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November 12 - Women's sport has received a major boost after both boxing and rugby sevens were voted onto the Commonwealth Games sports programme as optional sports while the other big winners were the triathlon mixed relay and beach volleyball.

The four sports were officially voted onto the sports programme by the 70 Commonwealth nations and territories in attendance here at the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) General Assembly following recommendations from the CGF Sports Review Committee.

The disciplines are all category two, optional sports rather than compulsory sports for Organising Committees but they could appear as early as the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Glasgow are set to consider adding the sports to their programme in the near future but it is perhaps more likely that they will appear at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games with the Australian city having shown a particular enthusiasm to include the mixed triathlon relay.

Prince Imran, the newly elected CGF President and chairman of the Sports Review Committee, claimed that he was very pleased with the new editions to the programme.

"It is fundamental that our sports programme continues to evolve in such a way as to sustain the Commonwealth Games pre-eminent status as a multi-sports event," he told insidethegames.

"Equity and equality are fundamental Commonwealth values; this is why it is natural and right that we keep our sports programme under constant review.

"This is not just to ensure its relevance, but to ensure we keep athletes – men and women, both abled and disabled, as the focus of everything we do."

There was approval for continuing the very positive on-going dialogue with the International Cricket Council (ICC) regarding bringing 20/20 cricket into the Commonwealth Games which the new CGF President said was a major priority for his organisation.

"Cricket is synonymous with the Commonwealth and it belongs in the Commonwealth Games," said Prince Imran, an Executive Board Member of the ICC from 1997 to 1999 and again from 2001 to 2008.

"The CGF will be talking to the ICC, and the cricketing authorities of Commonwealth countries, on the best route to bring 20/20 cricket into future editions.

"This would be enormously popular with both fans and cricketers.

"It would mean Caribbean countries could compete under their own flag.

"It would be a fantastic tournament."

The list of category one, compulsory sports remains unaltered with aquatics/swimming, athletics, badminton, men's boxing, hockey, lawn bowls, women's netball, men's rugby sevens, squash and weightlifting still in place.

The CGF's Sports Review Committee also recommended that work continue with International Federations and sports governing bodies to ensure sports were as attractive to competitors, spectators and broadcasters as possible.

For example, World Bowls will be encouraged to review the short form competition undertaken in the Australian League with a view to adopting this form at the Commonwealth Games.

In addition, it has recommended that the maximum number of entries per CGA per event for judo and wrestling will be set at two per weight category, so long as the total number of athletes entered from a CGA does not exceed the number of events available to bring the sports in line with weightlifting.

By Tom Degun in St Kitts & Nevis

Source: www.insidethegames.biz

London has been awarded the 2017 World Athletics Championships, in a decision that will boost hopes for a positive legacy for the sport and for the Olympic Stadium after next year's Games.

Following a vote of the 26 members of the International Association of Athletics Federations Council, London beat Doha to the prize.

Doha promised a championship budget of £150m and also pledged a new sponsor to bankroll various IAAF events to the tune of $29m (£18m), while guaranteeing to sell every ticket for every session of competition. The London bid matched Doha's promise of a £5m prize fund.

London's campaign had focused on the fact that it had the overwhelming support of athletes, could guarantee full stadia for every session and offered a better commercial return to sponsors and broadcasters. There was also a plea to Lamine Diack, the IAAF president, to "close the circle" after he voted in 2005 for London to host the 2012 Olympics on the basis that it would leave an athletics legacy for the capital.

The teenage sprinter Jodie Williams had earlier joined the London mayor, Boris Johnson, the London 2012 chairman and IAAF vice-president Lord Coe and the sports minister Hugh Robertson to drive those points home in a half-hour presentation. More than 100 athletes past and present had supported the London bid.

The decision will be seen as personal vindication for Coe, who was closely associated with the promise in Singapore in 2005, when bidding for the Olympics, that there would be a legacy for his sport from the Games. He has since fought hard to retain the track in the stadium. London's win could also boost his hopes of succeeding Diack as the next president of the IAAF, in 2015.

The decision will also come as a relief to ministers and Olympic Park Legacy Company officials, who are dealing with renewed questions over the future of the stadium in Stratford following the collapse of a deal with West Ham United and Newham council amid a slew of legal challenges. They will now proceed with plans to re-tender for the stadium early next month, secure in the knowledge that their promise to keep the track for 99 years has been bolstered by the fact that the world championships will use it in 2017.

For Robertson, Johnson and Coe – all of whom were involved in the 2018 football World Cup bid humiliation, in which England were beaten by Russia – the IAAF's decision to come to London in 2017 will bring a degree of catharsis. For UK Athletics, it will boost hopes that next year's Olympic Games can be the start of a golden period for the sport, with increased commercial appeal and profile.

By Owen Gibson

Source: www.guardian.co.uk

The Trinidad and Tobago national men's and women's sevens rugby teams travel to Barbados today for the North American and West Indies Rugby Association (NACRA) 7s rugby championships, which will be held on Saturday and Sunday at Garrison Savannah in Bridgetown.

Adam Frederick will captain the men's team, which also includes four senior team debutants.

James Phillip, Agboola Silverton, David Gokool and Fatima College sixth form student Tariq Cheekes will all be making their debut and chairman of selectors Curtis Nero said those inclusions were part of some tough decisions the T&T Rugby Football Union (TTRFU) selectors had to make.

The other TTRFU selectors are Stacey Cateau, Larry Mendez and Simone Andrews-Nero.

Nero said: "The teams selected for this weekend's NACRA 7s is a continuation of the TTRFU's focus on young players who display the discipline, dedication and desire required at the international level.

"I am encouraged by the fact that some of the established players have responded positively to our demand for greater commitment, discipline and fitness," Nero added.

"We had some tough choices to make...but we continue to have players moving up from the national Under-19 team. There is a clear vision for and style of play and attitude we aspire to in respect of the national teams. I expect the newcomers to grab their opportunities," he concluded.

The T&T men were drawn in Pool D along with the Bahamas, Guadeloupe and St Vincent and the Grenadines, while defending champions Guyana will campaign in Pool A with St Lucia, the British Virgin Islands and Curacao

The T&T women will compete in Pool B along with Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Maple Leafs, St Vincent and the Grenadines and Guadeloupe

For the women's competition, Maple Leaf and Pool A team USA South will be participating in the tournament for the first time, while Curacao are the only newcomers in the men's tournament.

