Kishane Thompson and Oblique Seville have the top two fastest times going into the 100m finals set for later today.

Thompson, the newcomer, easily won his heat in 9.80s, 0.01 faster than his compatriot Oblique Seville who cruised to a personal best 9.81 to win his heat while looking across at the brash American Noah Lyles who ran 9.983.

The USA’s Fred Kerley was second in Thompson’s heat in 9.84,  a season’s best.

Also through to the final are South Africa’s Akani Simbini (9.86), Letsile Tebogo (9.91), and reigning Olympic champion Marcel Jacobs, who ran a season’s best 9.92. The USA’s Kenny Bednarek is also through to the final in 9.92.

In a stunning turn of events and devastating news for the Bahamas, 2020 Tokyo Olympics 400m champion Steven Gardiner will not start in the 400m for the Bahamas at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games where some of the Caribbean’s best athletes have suffered injuries.

Gardiner missed the 2022 World Athletics Championships in Oregon with a foot injury and suffered a injury in the semi-finals of the 2023 World Championships in Budapest last year. He was considered the best shot at a medal for the Bahamas at these Olympic Games as Shaunae Miller-Uibo, the islands’ other 400m star, is not in the best of health this season having withdrawn from the Bahamas national championships last month.

News of Gardiner’s withdrawal comes on the heels of withdrawals of Jamaican star sprinters Shericka Jackson from both the 100m and 200m and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce from the semi-finals of the 100m dash on Saturday.

Day 4 of track and field at the 2024 Paris Olympics saw three Jamaican women advance to the semi-final round of the 400m hurdles. Shian Salmon, Rushell Clayton, and Janieve Russell all secured their spots in the next round, where they will face stiff competition primarily from their American rivals for places in the final set for Tuesday, August 6.

Salmon emerged as the fastest Jamaican qualifier, running a solid 53.95 seconds to finish second in her heat. The heat was won by gold medal contender Femke Bol, who clocked an impressive 53.38 seconds.

Clayton also made a strong impression, comfortably winning the opening heat with a time of 54.32 seconds. Clayton’s smooth and confident run positions her well for a possible place on the podium come Tuesday assuming she advances from the semi-finals.

Russell faced a bit more competition but still managed to qualify with ease. She finished third in her heat with a time of 54.67 seconds. The heat was won by the USA’s Anna Cockrell, who crossed the finish line in 53.91 seconds.

In addition to the Jamaicans, the competition will be fierce with Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone, the defending champion and world record holder, who cruised to victory in the final heat with a time of 53.60 seconds. McLaughlin-Levrone remains the strong favourite for the gold medal.

 Several Caribbean athletes advanced in their respective events during the preliminary rounds of the 200m, 110m hurdles, and long jump events on Sunday. Following her historic 100m victory on Saturday, Julien Alfred of St Lucia demonstrated her intention to achieve a sprint double with a commanding performance in the opening heat of the 200m, winning in an impressive 22.41 seconds.

Despite Alfred's strong showing, the fastest time of the round belonged to American gold medal favourite Gabby Thomas, who triumphed in Heat 2 with a blistering 22.20 seconds.

Jamaica, reeling from the last-minute withdrawal of two-time world champion Shericka Jackson, saw its remaining 200m entrants advance to the semi-finals. Niesha Burgher secured her spot by finishing second in Heat 2 with a time of 22.54 seconds. Lanae-Tava Thomas also progressed, placing second in Heat 5 with a time of 22.70 seconds, behind the USA’s Brittany Brown, who won the heat in 22.38 seconds.

In the 110m hurdles, all three of Jamaica’s representatives advanced to the semi-finals. Orlando Bennett led the way with a time of 13.35 seconds, finishing second in his heat. Rasheed Broadbell also secured a second-place finish in his heat, clocking 13.42 seconds. Olympic champion Hansle Parchment faced a tense wait after finishing fifth in his heat with a time of 13.43 seconds but advanced as a non-automatic qualifier. Additionally, Antoine Andrews of the Bahamas impressed by advancing with a time of 13.35 seconds.

The men’s long jump saw mixed results for Jamaica. Wayne Pinnock and Carey McLeod both qualified for the finals, with Pinnock achieving a mark of 7.96m and McLeod reaching 7.90m. However, 2019 World Champion Tajay Gayle was unable to advance, his best jump being 7.78m.

