts.

Cameron’s message is clear that vigilance, education, and community support are essential in combating cyber threats, as she not only wants to protect her followers, but also contribute to a safer online environment for all.

“I believe in strength in numbers. If more people are aware of this cyberattack, the more people can report the page and eventually it will get shut down. It’s unfortunate because all of my memories are on that page, but the beautiful thing is that everyone knows what I’ve been able to accomplish so starting fresh on my new page could also be a good thing,” Cameron noted. 

“Education is also key, so I’ve uploaded a video on my new page @tiffanydcameron_ informing the public what happened. It’s important that they report, block and unfollow my former page tiffany_cameron11. The person who hacked me needs to be stopped. What they are doing is illegal, unacceptable and a scam,” she ended.

The rhythmic hum of wheels on the track, the exhilarating speed, and the fierce competition are nothing new to Nicholas Paul. Yet, as the Trinidad and Tobago cyclist prepares for a second-consecutive Olympic Games appearance, his excitement and determination are as fresh as ever.

At 25, Paul has already cemented his place as one of Trinidad and Tobago's premier athletes, as his dazzling career –filled with challenges, triumphs, and an unwavering commitment to excellence –has been nothing short of remarkable.

In fact, it is Paul’s relentless drive and unwavering passion that has brought him to this point where he not just races for medals, but more importantly, races to inspire a nation and leave a lasting legacy in the world of cycling.

“To compete at the Olympics Games is the pinnacle of every sport and one of an athlete’s greatest dreams. So it is really an incredible honour for me to qualify to represent my country Trinidad and Tobago on the world stage once again. It's definitely a proud moment and a great milestone in my cycling career that I am looking forward to,” Paul told SportsMax.TV.

“I firstly, always give thanks to God for the talents that he has given me, as well as my family, coaches, support staff, teammates and all my supporters for their support along my journey. It is the hard work, discipline and dedication combined with the assistance my support team that has attributed to my successes over the years and even now as I prepare to head to the Olympics,” he added.

A series of unstoppable performances on the International Cycling Union (UCI) circuits in Canada and Germany, followed by a classy display at the PanAm Elite Track Cycling Championships in Argentina, Paul's journey to the top has been marked by numerous milestones.

He also won three medals –gold, silver and bronze –at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, with another double medal-winning performance –gold and silver –coming at last year’s Pan American (PanAm) Games in Chile.

For many, that would more than represent a successful cycling career, but for Paul, this is only the beginning. 

Despite the many successes which showcased his exceptional, Paul still views his career as a work in progress, possibly because he is still hunting that one prize or moment to really define things and that is the Olympic Games medal.

During his debut performance at the 2020 Tokyo Games, Paul demonstrated his mettle by making the quarterfinals in the men’s sprint event, and while he missed out on a medal, his performance was a testament to his skill, speed, and resilience.

Having taken those lessons to heart, Paul is now hoping to write the wrongs when he again graces the global multi-sport stage in Paris this summer.

"The experience in Tokyo was invaluable. Competing against the best in the world always taught me so much about myself and so I’ve worked tirelessly to improve every aspect of my training and preparation,” Paul shared.

“Whenever I compete and represent my country Trinidad and Tobago, I always want to win and put my best foot forward.  My mindset for this Olympic Games is the same as well, but it is all about targeting one race at a time,” he added.

That said, the modest twin island republic cyclist pointed that his charge towards Olympic success will be a blend of physical conditioning, technical refinement, and mental fortitude.

“The Olympic Games is the biggest goal scheduled on my calendar and so I have been working very hard on and off the bike preparing myself mentally and physically for the challenge at hand. My training has been going well and I'm looking forward to participating at the Games in the best form possible,” Paul declared.

"The key is to stay disciplined and keep pushing forward, no matter what obstacles come your way. Every race, every training session, is a step towards achieving my dreams, and like I said earlier, I’m grateful for the support of my coaches, my family, and my country – they motivate me to give my best every single day,” he noted.

Looking ahead, Paul is determined to build on his past experiences and deliver a performance that will make his country proud. With eyes set on the podium, Paul embodies the spirit of perseverance and excellence that defines Trinidad and Tobago’s sporting legacy.

“It’s just another set of races for me, I know I have been putting in the work, so I just have to believe in myself and execute to the best of my ability,” he said with an air of confidence.

“My overall ambition is to continue putting Trinidad and Tobago on the map in search of that historic Olympic medal in the sport of cycling, as the aim is to let the entire world know that we are a small island but we have a lot of talent,” Paul ended.

For some, the Jamaica-China Sports Technical Exchange Programme is merely just a training trip, but to Lloye Guwalani, the programme represents a promise, illuminating the path to a brighter and more competitive future for Jamaican swimming.