T&T RUGBY SQUADS

T&T Men: Adam Frederick (captain), Wayne Kelly, Jonathan O'Connor, Kelson Figaro, Graeme Alkins, Joseph Quashie, James Phillip, Agboola Silverton, Kurt Quashie, David Gookool, Tariq Cheekes, Keishon Walker (Tobago) Larry Mendez (head coach), Peter Bacchus (assistant coach), Curtis Nero (manager)

T&T Women: Jenilee Limada, Latoya Edwards (captain), Alyesha Bruce, Juilana Straker, Tenisha Samuel, Kerdesiah Cooper, Taliah Wilson, Dalia Jordan-Brown, Nicolette Pantor, Ayana Skeete, Ebony Young, Kathleen Stephen, Simone Andrews-Nero (coach), Joy Rodney-Wilkes (physiotherapist)

DHL 2011 NACRA 7s Groups

Men's Tournament

Pool A: Guyana, St Lucia, BVI, Curacao

Pool B: Jamaica, Barbados, Martinique, Turks and Caicos

Pool C: Mexico, Cayman, Bermuda, USA South

Pool D: Bahamas, T&T, Guadeloupe, St Vincent and the Grenadines

Women's Tournament

Pool A: Guyana, St Lucia, Mexico, USA South, Barbados

Pool B: T&T, Jamaica, Cayman, Maple Leafs, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Guadeloupe

Source: www.trinidadexpress.com

Usain Bolt: "The track and field fraternity has lost a man who cared for the sport"

Howard Aris, the President of the Jamaica Athletics Administrative Association, died Thursday night. He was 75.

Aris, who had a long history of cardiovascular complications, was campaigning with Portia Simpson Miller, the president of the People's National Party, in Port Antonio.

According to a report in The Gleaner, Aris had complained of not feeling well and went into a car to sit. It was there that he was found unconscious. He was rushed to a nearby hospital where efforts to resuscitate him failed.

Aris had a distinguished career of over 30 years at the forefront of sports administration, sports development and planning, management and physical therapy in Jamaica.

He was a former head coach of Kingston College athletics teams including during their 14-year winning streak from 1962 to 1975 of the Jamaica Boys' Championship, and served as a coach and manager on Jamaica's national teams at the World Championships, Commonwealth Games, Pan-American Games and Olympics.

"Howard's passing will be a big loss to the leadership of track and field in Jamaica," Olivia Grange, Jamaica's sports minister, said in a statement. "But not only will his skills, knowledge and administrative capabilities be lost to us but the entire world of track and field will be poorer for his passing. Another great son of Jamaican sports has made his departure."

Among those offering their condolences via social media was world-record-holder Usain Bolt, who Tweeted: "Saddened at the passing of the JAAA President, Mr. Howard Aris... The track and field fraternity has lost a man who cared for the sport," and added, "Always gave me credible advice..May you soul rest in peace."

Source: www.universalsports.com

National forward Alanna Lewis ran riot as she helped herself to a beaver-trick in leading Paragon to a 5-0 blowout of Shandy Carib Magnolias in their final T&T Hockey Board’s National Indoor Women’s Championship Division group match at the Woodbrook Youth Centre, Hamilton Holder Street, Woodbrook, on Wednesday. Lewis netted as early as the second minute followed by items in the 14th, 15th and 18th minute while Zene Henry added the other in the 28th minute. With the win, Paragon ended its five match schedule with 12 points, one behind defending champion Ventures, followed by Notre Dame with seven and Harvard Maritime Checkers, the other semifinal qualifier, with six points. Checkers have the same point total as Magnolias but with a superior goal-difference. Last night in the final-four matches, Ventures came up against Checkers and Paragon played the Dames. In the Men’s Open Division, Notre Dame also sealed a last-four spot despite losing its final match to reigning champion, Petrotrin 7-1.

The Dames who ended with four points from five matches went into the encounter needing to avoid defeat by 16 goals, which they did to finish ahead of Corona Fatima on goal-difference. Earlier on, Paragon whipped Fatima 5-3 to end with nine points in third spot, three behind the Oilmen, while Queen’s Park topped the table with a maximum 15 points. In last night’s semifinal round, the Parkites faced Notre Dame while Paragon battled Petrotrin for places in tonight’s title match. On Tuesday night, Raphael Govia scored a beaver-trick as Queen’s Park crushed Petrotrin 11-0 to inch ahead in the race for the Mixed Veterans Division title. The victory improves the Parkites to ten points from four matches, the same as Notre Dame, ahead of last night’s final round of matches. The Dames came up against Fatima needing a win to have a chance of lifting the title as they trail the Parkites on goal-difference. This while Parkites tangled with Malvern in a match which had ten minutes left to be completed after their initial meeting on October 31was stopped due to bad weather, with the Tragarete Road team ahead 3-0.

National Indoor Hockey Championship Results

Wednesday:
Women’s Open:
Paragon 5 (Alanna Lewis 2nd, 14th, 15th, 18th, Zene Henry 28th) vs Magnolias 0.
Notre Dame 3 (Tamara De Nobriga 5th, Stephanie Whiteman 22nd, Curlyne Wynn 26th) vs Checkers 2 (Patrice Padmore 14th, Brittney Hingh 27th).

Men’s Open:
Paragon 5 (Akim Toussaint 15th, 29th, Syl Sinnette 2nd, Kiel Murray 7th, Richard Roach 24th) vs Fatima 3 (Ishmael Campbell 22nd, 30th, Jose Gonzales 21st).
Petrotrin 7 (Atiba Whittington 3, Dwain Quan Chan 2, Kern Chan Sue, Triston Grant) vs Notre Dame 1 (Tobias Ottley).

Mixed Veterans:
Fatima 3 (Mark Nieves, Derek Lee, Colin Young) vs Malvern 2 (Anthony Marcano, Charles Carter).

