分类： Sports

2025 – The Caribbean Drag Racing Championship (CDRC) continues to expand and gain momentum, with increased participation, rising competition, and mounting anticipation for the 2026 Championship Final.

What began as a four-country series among Barbados, Guyana, Trinidad & Tobago, and Jamaica has quickly evolved into a robust regional competition. The CDRC now includes Antigua & Barbuda, Grenada, St Lucia, and St Vincent & the Grenadines, with the Cayman Islands recently joining as a non-competing Affiliate Member.

Sanctioned under the FIA’s National Calendar platform, the CDRC features two performance-based categories:

Pro Street Class (10.999 to 10.000 seconds)

Pro Race Class (9.999 to 9.000 seconds)

As a closed competition, entry is by invitation only through each country’s National Sporting Authority (ASN), with racers participating free of charge. Under the innovative championship format, competitors earn points through three locally staged qualifying events, with the top 16 drivers in each class earning a spot at the Championship Final scheduled for early 2026 in Jamaica.

Currently, 85 drivers are actively competing across the region—55 in Pro Street and 30 in Pro Race—across 27 qualifying events being hosted throughout the 8 participating countries.

In the Pro Street class, Jamaica’s Kevin Jackson leads the standings, having already competed in two national events. He is followed by a three-way tie for second between Samuel Cumberbatch (Barbados), Brian Evans (St Lucia), and Ellsworth Dacon (St Vincent & the Grenadines)—all of whom are poised to score more points as they approach their second events.

The Pro Race class mirrors the trend, with Guyana’s Peter Daby currently in the lead, having already raced twice. He is followed by Joshua Lewis (Grenada) and Dennis Brouwer (St Lucia), who are tied for second.

As the Championship moves into its high-stakes summer stretch, nine qualifying events are slated to take place in as many weeks between July and September. This intense period is expected to bring major shifts in the standings as racers across the Caribbean push to secure their spot in the 2026 Final.

Meanwhile, planning is well underway for the much-anticipated Championship Final at the historic Vernamfield venue in Jamaica, set for early 2026. This marquee event promises to be the largest and most spectacular drag racing showdown ever staged in the region.

The Caribbean Drag Racing Championship continues to break new ground in regional motorsport, fostering high-level competition and strengthening the spirit of collaboration among Caribbean nations.

For further information, media inquiries or sponsorship opportunities, please contact:Caribbean Drag Racing Championship Secretariat [https://www.caribbeandrag.racing/](https://www.caribbeandrag.racing/)

📹 A video has surfaced showing two Leeward Islands Under-19 cricketers, aged 18 and 19, involved in a physical altercation in St. Kitts. The reason behind the fight remains unclear, and attempts to reach Leeward Islands officials, including Board President Enoch Lewis, have gone unanswered. The incident comes as the team competes in the CWI U19 tournament, following a narrow five-run loss to the Windward Islands on Thursday.

Clubs and teams participating in the second annual Antigua Cup International Youth Football Tournament will benefit from a generous partnership agreement between the organisers, Young Warriors Football Club and Tropic Ace, an Antiguan clothing and sportswear company located at Redcliffe Quay.

The Antigua Cup, featuring four age-categories: U10, U13, U15 & U17, kicks-off this Sunday and runs until July 13 at the Buckley’s Primary School Playing Field.

More than 200 boys and girls are expected to benefit from this initiative.

At a media conference on Tuesday, Tropic Ace’s Managing Director, Brent Emmanuel said his company was committed to assisting the tournament and delighted to be investing in the future talent of Antigua & Barbuda and the Caribbean.

Mr. Emmanuel also highlighted the areas of benefit for the teams and clubs as follows:

1. Discount for All Participants: As part of our commitment to supporting the football community, we will offer 10% at Tropic Ace to all tournament participants for the month of July. This offer will allow the players and their families to enjoy high-quality products at a discounted price, and it aligns with our goal of fostering community engagement.

2. Age Group Prizes: We recognize that each age group deserves to be celebrated for their effort and dedication. The following prizes will be awarded to players in each of the 4 age groups: A $200 Gift Certificate for the MVP from each age group, to reward exceptional performance on the field. A $200 Gift Certificate for the Best Girl in each age group, recognizing the outstanding contributions of female athletes in the tournament. A $200 Gift Certificate for the Top Defender in each age group, honoring the crucial defensive skills that help shape the game.