Guwalani, who will serve as team manager to an 18-member delegation currently en route to China, pointed out that the journey marks a significant milestone for Jamaica in particular, as she highlighted the importance of the initiative, which was designed to enhance the development of Jamaica's swimming talent through international exposure and training.

The project started in 2018, was due for completion in 2020, but was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, the final leg of the three-year initiative is now on course to be completed.

“I am extremely pleased that the programme is now back in full effect after the COVID pandemic. It provides our athletes with invaluable opportunities to train in world-class facilities, learn from top-tier coaches, and experience a different competitive environment. These are experiences that will undoubtedly elevate their performances at the local and international level, and also broaden their perspectives,” Guwalani told SportsMax.TV prior to departure.

Established as part of a broader cultural and sporting partnership between the two nations, the Jamaica-China Sports Technical Exchange Programme aims to foster mutual growth and development. For Jamaica, this means leveraging China's advanced training methodologies and infrastructure to benefit its athletes.

In fact, the swim delegation's visit, scheduled to last two months, includes rigorous training sessions, friendly competitions, and cultural exchanges that are set to enrich the athletes' experiences both in and out of the pool.

Members of the swim delegation pay a courtesy call on Minister of Sports Olivia Grange prior to departure.

Guwalani expressed delight to share in the initiative as a part of the programme also involves coaching experience and assists with enhances coaching abilities.

“I am also grateful that I was selected by the ASAJ, especially being a swim parent from Western Jamaica, team manager of the Sailfish Swim Academic, and having five out of the fifteen swimmers, who are from the West as participants in this programme. It is a phenomenal opportunity, especially given the absence of a 50-metre training facility to serve the growing demand of competitive swimming in the West,” Guwalani shared.

That said, she emphasized that the benefits of the exchange programme extend beyond the immediate training and competition opportunities.

“This is about building a foundation for the future of Jamaican swimming. Our athletes are ambassadors for the sport, and the experiences they bring back will inspire and motivate younger swimmers. It's about creating a legacy of excellence and fostering a culture of continuous improvement,” Guwalani said.

“In the end, I am hoping that our swimmers will make the best use of this opportunity. Set their goals and make the very best effort to achieve them. Our two coaches that are also a part of this delegation, Coach Zachary Johnson and Coach Omarie Sawyers seeking to gain the additional technical knowledge that can be garnered from this experience, and further take that to Jamaica and relay to our other coaches. So there is certainly a lot to be gained from this programme by all,” she reasoned.

Meanwhile, among the 15 swimmers is Zaneta Alvaranga, who was a prominent figure for Jamaica at regional and international swimming events, prior to taking a break from national representation for personal reasons. Alvaranga and her Kaizen Swim Club mate Devaughn Robe, are the only two returning swimmers from the initial batch of 15.

Zaneta Alvaranga (right) and members of the swim delegation share a photo opportunity during a stopover in Panama.

“I’m feeling good about going to China for a second year. The first time I went, I returned fitter and more competitive and I am hoping it will be a similar experience this time around. This programme is crucial for our development, as training in China allows us to push our limits, as well as improve on and learn new techniques, so I am excited to see what this trip holds,” Alvaranga stated.

By all indications, Alvaranga, known for her exceptional performances in the butterfly and freestyle events, is using this outing as a stepping stone to rekindle her passion for national representation.

"Every experience like this brings us one step closer to our dreams. The knowledge and skills we gain will not only benefit us individually, but also help to raise the overall standard of swimming in Jamaica. So, I am definitely hoping that it will get me back to a state of competitiveness for future competitions, including national competitions,” she declared.

"China has a rich history of excellence in swimming, and we are thrilled to learn from them. I think I can speak for the others in saying that we are ready to absorb everything we can, work hard, and bring our best back to Jamaica. And as I said, it is for me to get back into the groove of things,” Alvaranga ended.

The programme also involves women's football, basketball, badminton, and volleyball, among others.

Despite not being at peak fitness, Janieve Russell was determined to secure a place on Jamaica’s team to the upcoming Paris Olympic Games, and so the 400m hurdler knew she had to demonstrate resilience and tenacity to achieve the feat.

In fact, Russell’s second-place performance at the JAAA National Senior Championships this past weekend was a testament to her unyielding spirit, as she soared above her injury concerns with precision and speed, crossing the finish line in 53.33s –a time that marked her fastest ever run at the National Stadium. Rushell Clayton won in a brisk 52.51s, with Shiann Salmon (53.71s) in third.

Having had her season fraught with challenges and injuries, raising doubts about her ability to compete at her usual high standards, Russell believes her performance dispelled any doubts about her readiness to compete on the world stage.

“I am a very strong-willed person, so I came in determined to punch my ticket to Paris and I did that so I am really grateful. I have a good support team in terms of family and friends and of course, I have to give God thanks because my faith has been carrying me through,” a jubilant Russell said after catching her breath.