In a moment of unprecedented triumph for St Lucia, Julien Alfred captured the island's first-ever Olympic medal with a stunning victory in the women's 100m at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Racing in driving rain, Alfred clocked a sensational 10.72 seconds, setting a new national record and defeating world champion Sha'Carri Richardson and her American teammate Melissa Jefferson.

The jubilation was palpable across St Lucia as citizens gathered at multiple watch parties to witness this historic achievement.

To ensure widespread access to this historic moment, the government organized the parties for the expectant citizenry to cheer their heroine on. “What happened is that we set up four locations because we really wanted people to have it at their convenience. The population of Castries has dwindled over the years as people have moved to the outskirts so we had a watch party in Soufrière, in my constituency of Gros Islet, we had in Ciceron, which is her home community, we had a watch party there as well. So, we really had it spread throughout St Lucia and in the South we had it at the View Fort Square,” said Sports Minister Kenson Casimir, who also articulated the collective elation of the nation in the wake of Alfred's landmark win.

"We are ecstatic! We are beyond description right now in terms of what was just achieved as a people," Casimir exclaimed. “Winning an Olympic medal whether it be gold, silver or bronze, a lot of the time the rhetoric is that Julien Alfred won or that sort of thing, the conversation now begins to circle around St Lucia winning a gold medal and this is why there was always a siren call for Corporate St Lucia and other individuals to get involved.

“First National Bank in St Lucia did an awesome job in sponsoring Julien and other athletes and our island championships on the weekend so we have seen the fruits of all what was put in place for our athletes to really thrive.”

Casimir also highlighted his personal pride as the first sports minister under whose tenure St Lucia has won an Olympic gold. "As the first sports minister to bring home a gold for St Lucia, I am absolutely elated."

Reflecting on Alfred's previous accomplishments, including her World Indoor 60m title in Glasgow in March, Casimir hinted at an even grander celebration to come. "Absolutely! It is going to be out of this world; colossal. We've always believed that Julien was special, and she deserves all the credit for her hard work, both mentally and physically. We are really just excited to see what’s next for her.”

In a turn of events that has left Jamaican athletics fans reeling, two-time world 200m champion Shericka Jackson is a late withdrawal from the 200m at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This news comes on the heels of another significant setback for Jamaica, with Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce withdrawing from the 100m semi-finals just the day before.

Jackson, who sustained an injury while running the 200m at the Gyulai István Memorial in Hungary on July 9, had been hoping to recover in time to compete in Paris. She withdrew from the 100m event 48 hours before its start on Friday, focusing her efforts on being fit for her favoured event, the 200m. However, hopes were dashed on Sunday when it was announced that Jackson would not be competing in the 200m.

This withdrawal is a significant blow to Jamaica's medal prospects at the Paris Games. With both Jackson and Fraser-Pryce out of contention, Jamaica failed to secure a medal in the women’s 100m for the first time in over 30 years. The last time Jamaica did not medal in 100m at the Olympics was in Seoul in 1988.

The absence of Jackson leaves a heavy burden on the shoulders of Niesha Burgher and Lanae-Tava Thomas to deliver for Jamaica in the 200m.

In an unexpected turn of events at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, Jamaican sprint legend Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce withdrew from the 100m semi-finals on Saturday, ending her bid for a record-extending fifth Olympic medal in the event.

The news broke minutes before the highly anticipated race, which included medal favourites, Julien Alfred, the eventual gold medal winner and World Champion Sha'Carri Richardson, who won silver. While unconfirmed reports suggest Fraser-Pryce sustained an injury during her warm-up, the exact details remain unclear.

The 37-year-old Fraser-Pryce, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in the 100m from the 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Games, has had an illustrious career marked by consistency and excellence. She is the only woman in history to win medals in the 100m at four consecutive Olympic Games, a testament to her enduring talent and determination.

In what was set to be her final Olympic 100m appearance, Fraser-Pryce's withdrawal was a significant blow to her fans and supporters worldwide. However, in a heartfelt statement, she expressed her deep gratitude to those who have supported her throughout her remarkable career.

"It is difficult for me to find the words to even describe the depth of my disappointment. I know that my supporters share and shoulder this disappointment with me. I am truly Blessed to have had the steadfast support of my fans since my Olympic debut in 2008,” she said.

“The support of my fans, my country, and the larger community has rooted me in immense gratitude that has sustained me over the course of my career. With every step, with every win, you all have been there for me. My Faith has always affirmed me to trust my journey. Thank you for continuing to be with me today and every day."