3. Team Prizes: To further celebrate the achievements of the winning teams in each age group, [Your Company Name] will provide 5 soccer balls for each of the four age group winners, totaling 20 soccer balls. This prize will help further develop the teams’ skills and encourage continued participation in football.

President of YWFC, Colin James, expressed his club’s gratitude on behalf of the competing clubs and teams to Tropic Ace and described the company’s assistance as timely and beneficial.

Editor’s Note: The Antigua Cup International Youth Football Tournament and Player Develop Camp were conceptualized by the Young Warriors Football Club to attract international, regional and Antiguan clubs to develop and expose talented players for possible academy and professional tryouts.

For More Information: call 268-786-0115 or visit Facebook pages: antiguacup/youngwarriorsfc

The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) today met with the executive of the National Soca Fraternity to address concerns surrounding two competitors who were judged ahead of the official quarterfinal round of the Party Monarch Competition.

The meeting, held on Friday, July 4th, was chaired by the Minister with responsibility for Carnival, the Honourable Daryll Matthew, and included representatives from the Festivals Commission as well as the executive body of the National Soca Fraternity, led by Chairman Peetron Thomas.

It was acknowledged by all parties that the earlier judging of the two competitors resulted from a misalignment in the dates communicated — a discrepancy between what was publicly announced and what was formally shared with participants. This led to scheduling conflicts for the artists involved, who had already made travel arrangements based on the initial information. It is important to note that this situation occurred through no fault of the artists.

In a spirit of fairness and collaboration, the National Soca Fraternity proposed the following resolution:

The two affected competitors, along with the next five placing artistes (positions 16-20) in both the Groovy and Jumpy segments of the competition, will participate in a live performance round judged by the same panel as the original quarterfinal event.

This recommendation was accepted by the Minister of Festivals and the Festivals Commission, with the full support of both parties. The live performance round will take place at Jam Session on Thursday, July 10th, and the top performers from each category will qualify for the semifinal stage of the Party Monarch Competition.

The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission thanks the National Soca Fraternity and the broader soca community for their continued engagement.

“Together, we are committed to delivering a Party Monarch Competition that reflects the true spirit of Carnival — one that is fair, inclusive, and full of energy. With the support of our artistes, judges, and fans, we look forward to an unforgettable season of music, culture, and celebration. Let the vibes begin!”

— Honourable Daryll Matthew

Minister with responsibility for Carnival

ICC Match Referee Sir Richie Richardson will not take on the role of Antigua and Barbuda’s Sports Commissioner due to a demanding ICC schedule.

Last year, Sir Richie, a member of the ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, was announced by the government to become the country’s latest commissioner of sports following unsuccessful talks to make him a government senator and junior minister.

However, Sports Minister Daryll Matthew recently revealed that principal Dr Colin Greene would be the new commissioner of sports.

Matthew said a demanding schedule in ICC cricket and intensive travel had hampered the ability of both Sir Richie and the government to formalise the appointment.

“Sir Richie Richardson, we’ve been having some conversations, and his time simply is not allowing him to be able to take up the position and to function in a way that we have,” Matthew said.

“There’s a lot more international cricket being played and with him being an ICC match referee, it’s just not giving him the time that we expected, and he probably expected to have, so he has agreed that he will step back from that appointment.”

As a result, Matthew disclosed that the government had begun discussions with Dr Greene several weeks ago after the veteran educator expressed an interest in pursuing new professional challenges following his nearly 23-year tenure at Princess Margaret School (PMS).

“We had some discussions with Dr Colin Greene several weeks ago, and he expressed an interest in having a new direction in his career.

“He has given enormous service to Princess Margaret. I don’t believe there are too many persons in Antigua and Barbuda who would dispute that he has transformed that school in an amazingly positive way,” Matthew said.

Under Dr Greene’s stewardship, PMS has achieved unprecedented success in local athletic competitions, capturing multiple titles in both male and female categories of the Antigua and Barbuda Inter-School Track and Field Championship.

The National Sailing Academy (NSA) proudly celebrated the end of its 2024–2025 sailing year with a heartwarming graduation ceremony held last week, at the historic St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Falmouth. The event brought together students, families, teachers, and supporters to honor the accomplishments, growth, and resilience of the Academy’s dedicated young sailors.