“This is also a confidence booster for me because it is the fastest I’ve ever ran in Jamaica and the other competitors can say the same. So this was the first phase, make the team to Paris, now, it's all about staying healthy and continuing to train hard so I can be healthy enough to challenge for a medal at the Olympics,” she added.

With a focused mindset and an unwavering determination, Russell, a multiple Commonwealth Games gold medallist and World Championships relay silver medallist, has shown that once healthy, she is a force to be reckoned with.

The 30-year-old's performance is particularly inspiring given the high level of competition she faced at the National Championships, and her ability to push through physical pain and still deliver a top-notch performance is a testament to her mental strength and athletic prowess.

“It feels really great to know that I am now on my way to Paris, I'm already considering myself a three-time Olympian, which is really a wonderful feeling. So, I just have to give God thanks because trust me, my journey has been a rocky one, I am not 100% in terms of fitness, so I basically came out here with guts and faith to achieve this objective,” Russell, who was a part of the bronze medal-winning 4x400m relay team at the 2020 Tokyo Games, declared.

“So it is very satisfying because the injury that I have is a really serious that I competed with. I have a crack bone in my heel, so to come out here and to run against a fine field of ladies, I'm really, really happy because I was lined up with medalists at World Championship, medalists at Commonwealth, NACAC, finalists at World Championships, so again, it's really good feeling knowing I’m on my way to another Olympic Games,” she noted.

As she looks ahead to the Paris Olympics, where she is expected to also face the likes of Dutchwoman Femke Bol and American World record holder Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, Russell is more motivated than ever. Her recent performance has reinforced her belief in her capabilities and her potential to possibly stand on the Olympic podium.

“The goal and expectation is just to remain healthy and as long as I am healthy and fit then I know I can vie for a medal for Jamaica in Paris. This performance has shown me that I'm on the right track, and I just need to keep pushing forward,” Russell ended.

With no shot at progressing beyond the group stages, Jamaica’ senior Reggae Boyz will at least be hoping to salvage some pride from their final Group B contest to possibly end another failed Copa America campaign on a high in Austin, Texas.

Kickoff is 7:00pm Jamaica time.

The Boyz, who lost 0-1 to Mexico and 1-3 to Ecuador, will now have group leaders Venezuela to contend with, which means their task of securing an historic point or win at the prestigious CONMEBOL tournament that much more difficult.

However, the feat is by no means beyond the Jamaicans, and with Michail Antonio already accounting for their maiden goal at the tournament, it should lift their confidence significantly.

In fact, if the head-to-head statistics is anything to go by, then it puts the Boyz in good stead, as Jamaica has won two of six meetings with their South American counterpart, with one ending in a stalemate. This will be their second meeting in the Copa America, with the first being in the Centenario 2016 (USA), where Venezuela registered a 1-0 win.

Knowing very well that his team can compete at this level, Head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson pointed out that the aim is for nothing less than a win. But, to achieve the feat, they will require a more compact display in the midfield, fluent passing, and certainly more creativity in the attacking third.

“We are going for for the win in this game,” Hallgrimsson declared in a pre-game press conference.

“Of course, we hoped and wished that we were in a different position than where we are, but it is what it is. There is good morale and the players are happy and together, and I give them a lot of credit for the atmosphere still in the camp. So we go into this match wanting to win for a lot of reasons that are important for us to get a win,” he added.

The Boyz are rooted at the foot of the standing without a point, with Venezuela on maximum six points from two games, while Ecuador and Mexico, on three points each, will do battle for the second spot to the quarter-finals.

Despite Venezuela’s current vein of form, Hallgrimsson believes they are by no means infallible.

“Well, they are the surprise package of the tournament, I would say. We have analysed them before and we knew they are a hard-working, honest team with great individuals. But, how they have performed, especially with the confidence they have displayed now, is impressive to see,” he said of the opponents.

“For the players, it is just margins that we can control that made it that we don’t have a point today. We go into this match knowing that we can get a win for sure, but there is balance,” he noted.

Still, the Icelandic coach pointed out that regardless of the outcome, the Boyz have shown glimpses of their potential to prove formidable at the highest level. This he believes is a significant positive, especially as they target a successful World Cup qualifying campaign.

“No matter what the result will be, I think this is a really important tournament for Jamaica in working towards qualifying for the World Cup 2026, and probably the closest thing to the World Cup that we can participate in,” the tactician reasoned.

“There has been a lot of questions about whether we are good enough to qualify for the World Cup. With how we’ve played Mexico and how we’ve played Ecuador, who played in Qatar World Cup, we’ve matched them in some areas. So, if anyone were to doubt if Jamaica can qualify for the World Cup 2026, I hope that some doubts are gone,” Hallgrimsson stated.