Tuesday
Women’s Open
Ventures 4 (Yesenia Luces 2, Cristina Abreu 2) vs Paragon 3 (Danielle Thompson, Kristin Thompson, Avion Ashton).
Magnolias 2 (Brianna Govia, Elise Olton) vs Notre Dame 0

Men’s Open
Petrotrin 8 (Triston Grant 2, Solomon Eccles 2, Atiba Whittington 2, Jason Allan, Jonathan Williams) vs Fatima 0
QPCC 16 (Evan Piers-Farrell 5, Nicholas Camacho 3, Stefan Mouttet 2, Shawn Lee Quay 2, Mark Ayen, Dominic Young, Khadeem Fortune, Kade Lue Sue) vs Shape 4 (Gerron Frank 2, Lyndell Byer, Hakeem Badal)

Mixed Veterans
QPCC 11 (Raphael Govia 4, Nicholas Wren 3, Gary Chin 2, Derek Daniel, Azad Ali) vs Petrotrin 0

Current standings:
Men’s Open:
Teams    P    W    D    L    F    A    Pts
QPCC    5    5    0    0    39    13    15
Petrotrin    5    4    0    1    35    9    12
Paragon    5    3    0    2    24    19    9
Notre Dame    5    1    1    3    17    23    4
Fatima    5    1    1    3    11    27    4
Shape    5    0    0    5    10    45    0

Women’s Open:
Ventures    5    4    1    0    16    12    13
Paragon    5    4    0    1    22    11    12
Notre Dame    5    2    1    2    15    15    7
Checkers    5    2    0    3    11    8    6
Magnolias    5    2    0    3    7    12    6
Malvern    5    0    0    5    8    22    0

Mixed Veterans:
QPCC    4    3    1    0    25    8    10
Notre Dame    4    3    1    0    22    9    10
Carib    5    2    1    2    20    15    7
Fatima    4    2    1    1    15    9    7
Malvern    4    1    0    3    12    15    3
Petrotrin    5    0    0    5    10    48    0

By Nigel Simon

Source: www.guardian.co.tt

11 November 2011, 18:00 AST – Sri Lanka will continue the large-scale investment set-out in its ‘life-changing’ Hambantota 2018 bid to host the 2018 Commonwealth Games, despite losing out to Australia’s Gold Coast in the crucial vote on the Caribbean island of St Kitts this evening.

Hambantota 2018 bid leaders congratulated the Gold Coast for winning a “truly sporting contest” and wished them “every success for 2018.”

In what the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) called one of the most exciting contests in its history, Hambantota 2018 was unable to tip the balance in its favour.  But for the unified nation and its 20 million people the process of bidding for the Games itself will see history in the making.

On hearing the decision Ajith Nivard Cabraal, Hambantota 2018 Organising Committee Co-Chair, said: “It is disappointing of course that we will not see a Hambantota Games in 2018.  But we have said all along that bidding for these prestigious Games is a key part of an exciting and progressive journey in Sri Lanka.  Together we have embarked on a new era.  And we will make good our promise to rejuvenate the region regardless of this outcome.  We are talking about something transformational; something that will help build a better tomorrow for all our people.”

Cabraal said that their plans had been described by the CGF as ‘visionary, exciting and unique’ and a blueprint for other emerging and developing Commonwealth nations to follow.  They will still see Hambantota become one of five metro cities in Sri Lanka – a strategic hub for economic development, tourism growth and regeneration initiatives.  It will be home to a thriving international business and investment centre with a focus on education and sport – the latter being one of the identified growth drivers for the country.  The city’s population is forecast to reach 1.2 million by 2018, with some eight million living within 2.5 hours drive.

Sri Lanka’s proud population – some 20 million – had been hoping for a positive decision as the news broke at 03:30 in the morning IST.   It follows an electronic vote on the penultimate day of the CGF general assembly in which they hoped the numbers allocated were a sign of the stars aligning.  The fast-developing coastal city in the south of ‘the island jewel of the Indian Ocean’ was #9 – the number of countries to have hosted the Games to-date and to which Hambantota 2018 hoped to add – whilst the Gold Coast was given #4 – the amount of times Australia has itself already hosted the Games.

The decision was announced by outgoing CGF President Mike Fennell at 18:00 local time.  It was his last official act as CGF President after 17 years in the role, handing over to HRH Prince Tunku Imran of Malaysia.  Fennell had previously said that he felt very happy that the Commonwealth Games had reached a stage where it could attract “two superb bids like these.”

Cabraal said.  “I must add that I am proud that the Gold Coast and ourselves have given Mike a candidature contest befitting of his final act as CGF President.  Such a strong and exciting contest shows just how far the Commonwealth Games has come under his reign.”

Source: www.hambantota2018.com

CYCLIST, Njjisane Phillip has earned an essential 100 points toward his London 2012 Olympic qualification campaign.

Phillip obtained the necessary points after his eighth place ride at the UCI Track Cycling World Cup in Astana, Kazakhstan last week.

The result in Astana sent Phillip’s overall Olympic tally to 310 points. This accomplishment also saw Phillip maintain his impressive world number five rank in the Men’s Individual Sprint. In addition, Phillip’s result assisted him to leap into pole position in the Pan American region.

Phillip is now 20 points ahead of Hersony Canelon of Venezuela and 16 points behind world record holder and current European champion, Kevin Sireau of France.

The Beacon rider’s performance in Astana has enhanced his chances of sealing a spot for Trinidad and Tobago in the Olympic cycling event. Presently, there are only two positions available for the Pan American region. However, the top local cyclist is currently ahead of the other Pan American competitors.

To stay above all Pan American riders, Phillip must have outstanding performances over the next few months at World Cups in Cali (Colombia), Beijing (China), London (England), the Pan American Cycling Championships (Argentina) and the World Championships in Melbourne (Australia).

The 100 points he obtained in Astana have become more valuable since the remaining COPACI (Pan American Cycling Federation) members Canelon, Angel Pulgar (Venezuela), Michael Blatchford (US), Kevin Mansker (US), Joseph Veloce (Canada), Flavio Cipriano (Brazil), Dieferson Forges (Brazil), Romero (Colombia) only received 10 points each for their London 2012 bid.

The remaining Pan American cyclists in the top 20 individual list are Canelon (6th 290pts), Jimmy Watkins (15th 155pts) and Fabian Hernando (17th 143pts).



Phillip’s forthcoming Olympic qualification meets:

World Cup II - Santiago de Cali, Colombia (1st-3rd December)

World Cup III - Beijing, China (13th-15th January 2012)

World Cup IV - London, England (17-19th February 2012)

Pan American Cycling Championships - Mar del Plata, Argentina (5-9th March, 2012)

World Championships - Melbourne, Australia (4-8th April, 2012)

By Jonathan Ramnanansingh

Source: www.newsday.co.tt

Tragically, perhaps inevitably, the immemorial antipathy existing between Israel and the Arab world has tumbled into the unifying arena of chess. Lovers of the sport must feel a deep sense of dismay over the recent incident at the 15-year-old Corsican Circuit when GM Ghaem Maghami of Iran refused adamantly to play against his fourth round opponent FM Ehud Shachar of Israel.  

The Iranian, in fact, showed little regard for the protocol of the game by demanding a re-pairing. The organisers refused, of course, and the game was forfeited. As a result, the chess playing world may well ask in anguish, will this kind of relentless animosity now keep repeating itself whenever players from these two countries meet in open competition?