Fraser-Pryce's statement reflects her profound appreciation for the support she has received from her fans, her country, and the global athletics community. Her career, marked by numerous accolades and groundbreaking achievements, has inspired countless individuals and cemented her legacy as one of the greatest sprinters of all time.

In addition to her two Olympic gold medals, Fraser-Pryce's illustrious career includes five 100m World Championship titles and a 200m title, as well as a silver medal in the 200m at the London 2012 Olympics and a 200m silver at the World Championships in Oregon in 2022. Her accomplishments on the world stage have solidified her status as a true icon in the sport of track and field.

As the athletics world comes to terms with the end of Fraser-Pryce's Olympic career, her words serve as a reminder of the challenges and unpredictability inherent in sports. Her journey, characterized by resilience and faith, continues to inspire, and her legacy will undoubtedly endure, regardless of the outcome of a single race.

While her quest for a fifth Olympic 100m medal may have ended prematurely, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce's impact on the sport and her indomitable spirit remains as powerful as ever.

As the highly anticipated men’s 100m showdown at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games approaches, Stephen Francis, coach of Jamaican sprinter Kishane Thompson, remains unfazed by the prospect of Noah Lyles's mind games. Thompson, who boasts the fastest time in the world this year at 9.77 seconds set at the national championships in June, is seen as a formidable contender for the Olympic title.

 The blue-riband sprint promises to be an electrifying event, with Jamaicans aiming to reclaim the Olympic title last held by Usain Bolt, who won his third consecutive 100m gold at the 2016 Rio Games. Italy’s Marcel Jacobs claimed the title at Tokyo 2020, but American Noah Lyles, the 2023 World Champion, is determined to become the first American since Justin Gatlin in 2004 to win the Olympic 100m title.

 Lyles, who ran a lifetime best of 9.81 seconds at the London Diamond League meet, exudes confidence heading into Paris. “I beat everyone that I touch. I don’t see why the Jamaicans are any different. This is what I pray for, this is what I live for and I back myself up, don’t I?” Lyles stated.

 However, Francis believes that Lyles’s psychological tactics will have little impact on Thompson. “I don't think Noah Lyles can play mind games this time," Francis remarked in response to a question from Sportsmax’s Donald Oliver. “I think you will find he plays mind games with those he is faster than. I don't think he will have the opportunity this time around, but we will see if his mind games work on people who have demonstrated they are a lot faster than he is.”

 Lyles faces a formidable challenge from the Jamaican duo of Thompson and Oblique Seville. With Thompson’s blistering 9.77 and Seville’s own impressive performances, the stage is set for a thrilling contest.

In an inspiring display of perseverance and national pride, Haitian swimmer Alex Grand'Pierre faced formidable challenges yet delivered a commendable performance in the 100m breaststroke at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Despite a rigorous internship and limited preparation time, Alex displayed his dedication, finishing fourth in his heat and earning high praise from his coach and sister, Naomy Grand'Pierre, Haiti's first female Olympic swimmer.

His journey to Paris and his resilient spirit on the world stage highlight not only his athletic talent but also his commitment to representing Haiti with honour and distinction.

Naomy, who made history as the first woman to swim for Haiti at the Olympics in Rio 2016, explained the circumstances that affected Alex's performance.

"I think context is the most important thing," she began. "Alexander was interning in New York with the UN and the State Department, so the three months leading up to the Olympics, his training was based in New York. He was using a 25-metre pool and training every day, but when you train in a 25m pool as opposed to a long course pool for a long course race, there are some little details that you're not able to refine and endurance that you're not able to maximize."

Alex's tight schedule also played a role in his preparation. "It's also important to note that because of this internship and the very strict dates, Alexander arrived the morning of the 25th, which was one day before the opening ceremonies. So Alexander was able to get one solid day of training, had a wonderful performance at the opening ceremonies, left the opening ceremonies early, and then his race was in the morning," Naomy explained.

Despite these challenges, she expressed pride in Alex's efforts. "Considering all those outside factors and comparing it to all the other athletes that arrived two weeks before their Olympic races to perform at 100 percent best, this was Alexander's best, considering all the circumstances. So for him to only be a second shy of his best time, he still came fourth in his heat. He's the third fastest Caribbean Olympian. So from all the breaststrokers from the Caribbean islands, he is the third fastest and I think he did a phenomenal job."

Naomy (right) Alex and proud members of the Haitian delegation in Paris.