Malik James-King's journey to becoming Jamaica's 400m hurdles national champion is a story of grit, determination, and unwavering resolve.

Battling through personal and professional challenges, James-King's triumph at the JAAA National Senior Championships –on his birthday nonetheless –not only secured him a first national title, but also earned him a coveted spot on Jamaica's team to this summer's Paris Olympic Games.

James-King produced a stunning performance to upset the more fancied World Championships finalist Roshawn Clarke and in the process, became the second fastest Jamaican in history with a breathtaking personal best 47.42 seconds. 

The fact that his previous personal best was 48.39s tells the remarkable story of James-King's progress, as he demonstrates that perseverance can overcome even the most daunting obstacles. He is now ranked only behind Roshawn Clarke’s national record 47.34 seconds set at the World Athletics Championships last year.

"It’s been a tough road, there were moments when I thought I wouldn’t make it this far, but I always believed in myself and the process," James-King told SportsMax.TV.

"Once you tell yourself you can do something, then it is very much possible because I honestly came out knowing I was going to run 47. I just wasn't sure if it would be 47 low or high, so I am just going to go back to the drawing board and get my mind more focused because I think I can run faster," he added.

The atmosphere at the National Stadium was electric on Friday as fans eagerly anticipated the men's and women's 100 finals, but James-King celebrating his 25th birthday, had a lot to prove and he delivered in fine style to whet the spectators appetites ahead of the main events.

Though left a bit back in the opening phase of the race, the diminutive athlete surged ahead in the closing stages, each hurdle he cleared was not just a step towards the finish line, but a symbolic overcoming of the hurdles he had faced in life. When he crossed the finish line, the crowd erupted in cheers, recognizing the monumental achievement of a new national champion.

James-King bettered Clarke (48.04s), who was overwhelmingly favoured to defend his national title, and Commonwealth Games silver medallist Jaheel Hyde (48.35s).

"I didn't panic and I wasn't concerned either (when Clarke and Hyde went out fast). I was actually focusing on clearing each hurdle, so I was just focusing on my lane and my execution and not any of my competitors," James-King declared.

"I know the closing stages of the race is when I am strongest, so I just used that to my advantage and came home strong. I really need to work on the first 200m of my race though, it is a little bit too slow and the other guys are really fast in that period. So I'll be working on that going forward," he noted.

James-King credits much of his National Championships success to the invaluable lessons learned during his maiden Diamond League outing. Competing against some of the best athletes in the world, he gained insights that transformed his approach to the sport. He placed fifth in 49.51s at the Prefontaine Classic in Eugene, Oregon. 

Prior to that, he clocked 48.39s to win at the Jamaica Athletics Invitational, and 49.09s at the Loas Angeles Grand Prix.

"The Diamond League was a game-changer for me. Competing at that level showed me what it takes to be among the best. The experience taught me about strategy, mental toughness, and the importance of consistency," James-King shared.

The former Calabar stalwart noted that observing and racing against seasoned athletes provided him with a deeper understanding of the nuances of the 400m hurdles. The exposure to different techniques and race strategies, he said was a eye-opener to refine his own approach, leading to improved performance.

"It was kind of scary because it was the first time coming out of my comfort zone, learning that these guys, they don't respect anyone and they're not afraid to run. So the first time running the Diamond League, I was like, they're way faster than me, they're way stronger than me, and they're more focused. 

"When I observe how they warm up, how they do everything, I was like, oh, damn, I'm not doing anything (to be at the level that they are). So I literally came back, talked to my management and support team and they were like, alright, so you know what you need to do. So there was a lot of buckling down, and a lot of focus, and I just came in here and just did what my coach said I could do," James-King revealed.

With a national title now to his credit, the Titans Track Club representative has already shifted focus to the Paris Olympic Games. Securing a spot on Jamaica's Olympic team is a dream come true for the young hurdler, but he is far from complacent.

"Winning the national title is just the beginning. I'm a lot more focused now and this (win) is a big motivation going forward. As I said, I'm not sure what the future holds, but I'm working to go to the finals at the Olympics. My preparation will be a lot more intense, a lot more watching videos of my performances to see where I can improve, and just going back to the joint board to work on strengthening the weak areas of my race," James-King ended.

Aquatics Sports Association of Jamaica (ASAJ) president Lance Rochester says the achievements of Yona Knight-Wisdom, Sabrina Lyn and Josh Kirlew in making the cut for this summer’s Paris Olympic Games are not just personal victories, but are pivotal in adding to a legacy for Jamaican aquatics sports.

Rochester’s sentiments came as he highlighted the importance of continued investment in training and youth development programmes, in particular, to sustain and grow all eight disciplines –swimming, open water swimming, master’s swimming, artistic swimming, diving, high diving, water polo, and beach water polo –across the aquatics umbrella.