It is deeply depressing to think that this centuries old sport, renowned for the camaraderie and unity it fosters at all levels, will now be sullied by the politics of hate. This sour episode, in fact, could hardly have occurred at a more encouraging example of the game’s positive attributes. The 15th edition of the Corsican Circuit was staged on an island that breaks the world record for per capita number of chess players; 5,375 active participants in a population of 300,000.

In spite of difficult economic circumstances, organisers of the October event were able to maintain the same level of prizes (95,000 euros) as before, having mobilised a total of 124 sponsors! The authorities in T&T should take note. According to a Chessbase report, hundreds of young people participate in this annual festive event “which this year welcomed more than 800 friends from all the five continents.”

As far as Double Rooks can see, this Corsican chess festival ideally exemplifies the admirable motto of the world chess body, “gens una sumus” which means “we are one people.”  That the Iranians can uncaringly dismiss the guiding principle of FIDE and the spirit of brotherhood informing the Corsican event to carry on their policy of hate is sad indeed.

It is not that they were taken unawares. Chief organiser and sponsor of the Circuit, Leonard Battesti, pointed out that the presence of five Israeli players in the tournament was known to all participants well in advance. “Their acceptance honours our competition as does the presence of Iranian players and those from about thirty other nationalities,” he observed. Battesti said they were developing in Corsica “an awareness of the positive aspects of the chess sport on our youth.” Being complicit to any form of segregation would be unworthy, he added, “and in total contradiction with the foundations of our sporting activities.”

Double Rooks is well aware of the immemorial animosity existing between these two peoples and the dismal failure of repeated international attempts to bring peace between them. Still, it is tragic that the absolutely neutral world of sport, particularly chess, should now become an extended war zone in this visceral and intractable conflict. It seems to DR that organisers of international tournaments must now carefully examine implications of this Iranian refusal. How far will it go?

Must special pairing arrangements now be made to ensure that such a disruptive incident is not repeated?  After an intensive investigation, ChessBase, in an editorial comment, noted: “It is clear that particularly in Iran, sports and politics are more closely intertwined than in any other country”.

The on-line station pointed out that “Iran’s national Olympic committee has given the official order that none of its athletes are to compete against athletes of the Zionist regime—namely Israel.” ChessBase also observed that in Europe certain countries such as Spain, Ukraine and Romania have cancelled football matches in Iran to protest that country’s policy against Israel, and some politicians have called for banning Iran from the World Soccer Cup.

Whatever its anti-Israel policies may be, Iran should not be allowed to impose it on international sporting events animated by the spirit of togetherness and friendly competition. Also, if its hatred for the “zionist regime” is so overwhelming, then it should be consistent and not participate in any event that includes the Israelis. That is DR’s view. Here is a sampling of other commentaries: David Hertz, Paris, France: This is so sad, especially that a chessplayer, a human being for that matter, is more interested in playing politics than the game he purportedly came to Corsica to play in the first place.

Vaughn Dumas, Pretoria, South Africa: I think that if you have this kind of conviction, then you should also accept whatever is coming your way. The Iranian should not just forfeit the game but the whole tournament.

By Carl Jacob

Source: www.guardian.co.tt

National swimmer and Fatima College student Dylan Carter, broke two meet records at the Beacon Insurance Secondary Schools’ Swim Meet at the Centre of Excellence in Macoya on Sunday. Carter easily led his school to victory, amassing more individual points (50.5) than any other competitor on the day. The meet saw more than 500 participants compete from over 50 schools across the country.

Carter earned himself the honour of being named the top male competitive performer, breaking records in the 13-14 competitive boys’ 50m backstroke (26.88) and freestyle (24.01) events. He also won the 50m butterfly event in his age group.

Other top honours were awarded to Maya Cozier of Holy Name Convent (top non-competitive female performer, 33 points), Kegan Ellis of Presentation Boys’ College, San Fernando (top non-competitive male performer, 34 points), and Jewel Mulrain of St George’s College (top competitive female performer, 34 points).

There were two additional record breaking swims on the day. The first came from national swimmer and St. Mary’s College student, Jonathan Cabral, in the 15 years & over competitive boys’ 50m breaststroke (30.55) and from Fatima College student, James Pantin, in the 13-14 non-competitive boys’ 25m freestyle event (12.57).

At the end of the meet, Fatima College emerged as male champions, St Joseph’s Convent Port of Spain were the female champions, an taking the co-ed division title was St George’s College.

Individual winners:

12& Under Girls – Non-competitive

1. Arianne Baptiste-St. Joseph’s Convent, St Joseph

2. Renee Stodda. Providence Girls’

3. Regyna Marie Joab-St. Joseph’s Convent, St Joseph

12&Under Boys – Non-competitive

1. Adam Alexis-Fatima College

2. Daniel We.Fatima College

3. Icaro Ramos-Fatima College

13-14 Girls - Non-competitive

1. Rejanna Wallace-Scarborough Secondary School

2. Todah Joy De Matas – St. Joseph’s Convent, St. Joseph

3. Jamarah Sutherland, St. Joseph’s Convent, San Fernando

13-14 Boys – Non-competitive

1. Jonathan Owen – Trinity College East

2. (tie) Darion Dennis – St. George’s College Bradley Thomas-Bishop’s High School Tobago

15&over Girls – Non-competitive

1. Maya Cozier – Holy Name Convent

2. Danae Johnson – St Joseph’s Convent, St Joseph

3. Whitney McKenzie – St. Joseph’s Convent, Port of Spain

15&over Boys – Non-competitive

1. Kegan Ellis-Presentation Boys’ College, San Fernando

2. Akil Baptiste - St. Anthony’s College

3. (tie) Mikail Ellis – Presentation Boys’ College, San Fernando, Shane Corbie – Fatima College

12&Under Girls Competitive

1. Jewel Mulrain – St George’s College

2. Shania David – St Augustine Girls’ High School

3. Arielle Downes – St Joseph’s Convent, St Joseph

12&Under Boys Competitive

1. Aaron Acres – Trinity College East

2. Derelle Prescott – Point Fortin East Secondary

3. Kyle Caracciolo – St. Mary’s College

13-14 Girls – Competitive

1. Kristin Julien –St. Stephen’s College

2. Bryanna Duncan – Bishop’s Anstey High School East

3. Rebekah Mendoza – Holy Faith Convent, Penal

13-14 Boys Competitive

1. Dylan Carter – Fatima College

2. Jeron O’Brien – Hillview College

3. Christopher Greene – Southern Community College

15&Over Girls Competitive

1. Jenique Duval - Holy Name Convent

2. Marie Marcano – Bishops’ Anstey High School East

3. Dayna Gillette-St. Joseph’s Convent, Port of Spain

15&Over Boys Competitive

1. Jonathan Cabral-St. Mary’s College

2. Joshua Romany – Fatima College

3. Jonathan Gillette – St. Mary’s College

School awards:

Best Central School – St. Georges College Best East School – St Joseph’s Convent, St Joseph

Best North School – Fatima College

Best South School – Presentation Boys’ College, San Fernando Best Tobago School – Bishops High School Tobago Best Non-Competitive Girls’ Team – St Joseph’s Convent, St Joseph Best Competitive Girls’ Team – St. Augustine Girls’ High School

Best Non-Competitive Boys’ Team- Fatima College Best Competitive Boys’ Team – St. Mary’s College

Overall School Winners

(Competitive and Non-competitive teams combined)

Girls

1. St Joseph's Convent, Port of Spain - 210 points

2. St Joseph’s Convent, St. Joseph - 203 points

3. Holy Name Convent - 156.50 points

Co-ed

1. St. George’s College - 120 points

2. Bishops High School Tobago - 84 points

3. St Augustine Secondary School - 55 points

Boys

1. Fatima College - 339 points

2. St Mary’s College - 273.5 points

3. Presentation Boys’ College, San Fernando - 176.5 points

Source: www.guardian.co.tt

TT Olympic medallist George Bovell III shows us how he spent his first day back in training after a car crash a few months ago...

Click link below to view video

http://vimeo.com/28628754

First day of the buildup towards London 2012. Easing into it with a leisurely open water swim.

Defending girls champions Vos government are looking to continue their winning streak after a 1-0 win over Sister road Anglican Vos who will take a trip across to the sister island to take on Mason Hall government at the Dwight Yorke stadium. Mason Hall are looking to bounce back after a 3-0 defeat from Montgomery Govt. Dinsley Anglican will be on the hunt for their first win when they face Cumana Anglican tomorrow at the Larry Gomes stadium. Cumana are on the hunt for their second win after defeating Vance River 1-0. Guyaguayare who were defeated 3-1 on penalties against La Horquetta will come up against last years runners up St Agnes Anglican at the Manny Ramjohn, St Agnes will be looking to continue there winning ways after defeating Londenville 2-0

In the last and final girls encounter Montgomery Government who trashed their neighbours Mason Hall 3-0 will face St David’s  at the Marvin Lee stadium. Defending boys champions Arima North Government will meet neighbours Valencia South Government at the Larry Gomes Stadium. Arima, who trashed Mathura Government 6-1 will have a tough battle against Valencia south who are also coming off a 2-1 victory against Edinburgh Govt. Bon Accord will face Siparia Boys at the Marvin Lee Stadium, Macoya. Both teams are coming off 2-0 and 3-0 wins respectively. Carenage Boys will meet Wim Anglican at the Dwight Yorke stadium on Thursday. Both teams were victorious on their last two encounters. Last years runners up Santa Flora will strive to continue their winning ways when the see Eastern Boys Government at the Manny Ramjohn Stadium, Macoya.

TODAY’S FIXTURES

Girls

Mason Hall v Vos Govt

(Dwight Yorke stadium)

Dinsley Trinity v Cumana Anglican (Larry Gomes Stadium )

Guaya RC v St Agnes Anglican (Manny Ramjohn)

Montgomery v St David’s RC (Marvin Lee Stadium)

Boys

Valencia South v Arima Boys  RC (Larry Gomes)

Bon Accord Govt v Siparia Boys RC (Marvin Lee)

Eastern Boys v Santa Flora

 (Manny Ramjohn)

Tomorrow

Girls

Mason Hall v Vos Govt

(Dwight Yorke stadium)

Boys

Carenage Boys v Whim Anglican (Dwight Yorke stadium)

Source: www.guardian.co.tt

National forward Yesenia Luces scored on either side of the half as defending champion Ventures edged rival Shandy Carib Magnolias 3-2 to cement its semifinal spot in the T&T Hockey Board’s National Indoor Championship’s Women’s Open Division at the Woodbrook Youth Centre, Hamilton-Holder Street, Woodbrook, on Monday night.  Luces opened the scoring as early as the second minute for a 1-0 lead at the half. Within two minutes of the restart, Ventures doubled its lead via former national captain Cristina Abreu. However, Michelle Leotaud pulled one back for Magnolias in the 23rd minute of the keenly-contested encounter. Luces and her Ventures team-mates then took advantage of the suspension of Magnolias captain Mika Ella Tang, by umpire N’Ku Davis to regain a two-goal cushion in the 26th minute.

With two minutes left in the match, Elise Olton also took advantage of the suspension of Abreu to bring Magnolias to within a goal, but that was as close as it got as Ventures held on for the win to push its points tally to ten from four matches prior to its top-of-the table clash with second placed Paragon last night. Paragon, second on the five-team table with maximum nine points from three matches, used goals from Thompson-sisters, Danielle, in the eighth and T&T internationl Kristin, seven minutes later to blank Harvard Maritime Checkers, 2-0. Despite the loss, Checkers stayed third with six points from four matches, but must beat fourth placed Notre Dame (four points from three matches) to be certain of a top four finish and a place in tomorrow’s semifinal. In the Men’s Open Division, Paragon and Corona Fatima both won to stay in contention for a semifinal spot.

Akim Toussaint, Cogie Butler and Kiel Murray scored two goals each for Paragon in its 6-3 triumph over Notre Dame to improve to six points from four matches, the same as defending champion Petrotrin which has a match in hand and six behind Queen’s Park which has one match left to complete its five-match round-robin campaign ahead of the tomorrow’s semifinals. Fatima used goals from four different players to whip Shape 4-1 to join Notre Dame on four points, however, the latter has played a match more. In the Mixed Veterans Division, guest player and recent Pan American Games Men’s 50m Air Pistol silver medal winner Roger Daniel registered a hat-trick for Notre Dame in a 6-3 beating of Malvern. The Dames now have ten points from four matches, three more than Queen’s Park and Carib. But while the Dames have a match to play and Queen’s Park, two, Carib has completed its five-match schedule.

National Indoor Hockey Championship Results

Monday

Women’s Open

Ventures 3 (Yesenia Luces 2nd, 26th, Cristina Abreu 17th) vs Magnolias 2 (Michelle Leotaud 23rd, Elise Olton 28th).