Naomy emphasized the significance of Alex's participation in the Olympics for her troubled nation. "What Alexander did well is rise to the occasion and understand the significance of his role as an athlete at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, and it was to represent Haiti at the highest possible level. Him at the opening ceremonies is a direct reflection of that, him before his race, during his race, and after his race is a direct reflection of that."

Looking ahead to the next Olympic Games, Naomy noted areas for improvement. "Under perfect circumstances, I would have loved for Alexander to participate in the pre-Olympic training camp that the head coach of Azura, John Luca, was in charge of. He would have adjusted to the time zone and done all of those things. So there's always room for improvement, and hopefully, in the next Olympic games, he will have all the ideal conditions for him to go a best time."

Alex's experience in Paris also provided valuable lessons. "As soon as he finished his race, he crossed paths with Adam Peaty and was able to take a photo with him. He's like the best breaststroker in the world. So it's moments like that; I think he knows that he's among the best. He was quite literally a symbol of Haitian excellence. And he's aware of the privilege and responsibility that comes with the position that he's in. I think he's taken a very good leadership role with all the Haitian athletes that are here; it's a delegation of seven."

Alex Grand'Pierre and Adam Peaty, who won silver in the final of the 100m breaststroke.

Naomy concluded with praise for Alex's positive influence. "Alexander has been very vocal about how important it is to bring positivity, good vibrations, and good energy for Haiti here in Paris for the world to see. And Alexander has done a beautiful, beautiful job."

Alex, a rising college senior, qualified for the Olympics after winning the 100m breaststroke at the Central American and Caribbean Swimming Championships last month. He holds Haitian records in the 50, 100, and 200-metre breaststroke and the Bowdoin College records in those distances.

Coming off a successful season in the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC), where he was named an All-American in the 100m breaststroke at the NCAA Division III championships, Alex has shown promise and resilience as he sets his sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

 At the Jamaica Rifle Association (JRA) Jamaica Cup on Saturday, July 27, Corporal Shayon Francis, the top-ranked female pistol shooter in Jamaica, was announced as the newest brand ambassador for Spectrum Systems Limited, Jamaica's leading roofing supplier.

Francis was previously a member of the historic Super Six all-female shooting squad that proudly represented Jamaica at the PanAmerican Handgun Championships in Florida in 2022. During that competition, the team clinched a Bronze medal and Francis has been on the rise since.

Francis now holds the top ranking as Jamaica's leading female pistol shooter. Typically, she achieves a position in the top ten among all shooters at the Jamaica Rifle Association, where her competitors are predominantly male.

Shayon’s upcoming 2024 schedule includes the Smoking Barrel Regional Standoff in Barbados from August 30 to Sep 1. She is also set to participate in the Fast and Furious Woodleigh Qualifier on Oct 27.

Shayon, a native of St. Thomas in Jamaica, rose to the top of her sport by virtue of commitment to excellence, determination, and hard work, constantly practicing to hone her skills to become one of the region's best shooters, male or female.

Spectrum Managing Director Andrew Stanigar is happy to have Francis on board, "We previously sponsored the Super Six shooters and also the Spectrum Shooting tournament at the JRA, so this is a continuation of our support of the sport. Shayon is the number 1 in shooting for women in Jamaica, and so, it's a no-brainer that she will be backed by the number 1 roofing company, Spectrum Systems Ltd."

As part of the sponsorship, Francis will enhance Spectrum's branding and corporate image as she will be included in advertising campaigns alongside other brand ambassadors, race car driver Sara Misir and Reggae Boyz captain, Andre Blake.

Francis looks forward to representing Spectrum Systems, “I am thrilled and deeply grateful for Spectrum Systems Ltd.'s generous sponsorship as I gear up for my upcoming matches. Although my sights are set on the ultimate goal of World Shoot in South Africa 2025, I understand the significance of each upcoming match. With Spectrum Systems Ltd. by my side, I am equipped with the resources for more training sessions, enabling me to stay primed and deliver my A-game in all the matches” she said.

 Four-time Olympic 100m medallist Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce is embracing the experience as she prepares for what will be her last Olympic Games, though not necessarily her final season in track and field. Speaking to Jamaican media in Paris on Monday, Fraser-Pryce expressed her enthusiasm to compete, despite the significant challenges posed by injuries that have limited her to just four races this season. Her latest setback forced her to withdraw from her last race prior to arriving in Paris.

 The 37-year-old sprint legend has a storied Olympic career, having won gold in the 100m in Beijing 2008 and London 2012. She captured bronze while battling a toe injury in Rio 2016 and secured silver at the Tokyo 2020 Games, making her the only woman to medal in the 100m at four consecutive Olympics. Fraser-Pryce will aim to extend her record with a fifth 100m medal when competition begins on August 2.