British-born Knight-Wisdom, 29, the country’s diving flagbearer, continues to inspire with his dedication and remarkable skill, as he secured qualification to a third-straight Olympic Games, following appearances at the 2016 and 2020 Games.

Sabrina Lyn

For 18-year-old Lyn and British-born Kirlew, 24, it will be their first outing at the global multi-sport showpiece, as they were selected as the country’s highest ranked athletes to fill the two universality spots allotted to the ASAJ.

“Visibility is critical in sports and those who compete at the highest level help to inspire the next generation. Ultimately, the ASAJ wants to bring all of the eight disciplines which are currently under the umbrella to the top of the world stage and we are working assiduously towards laying the foundation to achieve that goal over time,” Rochester told SportsMax.TV.

“With regard to diving, the ASAJ is looking forward to the development of this discipline and the support which Yona continues to provide. After Paris, Yona will be in Jamaica hosting another installment of his diving camp, which aims to develop a generation of local divers. So we are committed to nurturing and developing talent so that Jamaica continues to shine in aquatics sports,” he added.

Josh Kirlew

While there were concerns that the retirement of the decorated Alia Atkinson, Keanan Dols, Kelsie Campbell and others, would take away from Jamaica having at least one prominent figure on the world stage, Rochester could not be more thrilled about Knight-Wisdom, Lyn and Kirlew’s upcoming Olympic Games participation.

In fact, the president viewed the trio’s efforts in maintaining a competitive presence as invaluable for Jamaica's growing reputation in aquatics sports.

“It's always important to have representation at top tier events, especially the Olympic Games. Our selectees, Sabrina and Josh, went through a rigorous and stressful selection process where they came out ranked at the top. The ASAJ is proud of their efforts and those who were in contention. Yona making a third straight Olympic Games is a remarkable feat and one we are also very proud as he continues to keep Jamaica on the map where diving is concerned,” Rochester said.

“I must also emphasize that, while Alia is no longer in the water representing Jamaica, she provides invaluable support to the development of our aquatics programmes behind the scenes,” he revealed.

Yona Knight-Wisdom

“This year alone, Jamaica had strong performances at key regional events such as the Carifta Games and CCCAN. We had a strong medal haul and some standout performances, so we have to ensure that we provide all of our athletes with first rate support to ensure that they transition to the elite level,” the president noted.

Finally, Rochester pointed out that the upcoming participation of the country’s aquatic athletes has already fostered a sense of pride and optimism. As such, he encouraged the trio to continue striving for excellence as their respective journey to the Olympic Games is a story of hope and inspiration for all Jamaicans.

“For an event like the Olympic Games, the ASAJ is grateful to the Jamaica Olympic Association and Government of Jamaica for the financial, logistic and technical support for our athletes. So, we just want our athletes to prepare well, trust their coaches, do their best and continue to represent Jamaica proudly and inspire others,” Rochester ended.

Jamaica’s Head Coach Heimir Hallgrimsson was left with a mixed bag of emotions after his Reggae Boyz suffered a tough 1-3 loss to Ecuador in a hard-fought Copa America encounter in Las Vegas, on Wednesday.

While he lauded his players’ efforts and resilience on the pitch at the Allegiant Stadium, Hallgrimsson did not shy away from expressing his disappointment with the officiating that he believes marred the match, and ultimately eliminated his team from the tournament.

An historic first Copa America goal scored by Michail Antonio in the 54th minute, highlighted Jamaica’s stout-hearted performance, which Hallgrimsson believes could have brought about a more positive result if a potential penalty was awarded to his team by Chilean Referee Cristian Reyes.

Antonio’s strike, his fourth since joining the Jamaican setup, was also the country’s first across its three appearances in the prestigious CONMEBOL tournament. They also graced the tournament in 2015 and 2016.

Ecuador’s goals were courtesy of Kasey Palmer’s 14th-minute own-goal, with Kendry Paez’s 45+4-minute penalty and Alan Minda (90+2) being the others.

“First half was difficult for us Ecuador came out strong which we knew they would so we give them credit for that. We then tweaked or tactics and we started going at them with a high pressing line in the second half because we had nothing to lose at two-nil down. We scored one goal early which was important we should have had a penalty.

“If the first one was a penalty the second one should have been a penalty as well because they were identical incidents, but one was given in favour of Ecuador and we didn’t get ours. So give credit to my players for never giving up until the end, we took risk and Ecuador did well in one counter attack and scored the third goal,” a disappointed Hallgrimsson said in a post-match conference.