Paragon 2 (Danielle Thompson 8th, Kristin Thompson 15th) vs Checkers 0

Men’s Open

Paragon 6 (Akim Toussaint 2nd, 7th, Cogie Butler 4th, 19th, Kiel Murray 15th, 24th) vs Notre Dame 3 (Keith De Pezia 25th, 28th, Tobias Ottley 17th).

Fatima 4 (Jordan Vieira 7th, Derek Lee 16th, Ishmael Campbell 27th, Colin Young 30th) vs Shape 1 (Gerron Frank 27th)

Mixed Veterans

Notre Dame 6 (Roger Daniel 7th, 26th, 30th, Sean Olton 27th, Leon Ramdeen 15th, Selwyn King 18th) vs Malvern 3 (Charles Carter 5th, Leroy Sookdeo 10th, Sean Alexander 21st)

Schools hockey today at Woodbrook

Meanwhile, the annual National Secondary Schools Indoor Hockey (Under-20) Tournament takes place today at the Woodbrook Youth Centre, Hamilton-Holder, Woodbrook Facility from 8 am to 4 pm.

Source: www.guardian.co.tt

Defending champion Sandhya Moll, ably retained her title when she won the High League class of the third leg of the T&T Equestrian Association’s (T&TEA) Super League Competition on October 30. The league was held at the international-level show grounds at Hidden Valley Stables, Santa Cruz. The League consists of two rounds of jumping with the faults of both rounds being added to give the rider a final score. If there is an equality of faults, the time in the second round is used to break the tie. There are three levels of competition and numerous jumps were set at the maximum height however, this did not daunt the riders who proved their worth with many having clear rounds or just four-fault rounds. The competition was keen in the High League class, with athletes jumping heights of 1.10 metres. Moll rode her way to victory on her horse “Majestic Seven” with a total of four faults in this class.

She was followed by Steven Degheldere who rode in second on his horse “A Great Team.” Degheldere finished with two impressive clear rounds (no knock-downs), but unfortunately had a total of 6 time-faults. Melissa Inglefield took the third spot on “Waiting at the Front” with a total of 8 faults, from just one knock-down in each round. Meanwhile in the Mid-League class, Mariel Lanser easily guided her horse “Rhapsody” to first place with two very impressive clear rounds. However, competition for the remaining spots was very stiff as the second, third and fourth positions in this class were keenly contested. Charlotte Morrison on “Alfie Meh Boy”, Chelsea Thomas on “Zimbu” and Adelle Stollmeyer on “Amigo Mio” all had one clear round and one round with four faults. In the end, the combined times on their rounds were used to determine their final positions.

Less than two seconds separated the second and third places which were taken by Thomas (71.997) and Stollmeyer (72.858) respectively. Morrison trailed in fourth with 73.940. The Low-League class had both junior and senior entrants, and Hadley Rahael riding “Zeus” placed first among the juniors, and first place in the seniors went to Inglefield on “Nobill LX.” The T&TEA will be hosting the fourth and final leg of the league on December 3 as well as the Caribbean Equestrian Association’s Dressage Challenge on November 27, both at the same venue.

Source: www.guardian.co.tt

James Phillip, Agboola Silverton, Tariq Cheekes and David Gokool have all been selected to make their debut for T&T in the DHL North America Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) Men’s and Women’s Rugby Sevens Tournament. The prestigious event will kick off at Garrison Savannah, Bridgetown, Barbados on Saturday. Three women: Talieh Wilson, Alyesha Bruce and Kathleen Stephen were also selected to debut in the women’s national sevens team. Stag Trinidad Northern player, Adam Frederick will remain with the captain’s armband, while team regulars, Jonathan O’Connor, Graeme Alkins and Joseph Quashie has also been selected to appear in the two-day tournament.

The squad which ranges from players 18 years to veterans, was described by chairman of selectors Curtis Nero as a “continuation of the T&T Rugby Football Union’s (TTRFU) focus on players who display the discipline, dedication and desire required at the international level.” “I am encouraged by the fact that some of the established players have responded positively to our demand for greater commitment, discipline and fitness,” said Nero. He said that some of the choices were difficult to make as several players remain unfit due to injuries. Nero suggested that while the preparation programme in the run up to the 2016 Rio de Janiero Olympic Games, continues to “bear fruit” in terms of the challenge of the younger players filling the spot of the their more experienced colleagues, a balance between youth and experienced players must be established.

He said that some of the choices were difficult to make as several players remain unfit due to injuries. T&T sevens debutantes Cheekes and Gokool played a significant part in the Harvard set-up which saw both the Championship and under-19 teams finish runners up in the respective divisions. Nero said that he expects the young players to “grab their opportunities.” The teams have been selected by the committee consisting of Nero, Stacey Cateau and head coaches of the respective clubs in the Championship and Senior divisions. The men’s team is placed in Pool D along with Guadeloupe and St Vincent and the Grenadines. Bahamas, which was also seeded in the group has withdrawn from the tournament. The women’s team will face Cayman Islands, Maple Leafs, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Guadeloupe in Pool B. Defending champions and five time winners of the men’s championship, Guyana, are in Group A with the British Virgin Islands, St Lucia and Curacao. The teams will leave on Friday and return on Monday.

Players

Women's Team: Latoya Edwards(Aranguez Romans captain), Jenilee Limada(Royalians), Alyesha Bruce (Royalians), Juilana Straker (unattached), Tenisha Samuel (Royalians), Kerdesiah Cooper (Royalians), Taliah Wilson (Royalians), Dalia Jordan-Brown (Royalians), Nicolette Pantor (Aranguez Romans), Ayana Skeete (Royalians), Ebony Young (Royalians) and Kathleen Stephen (Aranguez Romans). Simone Andrews-Nero (Coach). Joy Rodney-Wilkes (physiotherapist)

Men’s Team: Adam Frederick (captain, Northern) Wayne Kelly (Harvard), Jonathan O'Connor (Northern), Kelson Figaro (Royalians), Graeme Alkins (Caribs), Joseph Quashie (Harvard), James Phillip (Royalians), Agboola Silverton (Rainbow), Kurt Quashie (Harvard), David Gookool (Harvard), Tariq Cheekes (Harvard), Keishon Walker(Tobago). Larry Mendez (head coach), Peter Bacchus(asst coach) and Curtis Nero(team manager).

Men's Pool A:  Guyana, St Lucia, British Virgin Islands and Curacao

Men's Pool B: Jamaica, Barbados, Martinique and Turks and Caicos

Men's Pool C: Mexico, Cayman, Bermuda and USA South

Men's Pool D: Bahamas, Trinidad & Tobago, Guadeloupe and St Vincent and the Grenadines

Women's Pool A:  Guyana, St Lucia, Mexico, USA South and Barbados

Women's Pool B: T&T, Jamaica, Cayman, Maple Leafs, St Vincent and the Grenadines and Guadeloupe.