"It's the final Olympic Games; let me repeat that," Fraser-Pryce said hinting that Paris will not be her final season in the sport. "I think this time around I have been having a good experience with the Olympic spirit, just meeting people. Yesterday I went to a rugby match (to watch her new friend and massive fan Michaela Blyde of New Zealand play), the first time going to a rugby match. Considering that my competition is this week, that would probably be the last competition I go to before I get to compete but it has been a good experience."

Fraser-Pryce, who finished third at the Jamaican national championships in late June, shared her positive outlook on her Olympic preparations.

"So far it has been good. Again, always excited to step on the track. That's where you kind of unleash everything that you have been experiencing, how training has been going, how you really want to represent not just yourself but your country and I think ultimately for me being here at the fifth Olympic Games is such a blessing. When I look back, like five, it's crazy to even think about and the fact that it has been five straight Olympic Games, it's even more crazy but it's just the blessings, about how God has been good to me and how He has kept me so I'm really looking forward to the experience, stepping on the track and always, once I get on the line I'm giving 100 per cent at all times and that's what I'm looking forward to."

Acknowledging the competitiveness of the field, Fraser-Pryce emphasized the importance of focus and determination.

"The field is always tough. It's the Olympic Games, it's every four years so whenever anybody lines up I think it's really about doing their best because for some people this is one shot because the Olympics is every four years so for me I am always of the expectation that it is going to be competitive no matter where I am at; whether it's an Olympic Games, a World Championships or a track meet, it's going to be competitive so you have to have that in your head space, get on the line and make sure you're focused on yourself and get the job done."

Despite the West Indies' 3-0 series defeat to England, fast bowler Jayden Seales emerged as a standout performer, earning the Player of the Series award for his team. Seales, who recently returned to international cricket after a long injury layoff, expressed his pride in representing the West Indies once more and highlighted the role playing for Sussex played in his successful return.

Seales, who took 13 wickets in the three-match Test series at an average of 27.23, spoke about the significance of his comeback. "I'm proud of being able to represent the West Indies again. Coming back and doing well for the team is rewarding. I'm just looking to improve going forward," he said.

Reflecting on his time with Sussex, Seales noted that it was instrumental in preparing him for the series against England. "Playing for Sussex was great. It allowed me to understand the conditions and how they can help me. The experience was invaluable," he added.

Seales joined Sussex in early April and impressed with his performance, taking 24 wickets in six matches, including two five-wicket hauls, at an average of 24.25. His stint in English county cricket undoubtedly played a role in his readiness for the West Indies tour of England.

"England's attacking approach was tough at times. They take opportunities to score if you give them a chance, so you have to be on it all the time," Seales remarked about the challenges he faced against England's aggressive batting lineup.

Despite the series loss, Seales remains optimistic about the future of the West Indies bowling attack. "I think once we grow and learn, we can be a force to be reckoned with," he said. "The body is not too bad, just trying to get some recovery in and looking forward to the series against South Africa at home."

Seales' journey back to the West Indies squad began after he was sidelined with a knee injury in December 2022. His impressive performance for Sussex earned him a recall, and during the series against England, he reached a personal milestone by picking up his 50th Test wicket.

While the series result was disappointing for the West Indies, Seales' performance provided a bright spot and a glimpse of the potential within the team. His contributions will be crucial as the West Indies prepare for their upcoming series against South Africa, where Seales hopes to continue his upward trajectory and help his team achieve success.

West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite acknowledged that his team's first innings score was below par and pointed out their lack of consistency following their 10-wicket loss to England at Edgbaston on Sunday. This defeat, which occurred inside three days, resulted in a series sweep for England.

 In the opening innings, West Indies posted a total of 282, with Brathwaite contributing 61 and Jason Holder 59. However, England responded strongly with a total of 376, bolstered by significant contributions from Ollie Smith (95), Joe Root (87), Chris Woakes (62), and Ben Stokes (54). Alzarri Joseph (4-122) and Jayden Seales (3-79) were the pick of the West Indies bowlers.

 Reflecting on the performance, Brathwaite remarked, "For sure, looking back, it wasn't enough runs. It was a better pitch than 280, but we showed good discipline. It's tough to take. We weren't as disciplined with the ball as we should have been to put a batting team under pressure for long periods. We have to improve on that."