“I think it was just more positivity, more power, more on the front foot. We had nothing to lose [being] two under so we decided to go all in. I must give my players credit for everything they gave for the second half; they left everything on the pitch [but], sadly, results didn’t go in our favour. There’s a lot of things that didn’t go to us in this game. We deserved to have more — especially after the second-half performance,” he added.

Hallgrimsson stressed the contentious decision by the referee, as he recounted the incident, emphasizing the need for fair play and consistency in officiating.

The incident in question happened in 70th minute when Michael Hector toed the ball onto the outstretched hand of Steven Franco, but referee Reyes saw no issue with the infringement, even after a lengthy VAR check.  This served as a slap in the face of the Boyz, who were on the other end of a similar incident in the first half when a ball clipped Greg Leigh’s elbow and a penalty awarded to Ecuador.

“I thought we should have had a penalty, like Ecuador had a penalty. I don’t see a difference between the two instances so I don’t know why the referee, after looking at it, decided not to give us a penalty but decided to give them a penalty,” Hallgrimsson argued

“I cannot, for the love of God, I don’t want to say much but I don’t understand the difference between those two. I haven’t got the reason. I’ve seen the replay and, for the love of God, I don’t know why this wasn’t a penalty if the other one was a penalty. I can’t answer for [the referee]. I wish they could sit here and answer that question for me,” he reasoned.

Despite the officiating controversies, Hallgrimsson took some of his players to task, even as he remained focused on the positives.

The Jamaicans, who are rooted at the bottom of group B with no point, will close another failed Copa America campaign against Venezuela, in Austin, Texas, on Sunday.

“Too many players had an off day for us in the first half and when you play these kind of tournaments you cannot have that, but we just didn’t have a response to the pressure that Ecuador applied early. But I don’t think the game was a 3-1 scoreline, we played better than that so it is kind of embarrassing to go with that scoreline,” he ended.

The Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) and Supreme Ventures Limited have rekindled their partnership with fresh five-year agreement, which both views as a cornerstone of their collective efforts to promote and develop the sport.

JAAA’s president Garth Gayle said the agreement valued at $25 million will go a far way in assisting his administration to offset expenses for the National Championships, which gets underway on Thursday, among other things, as they strive to ensure the best output for those under their charge.

Supreme Ventures began sponsoring the annual national track and field championships in 2004, and only took a break once in 2017, before returning a year later with a $10 million deal, and has never left since then.

“Supreme Ventures has laid the foundation for a fruitful and continuous relationship. We are very proud of what took place in the past and what will take place going forward. We are very grateful for their gesture and commitment of five years. As the governing body for athletics we cannot do it alone and while we operate within the guidelines and construct of rules and guidelines, at times we had to make adjustments but in consultation with our stakeholders,” Gayle said during a press conference at the JAAA’s offices on Wednesday.

“So this will go a very far way because I don't think the public understands how costly it is to put on a track and field, and an event such as our National Championships. It is a considerable amount of money and so the contribution by Supreme Ventures will go a far way in assisting us to make the event successful. 

“What you are witnessing is the continued cooperation between the JAAA and an excellent philanthropic company Supreme Ventures. We want to work for the betterment of track and field in Jamaica. The JAAA is a caring organisation, and so we work with our partners to achieve the best for all concerned,” he added.

Kamal Powell, head of marketing at SVL explained that the betting company’s longstanding support for sports in Jamaica, particularly track and field, facilitates the consistency required, offering the resources needed to excel on the global stage. 

“We understand that the journey of an athlete is one of dedication, perseverance and the relentless pursuit of excellence. From grassroots initiatives to supporting major national teams, our commitment to Jamaican sports has been unwavering. We have seen firsthand the incredible talent and potential of our athletes and we are dedicated to providing them with the resources and support they need to excel on the global stage,” Powell said.

“Our contribution is not just an investment in sports, it's an investment in the country and the country's future. By supporting our athletes, we're fostering the culture of excellence, discipline and perseverance. We believe that this commitment will help our athletes to achieve their dreams and allow them to continue to bring glory to the Jamaica and the world stage,” he added.

Jamaica Athletics Administration Association (JAAA) president Garth Gayle has again waved the proverbial white flag as he made an impassioned plea for dialogue with the Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA) to amicably resolve their differences ahead of this summer’s Paris Olympic Games.

While it seems some tension was brewing between to two sporting bodies, things came to a head on Monday, when veteran track and field coach Glen Mills lashed JOA for its decision to limit JAAA to 14 team officials, as opposed to the 17 that was requested.

Mills didn’t hold any punches, as he tore into the JOA about the allotment which he cited as woefully inadequate given that the country is expected to field at least 60 track and field athletes at the global multi-sport showpiece.

“I have been to nine Olympics. It is a disgrace that you have to be fighting to get the required number of coaches, the required number of therapists and doctors to go with an Olympic team that is probably rated number two or three in the world,” Mills said.