Source: www.guardian.co.tt

Youth Training Centre (YTC) grabbed the Trinidad and Tobago Rugby Football Union (TTRFU) Under-19 title on the weekend without kicking a ball.

Harvard Sports Club had the chance to take the title on Sunday when they faced Caribs at the Queen's Park Savannah, Port of Spain, but lost 10-5 to their opponents.

Although Harvard drew level on 27 points with YTC—Harvard got a single bonus point for losing to Caribs within seven points—YTC were awarded the title thanks to a superior goal difference.

Harvard did well to hold Caribs to a 5-5 half-time score despite strong pressure from their opponents throughout the match. In the opening exchanges they were virtually pinned behind the 22-metre line and when they did come forward, met a strong defence.

Eventually, Al Hakiymu Stewart broke the deadlock for Caribs in the 15th minute, but the try went unconverted. But ten minutes later Harvard's Cory Phillip breached the Caribs backline to level proceedings.

Jerome Richardson streaked home to score the winning try for Caribs just after the restart, which again Caribs failed to convert.

The result means that Caribs (25 points) finish third, ahead of Rainbow Sports and Cultural Club (fourth, 21) and Royalians (fifth).

Source: www.trinidadexpress.com

In announcing the  men and women 7s rugby teams that will represent T&T at this year's North America and Caribbean(NACRA) sevens rugby championship in Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago Rugby Football Union(TTRFU) chairman of the selectors; Curtis Nero, said the T&T men and women 7s rugby teams selected for this weekend's NACRA 7s is a continuation of the TTRFU's focus on young players who  display the discipline, dedication  and desire required at the international level.
While noting that the TTRFU's 2016 Rio de Janiero Olympic Games pathway programme continues to "bear fruit" as there were a number of talented young players pressing the more established senior national players. Nero however said the selectors had to strike a balance between the young and experienced players.
"I am encouraged by the fact that some of the established players  have responded positively to our demand for  greater committment , discipline and fitness . We had some tough choices to make as there were a couple players who could not be considered due to injuries and the Kendall Mootoo situation.  But we continue to have players moving up from the national under 19 team. There is  a clear vision for, and style of play and attitude  we aspire to in respect of the national teams. We must have the courage to stay the course. I expect the newcomers  to grab their opportunities."
In the men's team  James Phillip, Agboola Silverton and Fatima College Form Six student- Tariq Cheekes, and David Gookool will be making their national senior 7s debut. The women's team includes debutants Talieh Wilson, Alyesha Bruce and Kathleen Stephen.
The TTRFU selection committee is Curtis Nero (chairman), Stacey Cateau, and the head coaches for the respective teams.

T&T men's team:
Adam Frederick(captain)Wayne Kelly, Jonathan O'Connor, Kelson Figaro, Graeme Alkins, Joseph Quashie, James Phillip, Agboola Silverton, Kurt Quashie, David Gookool, Tariq Cheekes, Keishon Walker(Tobago ). Larry Mendez(Head coach), Peter Bacchus(Asst. Coach) and Curtis Nero(Team Manager).

T&T Women's Team:
Jenilee Limada,Latoya Edwards(captain), Alyesha Bruce, Juilana Straker, Tenisha Samuel, Kerdesiah Cooper, Taliah Wilson, Dalia Jordan-Brown, Nicolette Pantor, Ayana Skeete, Ebony Young and Kathleen Stephen.Simone Andrews-Nero(Coach) . Joy Rodney-Wilkes (Physiotherapist)

The T&T teams will depart on Friday for Barbados and return home on Monday 14 November.
 
Editors Note:
DHL have been named as the lead and title sponsor of the 2011 North America and Caribbean Rugby Association(NACRA) Sevens . The tournament,  takes place in Bridgetown, Barbados on November 12th & 13th 2011 and features for the first time, representation from all of NACRA's Members.
Curacao will be fielding a team in the NACRA Sevens for the first time and the tournament sees the return of USA South.
Men's Pool A: Guyana, St Lucia, BVI, Curacao
Men's Pool B: Jamaica, Barbados, Martinique, Turks & Caicos
Men's Pool C: Mexico, Cayman, Bermuda, USA South
Men's Pool D: Bahamas, Trinidad & Tobago, Guadeloupe, St Vincent & The Grenadines

In the Women's tournament  Maple Leafs, a Canadian representative team and USA South  are participating in the tournament for the 1st time
Women's Pool A: Guyana, St Lucia, Mexico, USA South, Barbados
Women's Pool B: T&T, Jamaica, Cayman, Maple Leafs, St Vincent & The Grenadines, Guadeloupe

National duo, Solomon Eccles and Atiba Whittington both scored hat-tricks as defending champion Petrotrin rebounbed from a 4-3 loss to Queen’s Park to hammer Paragon 8-2 in a key T&T Hockey Board  Indoor Championship’s Men’s Open Division clash at the Woodbrook Youth Centre, Hamilton-Holder Street, Woodbrook, on Sunday night. Fellow national player Dwain Quan Chan added a double for the Oilmen while Paragon got a pair of goals from its own national standout Akim Toussaint.

With the win, the Oilmen improved to six points from three matches, in second spot, six adrift of unbeaten leader Queen’s Park which has maximum 12 points after four matches. Today, the Parkites close off their round-robin play against winless Shape, but are already assured of the top seeding going intoThursday’s semifinal round. With the loss, Paragon stayed fourth on the table with three points from three matches, one behind Notre Dame while Fatima has one point from two matches.

In the Women’s Open Division, Harvard Maritime Checkers picked up three valuable points without breaking a sweat after Malvern defaulted to end without a point from its five matches. The win carried Checkers to six points after three matches on the six-team table, the same as Paragon which has a match in hand and one behind defending champion Ventures. Notre Dame is next with four points from three matches while Shandy Carib Magnolias has three points after two matches. In the Mixed Veterans category, both Carib and Queen’s Park won to improve to seven points, however, the Parkites still have two matches to play.

Carib led by trebles from Kern Ramsammy and Andre Durant blasted Petrotrin 12-2. Kirk “Crabbie” Adamson and Randall Ramsammy added two goals each for Carib while Hillary St Louis and Ronald Ramsammy got one each. Meanwhile, the Parkites got a beaver-trick and Raphael Govia, one in their 5-4 nail biting win over Corona Fatima.