This year, 338 students were registered across NSA’s wide-ranging programs—including the Primary School Sailing Program, Secondary School Program, Saturday Sailing, and the inclusive Sailability Program. Of those, 100 students received certificates at graduation including Basic skills, RYA Stage 1, 2 and 3, during the ceremony, marking an important milestone in their sailing journeys.

The evening’s program was filled with moments of pride and celebration as instructors came forward to present certificates to students from their respective Primary schools & Secondary schools, Saturday Sailing and the Sailability Program, each group representing a key part of NSA’s diverse and inclusive sailing community.

A special highlight was the recognition of Top Sailors, acknowledging students who demonstrated exceptional skill, progress, and sportsmanship throughout the year. Special recognition was given to Cobbs Cross Primary School, where all six participating students received their RYA Stage 1 certification and a special token for their outstanding achievement as Top Sailors.

The National Sailing Academy also took a moment to recognize the dedicated teachers who accompany their students each sailing day: Ms. Archibald of Five Islands Primary was recognised for her role in bringing the biggest group to the NSA consistently, 27 students per week, Ms. Davis of Golden Grove Primary for being the longest serving teacher accompanying her students, since 2010, and Mr. Joseph of Green Bay Primary for consistently showing up with his students.

Inspirational speeches were delivered by Senior Instructor Ta’janica Thomas, Sailiability Volunteer & Sailor Ronald Greenaway & parent Gameal Joyce.

In addressing her students Ta’janica said, “It has been an honor to witness your journey—navigating wind, waves, and self-doubt to become resilient, team-minded, and self-assured individuals. Sailing has taught you lessons far beyond the water: patience, humility, trust, and the courage to adjust your sails when life changes course.”

A powerful address by Greenaway emphasized that sailing is not merely an extracurricular activity, but a sport, a career, and a lifelong passion. He sent out a call to everyone to come and be part of the programme in whatever way they are able, with their presence, skill or of course with money and emphasised the inclusiveness of the NSA. “Sailing is for everyone,” he shared, “no matter who you are or where you come from.” He lead the crowd in a rousing A-Z showcasing all of the personalities and people who can sail, ‘From Ambitious, to Able he lead us through the alphabet ending with Youthful and Zestful’.

Gameal Joyce, parent of one of the students, delivered a heartfelt speech on the value of sailing as a tool for opportunity and transformation. He emphasized how sailing can open doors to meaningful careers, even for those starting with limited means: “Even a cleaner on a boat can earn more than someone in a presumed high-ranking position. Sailing is not just for children in this area—it’s for everyone. Parents, get your children involved, keep pushing them, and support them to continue.” He went on to express his pride in witnessing such a diverse group of graduates, “Sitting and watching this graduation filled me with joy. As someone from the area, it’s truly rewarding to see students from all across the island being part of this program—not just those from around here.”

Another highlight of the evening was a heartfelt family reflection by the Flynn family, who shared their journey of learning, growth, and bonding through sailing. What began as a simple weekend activity soon became a transformative experience for them all: “Sailing has not just been an activity—it’s been a learning experience and a time for us to come together as a family. Our son, who was once afraid of the water, is now confidently sailing in a boat.”

They expressed deep gratitude to the National Sailing Academy and its instructors for the positive impact sailing has had on their lives.

Adding a musical touch to the night, Anayah Flynn, a student at Irene B. Williams Secondary School and a regular participant in Saturday Sailing, delivered a captivating steel pan performance, her first solo. A lively intermission followed with a delightful dance performance by students of Five Islands Primary School.

The National Sailing Academy extends its deepest gratitude to all who contributed to making the 2024–2025 school year a success. We look forward to an even more exciting 2025–2026 sailing year.

Summer Sailing Camp is now taking place until August 1st. To register your child, please call +1 (268) 562-8060 or WhatsApp us at +1 (268) 736-1345.

Antigua Sailing Week has paid tribute to Ms. Ethelyn Phillip, a beloved and influential figure whose decades-long dedication helped shape the regatta into one of the Caribbean’s most iconic sailing events.

It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Ms. Ethelyn Phillip, a foundational figure in the history of Antigua Sailing Week.

Raised in English Harbour, Antigua – the area that has now become the key sailing ground of the region, Ms. Phillip played an integral role in the early days of the regatta. The Final Prizegiving and the Lord Nelson’s Ball were managed by her and her team at Admiral’s Inn for decades. Her background in hospitality helped to shape the spirit and structure of what has become one of the Caribbean’s most celebrated sailing events.