“I find it very unfortunate that track and field, and what it represents in the Olympic movement, not just in Jamaica but worldwide, along with Jamaica’s history (has come to this). We are not beggars, we have earned it,” he added.

JOA president Christopher Samuda.

The JOA has since responded and labeled Mills’ remarks as "unfortunate and ill-conceived.”

According to the JOA, it does not determine the number of officials for each sport. Instead, the Paris Organizing Committee of the Games uses a globally recognized team size formula based on the estimated number of athletes who qualify.

The Christopher Samuda-led JOA revealed that both the JAAA and Mills were aware of this process.

Still, Gayle, while maintaining that the JAAA’s request for 17 team officials is reasonable, appealed for good sense to prevail between both parties, as his administration is open and willing to sit down and iron out the issues.

“Each Olympic there is what is referred to as a technical manual, we are yet to receive a technical manual from the Jamaica Olympic Association. In the past we would have already received it as that is one of the things by which we could clearly state what is the expectation. In that document would also be team calculated…we would have asked for that, but based on our investigation and how we would have conducted our business over the years, we know that what we have asked for is more than reasonable,” Gayle said during a press conference to renew a partnership with Supreme Ventures at JAAA’s offices on Wednesday.

He continued: “As we cement our partnership with Supreme Ventures, we want to return to those days when we sit and work amicably with the Jamaica Olympic Association. I think we need to stop sending letters, but rather sit down and discuss (things), because they as the governing body for the Olympics have all this information. So rather than us being at loggerhead, let us sit down and reason and carefully calculate the thing because we are sure that our numbers for the Olympics will be a large number, it always has been and we don't see it changing.

Glen Mills blasted the JOA for restricting the JAAA's numbers.

“So all we are asking for is dialogue. Let today mark my appeal for members of the JOA to meet with us to discuss this matter amicably. We have a team size that is more than reasonable and we believe that we are in the right to ask for our officials to properly take care of our athletes in Paris that is all we are asking for.”

Another bitter issue between the two associations surrounds a pre-Olympic Camp scheduled to be hosted in Stuttgart, Germany.  This has the JOA chided the JAAA for negotiating the camp without its prior knowledge or approval.

However, Gayle pointed out that the decision to make their own arrangements was made after numerous failed attempts to secure the camp through the JOA.

“We have reached out on several occasions to the Jamaica Olympic Association seeking dialogue, so it would be remiss of us to know that other countries are putting together training camps and we the governing athletics body have not done so,” Gayle explained.

“And so it is in keeping with a tradition that we have sought a meeting, more than once, we did not get that. So we could not have sat back and not do anything, we would have been derelict in our duties, so we naturally moved on and sought appropriate accommodation for training of our athletes following the National Championships,” he added.

As Jamaica’s senior Reggae Boyz eye their pivotal Copa America clash against Ecuador, Head Coach Heimir Hallgrimsson has expressed a blend of cautious optimism and strategic focus, as they chase history in the Group B fixture at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, on Wednesday.

The 53rd-ranked Jamaicans are hunting their first goal, first point and, by extension, first victory in three appearances at the prestigious CONMEBOL tournament, a feat they will be hoping to achieve against the 30-ranked Ecuadorians to bounce back from a 0-1 defeat to Mexico in their opening fixture.

Kickoff is 5:00pm Jamaica time.

A victory would keep Hallgrimsson’s side in the hunt for one of the top two spots to the knockout stage. However, that is easier said than done, and despite their gallant effort against Mexico in Saturday’s defeat, Ecuador represents a different challenge, one which Hallgrimsson knows they can by no means scoff at even though their opponents also suffered a 1-2 loss to Venezuela in their opening encounter.

“It's going to be a tough match. Really a tough match,” Hallgrimsson stressed.

“They (Ecuador) came into this group for the media as favorites and have done brilliant in terms of their results prior to the tournament. A tough team to beat is a tough team to play against, and like I said, they have managed to get good results against the biggest teams in South America, and it's always low scoring matches. They conceded two goals, against Venezuela, but this was after they had been playing one man down for close to 50 minutes,” he noted.

“So the reason why Venezuela scored two goals was probably down to fatigue, and we need to be aware of that. We cannot go all in and concede a goal because it's difficult to get back against a team like Ecuador and Venezuela. So we need to be careful, but we need to be brave as well at the same time. It needs to be a calculated risk that we take,” the Icelandic coach added.

Though Jamaica and Ecuador have crossed swords in international friendlies on four occasions, this will be their first Copa America meeting. It should be noted that Jamaica has never defeated Ecuador, which means Wednesday’s contest takes on added significance for Hallgrimsson’s side to possibly achieve two significant milestones in one go.