RESULTS

National Indoor Hockey Championship Results:

Friday

Women’s Open

Checkers 3 vs Malvern 0 - By Default

Men’s Open

Petrotrin 8 (Solomon Eccles 3, Atiba Whittington 3, Dwain Quan Chan 2) vs Paragon 2 (Akim Toussaint 2)

Mixed Veterans

QPCC 5 (Robert Mouttet 4, Raphael Govia) vs Fatima 4 (Derek Lee, Rolph Young)

Carib 12 (Kern Ramsammy 3, Andre Durant 3, Kirk Adamson 2, Randall Ramsammy 2, Hillary St Louis, Ronald Ramsammy) vs Petrotrin 2

Source: www.guardian.co.tt

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports Ashwin Creed is calling on national sporting organisations to address the issues of child protection and sexual harassment. Creed said his Ministry has been receiving complaints and wants the NSO to implement policies to deal with the concerns. “You should promote inclusion in the constitution, not only for the NAAA but all local federations, on a policy of child protection and sexual harassment particularly of our young females. “I am making this recommendation at this point because we have received myriad of complaints and as a Ministry we have to do more to protect our young women form this type of abuse.”

Creed was delivering opening remarks at the symposium hosted by the women’s committee of the National Association of Athletic Adminstration (NAAA) at the Crown Plaza Hotel on Saturday. The Theme of the symposium was ‘Believe in Yourself.’ Creed added that young men are also affected. He advised coaches and officials to provide encouragement to women and girls in sports. He added that skills and competency must be taught in order to achieve excellence. “Teach the skill necessary for success also the competency to execute the skill. We keep putting the skill before the competency it is supposed to be the other way around.” Creed also said the World Championships women’s 100m bronze medallist Kelly Ann Baptiste will be honoured by the Ministry of Sports at the Ministry’s inaugural Sports Awards on December 28.

Former Olympic medallist Grace Jackson of Jamaica was the symposium’s main speaker. The 1988 Seoul women’s 200m silver medallist shared on her rise from poverty to become an elite athlete and identified confidence and determination as ingredients in her success as an athlete. Belmont Boys Secondary School principal Lucia Reyes encouraged parents to take time to attend their children’s activities and recommended that children should have an input in the setting rules at home bcause if they are involved they will be more likely to obey. Over 140 participants including athletes, parents and officials attend the symposium and NAAA Women’s Committee chairperson Lucretia Burns said she was happy with the turn out.

Source: www.guardian.co.tt

By Clayton Clarke

It starts with a dream. Some understand it but they don’t buy it. As July 27, 2012 fast approaches, there is a growing sense of urgency and awareness. Some have only started to think about the Olympic Games as it draws near. Such a lack of respect for the Games can only result in one thing—failure. That’s only fair as hundreds have lived and prepared for the Games with relentless dedication for years. It’s all they dream about day in, day out. That’s the challenge. Fidelity to the Olympic dream is a prerequisite for success. The pursuit of Olympic success is not for those who are unwilling to sacrifice. Olympism and Olympic excellence is a state of mind and an attitude; a mind set; the willingness to endure and accomplish; to believe in the Olympic dream before anyone else; choosing reality over fantasy; looking for hope in the face of adversity; digging for the lessons in a sea of negativity.

Where do you find the inspiration and motivation in the face of those, who have no Olympic dream either through ignorance, apathy or deliberate intention. They ignore the price that must be paid. London 2012, what will it deliver for T&T? Even in the face of years of toil nothing is guaranteed to those, who have harboured and nurtured their dream. In this context it is important that those, who can make a difference recognise that the days of ignoring the plight of our sportsmen and women should be long gone. Since 2004, successive governments have taken the lead in providing elite athlete funding. This provides vital support that must not be taken for granted. Without this support our elite level athletes will have to find normal employment and forego any realistic hopes of making it to the Olympics, far less winning a medal.

As with everything else time brings with it changes. It is only fair that the elite athlete assistance programme look further than just the Olympic Games and individual athletes. Non-Olympic sports and team sports must also receive consideration. It is only fair that other aspirations receive support. After all the Olympic Games means nothing for some non-Olympic sports and even mind you some Olympic sports. So the challenge then is sustainable funding. A very real obstacle in trying economic times. There is no stakeholder in local sport who can avoid the circumstances that the economic difficulties must bring. It is a frightening prospect with July 27, just around the corner. This is not the time for false promises. The margin between Olympic success and failure is razor thin. This is when leadership will make the difference by setting the right example, standing up for what must be done. It is about absolute accountability—an attitude that is clear and uncompromising—no excuses.

We are all either on the same page or we are not. Are we serious about helping our sportsmen and women pursue their Olympic dreams? This is the time for honesty and an uncompromising look at what is going on and happening. Are we serious about pursuing Olympic dreams? This is not the time for egotism and silly games. It is either yes or no. Are we serious? Clarity and focus, this is what is required as we no longer have the luxury of time. The Olympic Games offers no hiding place for those who are less than sincere and faithful. It takes years to be crowned an Olympic champion. Olympic glory is not earned by quick fixes or shortcuts. There is an adage: the will to win is nothing without the will to prepare. This obligation is not for the athletes alone but also for the sport leaders, administrators and managers.

-Brian Lewis

Source: www.guardian.co.tt

THIS year’s Harvard 7s Rugby Festival will take place at St Mary’s College Ground, Serpentine Road, St Clair, from December 3-4.

And for the first time there will be competition for women and children. Harvard chairman Anthony Loregnard said that the tournament will comprise a blend of top class men and women rugby as well as fun-oriented touch rugby for all ages.

According to Loregnard, since the Harvard club was founded in 1943 they have always placed emphasis on the community aspect of the sport and not just competition.

“Rugby has tremendous value as a family oriented activity that can build physical fitness and social interaction. This year we are broadening the reach of the tournament” Loregnard said.

The tournament will also feature a novice category that will comprise mixed teams.

The Harvard rugby boss explained, “We are looking at new ideas and concepts to keep the tournament innovative and exciting. The novice event is targetted at persons who have never played rugby before. There will also be an Under-17, Over 35 division, Under-12 and Under-10 division. There is growing interests in the sport locally. Our aim is to engage a wider cross-section, in an effort to position and highlight rugby as a sport for all.”

The Harvard rugby tournament was first staged in 1988 as the Red Stripe Rugby Classic. “It has been a long journey to date. We have had our ups and downs but we have remained dedicated to staging the tournament as it mirrors the history of rugby in TT.”

Source: www.newsday.co.tt