 Brathwaite further emphasized the need for his team to focus on consistency and execution. "We weren't as consistent as we needed to be, didn't hit the top-of-off area long enough. You give the batsmen momentum. We need to get back to where we were in Australia, hitting the top of off," he said.

 Despite their struggles, Brathwaite highlighted the positive aspects of the team's performance. "We never gave up, always came back and fought. Kavem Hodge got his hundred, and we got first-innings totals. Jayden took wickets, and Motie as well. We need more cricket; playing against good players, you will improve. So I'm excited for the series against South Africa. We've got to have the right attitude and consistency."

 West Indies' second innings saw a collapse, managing only 175 runs. Mikyle Louis and Kavem Hodge both scored half-centuries, but their efforts were overshadowed by Mark Wood's exceptional post-lunch spell. Wood took five wickets for 40 runs, finishing with figures of 5 for 40 from 14 overs, adding to his 2 for 52 from the first innings. His spell dismantled the West Indies batting lineup, leaving them with a paltry lead of 81 runs.

 England's chase was swift and decisive. With Zak Crawley injured, Ben Stokes opened the innings and delivered a blistering 57 off 28 balls, while Ben Duckett contributed 25 off 16. They chased down the target in just 7.2 overs, securing a 3-0 series sweep for England.

 Brathwaite expressed optimism for the upcoming series against South Africa, emphasizing the need for growth and improvement. "Looking forward to [SA Tests], because we have to see growth and improvement. Hit the top of off, stayed committed with the bat. Then we'll see improvements."

In the opening round of the Caribbean Zonal Volleyball Association (CAZOVA) Under-19 Boys and Girls Championships in Spanish Town, Jamaica, the Barbadian women’s team and the Jamaican men’s team secured victories on Saturday. Trinidad and Tobago's Under-19 women's volleyball team suffered a 3-1 defeat to Barbados, while hosts Jamaica's men blanked Aruba 25-21, 25-22, 25-20 in their opening match.

The six-time champions, T&T, struggled to find their rhythm early on in their first match of the preliminary rounds in Pool 'A' at the GC Foster College. The Barbadian team capitalized on this, taking the first set 25-17.

In the second set, T&T seemed to regain their footing, building a promising 13-8 lead. However, the Bajans demonstrated resilience, leveling the scores at 13-apiece and then surging ahead to win the set 25-21, thus securing a 2-0 lead in the match.

Determined to stay in the game, T&T mounted a comeback in the third set, winning 25-16 and reviving their hopes of turning the match around. This spirited performance extended the match to a fourth set. However, Barbados delivered a commanding performance in the fourth set, sealing their victory with a 25-13 win.

With this loss, T&T's path to the semifinals now hinges on their next match against host nation Jamaica. A victory is crucial for T&T to advance in the tournament.

Adding to the excitement of the opening round, Jamaica's men’s team delivered a strong performance against Aruba, winning their match in straight sets with scores of 25-21, 25-22, and 25-20. This victory set a positive tone for the host nation in the championships.

In other action on Saturday, the lone boys' match featured host Jamaica facing Curacao, adding to the competitive spirit of the championships. The wins for Barbados Women and Jamaica's Men have set the stage for an exciting tournament ahead.

Antigua and Barbuda's 15-year-old swimming sensation, Ellie Shaw, has been eliminated from the Olympic Games in the 100m breaststroke after finishing third in her opening heat on Sunday. Shaw clocked a time of 1:14.78, placing her behind 18-year-old Rouxin Tan of Malaysia, who won the heat in 1:12.50, and Imane Houda El Barodi, 23, who finished in 1:14.57. Unfortunately, none of the swimmers from this heat advanced to the semi-finals as only the top 16 swimmers overall progressed on time.

Shaw, Antigua's 2023 Junior Sportswoman of the Year, swims for the Wadadi Aquatic Racers Swim Club in St John's and is coached by Edith Clashing. Despite the early exit, her participation in the Olympics marks a significant milestone in her young career. Shaw began swimming in 2013 and has since become a prominent figure in Caribbean swimming.

Earlier this year, Shaw won gold at the 2024 Carifta Championships in the 100m breaststroke. She also set a national record and a junior area record in the 50m breaststroke with a time of 37.73 at the 2024 World Championships, demonstrating her potential and skill in the sport.

Though her journey in Paris has come to an end, Shaw's accomplishments at such a young age highlight her promising future in competitive swimming. Her dedication and achievements continue to inspire young athletes in Antigua and Barbuda and across the Caribbean.