Additionally, since the early 1970’s Ms. Phillip was responsible for the ASW Schools Art Competition, the events longest running community initiative by organizing, judging and planning the prize giving for the participants. She also used her charm to encourage yacht skippers to agree to host youth on board to tour their yachts – an awe inspiring experience for many over the years.

Her dedication to detail, warmth, and unwavering support were instrumental in building not only the event itself but the sense of community that surrounds it.

In 2020 she was the recipient of the Jan Santos award, which honours those who have shown exceptional dedication to Antigua Sailing Week.

Antigua Sailing Week owes much to Ms. Phillip’s passion for excellence and her belief in the power of sport to unite people across oceans and generations.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.

May her legacy continue to inspire.

The Antigua and Barbuda High Commission in London, in partnership with the Ministry of Sports, Education and the Creative Industries, proudly presents the 2025 Youth Cricket Tour – a tour designed to provide high-level cricket and cultural experience to some of the nation’s most promising young cricketers.

Departing Antigua on 6th July, 10 players will join 6 counterparts already in the United Kingdom on the annual Antigua Cricket Exchange programme, to participate in a two-week tour across England and Jersey (Channel Islands), returning home on 21st July. This initiative, now in its second year, reflects the Government’s commitment to youth development through sport, discipline and international exposure.

Led by Head Coach Winston Benjamin and supported by Assistant Coach David Joseph, Physiotherapist Amy Harris and Tour Manager Brent Scotland, the squad includes the following players: Brent Joseph Jr, Hosea Roberts, Jaylen Francis, Jared Jno Baptiste, Jayden Charles, J’Quan Athanaze, Kerique Mentore, Malique Walsh, Michael Greaves, Ozan Williams, Tarek Charles, Tayari Tonge, Vonde Bowers, William Pitman, Xanden Hobson and Xaveek Toppin.

The tour features seven competitive fixtures, including both T20 and 50 over matches:

1. Match 1(T20) – Antigua and Barbuda vs Rollins Cricket Academy – 9 July, 1:00 PM
2. Match 2 (50 overs) – Antigua and Barbuda vs West Herts CC – 10 July, 11:30 AM
3. Match 3 (T20) – Antigua and Barbuda vs Weybridge CC – 11 July, 5:30 PM
4. Match 4 (T20) – Antigua and Barbuda vs AEP All Stars Team – 14 July, 1:00 PM
5. Match 5 (50 overs) – Antigua and Barbuda vs Jersey – 16 July, 11:00 AM
6. Match 6 (50 overs) – Antigua and Barbuda vs Jersey – 18 July, 11:00 AM
7. Match 7 (T20) – Antigua and Barbuda vs ACE – 20 July, 12:00 PM

The fixtures against Jersey will serve as the host side’s preparations for Jersey’s ICC U19 World Cup Qualifier campaign.

During the tour, the young athletes will experience some of England’s cultural and educational attractions. Highlights include a West End theatre production, a visit to Chessington World of Adventures, and a church service at Westminster Abbey.

The Hon. Daryll Matthew, Minister of Education, Sports and Creative Industries, said: “ _This tour is a reflection of our ministry’s commitment to providing young athletes with opportunities that go beyond the cricket field. Now in its second year, this initiative will equip our players with international sporting experience, broaden their worldview, and build discipline, camaraderie and pride in representing Antigua and Barbuda”._

Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill, High Commissioner of Antigua and Barbuda to the United Kingdom, added: “ _While the players will hone their cricketing skills against competitive sides, they will also engage with the culture of the United Kingdom. We hope these experiences shape them not only as athletes, but as well-rounded ambassadors of our country who embrace excellence, spirituality and global citizenship. I warmly encourage the Antiguan and Barbudan diaspora across the UK to come out and support our young cricketers.”_

In preparation for the tour, players have been involved in intensive training on and off the field including sessions on etiquette and communications. Special thanks to Senator Shenella Govia, Aldo McCoy and Heather Samuel-Daley for their enthusiastic and generous assistance in making this tour possible and co-ordinating the team selection process.

The tour has benefited from support from the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (UK), Ambassador Ahmed Oleiwi, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Barbuda Affairs, Cricket Jersey, Harrow St. Mary’s Cricket Club and Keith Williams of the Antigua Exchange Programme. In collaboration with the High Commission, the Tourism Authority has jointly sponsored the official team kit which will be worn by the players during the tour.