But, again, that is easier said than done, as in their four meetings to date, Ecuador has won three, while the other ended in a stalemate. The last encounter between the two, in 2018, ended 2-0 in favour of the South Americans.

Across those four games, Jamaica has only scored three goals, while Ecuador tallied nine. With all the stats lining up against the Boyz, Hallgrimsson highlighted the importance of maintaining a balanced approach.

“We had a good game against Mexico the players performed well, but we just didn’t win. We are the underdogs in the group so we just want to show the same performance against Ecuador and see what it brings us. Hopefully it will bring us three points, but certainly we want to build on the performance against Mexico because we really are doing everything to stay in this tournament, I believe we have the squad to do that and so that is the focus,” Hallgrimsson declared.

Despite his familiarity with Ecuadorian counterpart Felix Sanchez, Hallgrimsson pointed out that it offers very little comfort.

“I know Felix so I know what kind of football they will play, and of course we have analysed them really well. They are really aggressive and physical and they have a strong midfield, but I think it’s the energy and commitment of this Ecuador team that is going to be the trickiest thing for us. Like I said they lost their first game as well which puts them under pressure so I know they are going to be more intense against us,” he opined.

Still, the tactician expressed delight that the Boyz are in high spirit with every player eager to give their best.

“Everybody's fit and ready, and that's a good sign. Normally, the first game causes some injuries after a long break for some players, but everybody's fresh. Everybody wants to play big games for Jamaica, so everybody's fighting for a spot in the team, and that's a good and healthy sign for us,” Hallgrimsson ended. 

For Shamar Nicholson, Jamaica's senior Reggae Boyz 1-0 loss to Mexico in their Copa America opener was a bittersweet occasion, as that encounter marked his 50th international appearance for the country.

Though Nicholson would have loved to celebrate the significant milestone in victory, but it was not to be. As such, he was left ruing what could have been, as he reflected on his career journey which started at Trench Town High school, blossomed at Boys' Town Football Club, and he is now bearing fruit as one of Jamaica's top-rated strikers.

Across those 50 games, Nicholson has so far tallied 19 goals and won three medals –silver and the 2017 Caribbean Cup and Concacaf Gold Cup, and an historic bronze at 2023-24 Concacaf Nations League.

"Yeah, it was special moment," Nicholson declared in a recent interview with Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) media.

"It's just a pity that we didn't get to win to make it more special, but it was a proud moment for me and my family, my friends, coaching staff, and everyone, who have supported me along the way during bad time and good time. So it was really a proud moment," he added.

Shamar Nicholson (right) and rising sensation Keheim Dixon.

Nicholson’s rise to becoming one of Jamaica's key players has been marked by determination and hard work. Though a man of few words, the 27-year-old's achievements on the international stage is a testament to his dedication and talent, as his true personality comes to light when the ball is at his feet.

Since making his debut in 2017, the towering striker has become a mainstay in the senior Reggae Boyz team, especially giving his scoring prowess and physical presence on the field, which makes him a constant threat to opponents.

In fact, it is for that reason why Nicholson has made the rounds at clubs in Slovenia, Belgium, Russia and now France. In Slovenia he scored 18 goals for Domzale, and later tallied 30 goals for Belgian outfit Charleroi. He later moved to Spartak Moscow, where he had eight goals and won the Russian Cup, before being loaned out to French Ligue 1 side Clermont, where has four goals to date.

Each league and club offered a different challenge, but for Nicholson, the experiences were worthwhile contributions to his development.

"Yes, I will say culture wise (France and Belgium are somewhat similar), but I think it was also a good experience, you know, because the level is high and really physical, and it also challenges you mentally. So I think it was a good experience and I learned a lot," Nicholson shared.

Despite the defeat to Mexico in keen contest where Michail Antonio had a goal ruled out for offside and the Boyz generally squandered a few good half chances.

While that result was not in their favour, Nicholson believes there were positives to take from the game, and, as such, he remains optimistic and focused on the challenges ahead, particularly the upcoming clash against Ecuador.

Shamar Nicholson celebrates with Reggae Boyz teammates.

He emphasized the importance of staying positive and focused, as the Heimir Hallgrimsson-coached Boyz hunt an historic first goal and, by extension, point at the prestigious Copa America tournament 

The Reggae Boyz have shown in previous tournaments that they can bounce back from setbacks, and Nicholson is confident they will do so again. Hallgrimsson’s side is currently at the foot of Group B without a point, a statistic they could very well change with victory over Ecuador on Wednesday at Allegiant Stadium.

They will then close out the group stage against current leaders Venezuela on Sunday.

“The vibe is right, you know, everyone is positive despite the loss (against Mexico), and we all have a positive mindset. So, it's just to take things step by step. You know, we prepare in training, so it's just to go there and believe, and I think we're ready for that game,” Nicholson ended.