JAAA names strong 70-member CARIFTA team
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
MONTEGO BAY, St James — The Jamaica Amateur Athletics Association (JAAA) yesterday named a powerful 70-member team to defend Jamaica's title at the 40th CARIFTA Games to be held at the Montego Bay Sports Complex, Easter weekend, April 23-25.
Calabar's Traves Smikle, the third best junior discus thrower ever and Holmwood Technical's world junior leading quarter-miler Chris-Ann Gordon will lead the team that will see St Andrew High's Leacroft Bolt as head coach.
Jamaica College's Rohan Walker, who was left off his school's team at Boys' Champs, has been named in the team and will contest the Under-17 200m/400m events.
There were some notable omissions, however, including new national junior record holder in the female high jump, Kimberly Williamson of Edwin Allen High, who could only manage third at the Trials held March 19-20 at the Stadium East field.
Her teammate Ristananna Tracey, the defending Under-20 400m hurdles champion is also out, as she was held out of the Trials by her coach Michael Dyke, who told the Observer he could not risk any injuries, given the closeness of the Gibson Relays, Trials and Girls' Champs.
St Elizabeth Technical's Opal James, who was second in the CARIFTA Games Under-17 long jump last year and who won the long and triple jumps at Trials, was not named and it is understood she is nursing a slight injury.
Munro College's Waynee Hyman, who was second in the Under-20 boys' 400m and also second in Class One at Champs, was also left out.
Jamaica has dominated the regional championships that was first held in 1972 and has won the lion's share of the medals over the last 25 stagings or so.
Jamaican athletes won 72 medals last year to top the medals table in the Cayman Islands with Trinidad and Tobago next on 40 and The Bahamas third with 29.
Bolt said that he was confident the Jamaican team would continue its high level performance and said competing in front of a home crowd will push them to do even better.
"I am expecting stellar performances," he told the Observer. "We have a well-balanced team with some superb athletes and they will do well."
Team: Under-17 Girls — Shauna Helps, Shanice Bonner, Jonielle Smith, Yanique McNeil, Kissi Ann Brown, Lisa Buchanan, Alethia McLaughlin, Yanique Thompson, Peta Gay Williams, Kimone Green, Krista Gay Taylor, Shardia Lawrence, Claudette Allen, Gleneve Grange, Paul Ann Gayle. Under-17 Boys -- Raheem Robinson, Jevaughn Minzie, Rohan Walker, Khadeesh Willis, Keneil Harrison, Kevon Robinson, Herbert Thomas, Orville Dixon, Tyler Mason, Michael Ohara, Rosean Maxwell, Marvin Williams, Christoffe Bryan, Julanie Walker, Christopher Brown, Alec Verne Longmore.
Under-20 Girls — Christania Williams, Deandre Whitehorne, Shericka Jackson, Celia Walters, Chris-Ann Gordon, Olivia James, Simoya Campbell, Chantal Duncan, Taska Johnson, Chrisdale McCarthy, Megan Simmonds, Janieve Russell, Rushell Clayton, Chanice Porter, Petergay Reid, Nickeva Wilson, Avril McGhie, Kellion Knibb, Sashagay Marston.
Under-20 Boys — Kemar Bailey-Cole, Jazeel Murphy, Kemarley Brown, Odail Todd, Rusheen McDonald, Brian Smith, Andrew Hosey, Orane Wint, Rogeek Rochester, Khari Bowen, Stefan Fennell, Omar McLeod, Demar Robinson, Clive Pullen, Kazuma Davis, Xavier Boland, Oshinia Miller, Traves Smikle, Jeffrey King, Javier Bell.
Coaches — Leacroft Bolt, Steve Cole, Corey Bennett, Leaford Grant, Dwight Jones and Keilando Goburn.
Management team — Keith Wellington, head of delegation, Langley Robinson, manager, Jennifer Brown and Sonia Rose, assistant managers, Omar Savon, team doctor, Marlon Wilkie, masseur.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Friday, April 8, 2011
School museum opened at St Andrew High
School museum opened at St Andrew High
Friday, April 08, 2011
THE St Andrew High School for Girls today became the first educational institution to open a school museum in Jamaica.
The museum, which was funded by members of the school alumnae and is built in recognition of past administrator, Mrs Emrie James, as the institution celebrates their 85 year anniversary (1925-2010).
The unveiling ceremony was attended by dignitaries from the education ministry, led by Minister of Education Andrew Holness.
"I endorse this move and I must say from the bottom of my heart I respect this school," said Holness.
Alumnae, including Maxine Henry-Wilson and wife of the Governor General Lady Hall, who were in attendance, expressed their pride at seeing the museum become a reality.
"Cherish this museum young ladies, as we remember the people who made all this possible," said Lady Hall.
Friday, April 08, 2011
THE St Andrew High School for Girls today became the first educational institution to open a school museum in Jamaica.
The museum, which was funded by members of the school alumnae and is built in recognition of past administrator, Mrs Emrie James, as the institution celebrates their 85 year anniversary (1925-2010).
The unveiling ceremony was attended by dignitaries from the education ministry, led by Minister of Education Andrew Holness.
"I endorse this move and I must say from the bottom of my heart I respect this school," said Holness.
Alumnae, including Maxine Henry-Wilson and wife of the Governor General Lady Hall, who were in attendance, expressed their pride at seeing the museum become a reality.
"Cherish this museum young ladies, as we remember the people who made all this possible," said Lady Hall.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Holmwood Technical captures their ninth straight Girls title
Holmwood Technical captures their ninth straight Girls title
Sunday, April 03, 2011
IN a battle of wills, experience prevailed as Holmwood Technical last night captured their ninth straight Girls Championship title, beating longtime nemesis Edwin Allen by six points at the National Stadium.
The Frankfield, Clarendon-based Edwin Allen finally seemed ready to take the elusive title and actually entered the final day on 134 points to Holmwood's 130.
Edwin Allen star athlete Ristananna Tracey powers to her third victory, in the Class one Girls 400 metres, at the National Stadium yesterday. (Photo: Bryan Cummings)
The lead changed hands several times yesterday but essential points in the relays helped the defending champions Holmwood establish themselves as they took the sprint medley in a new championships record 4:01.62, lowering their own mark of 4:01.92 set last year, finishing ahead of St Jago in 4:01.83 and Edwin Allen 4:05.84.
Holmwood also secured the class three sprint 4x100m relay in a record 45.83 seconds and the Class 1 sprint relay in 45.50, while Edwin Allen finished second in 45.77. The top two positions were reversed in the Class 4 version, where Edwin Allen won in 48.30 to Holmwood's 48.31.
Edwin Allen's Ristananna Tracey was not fast enough to catch Holmwood anchor runner Chris Ann Gordon in the final event, the open 4x400m as the champions finished second in 3:36.90 and retained their title with 326 points to Edwin Allen's 320.
Vere claimed the 4x400m in a meet record 3:33.17.
Holmwood's coach Maurice Wilson told the Sunday Observer the pundits and naysayers who said his team could not take the title gave them the motivation needed.
"I was extremely motivated based on all that was being said. I'm really extremely happy for all of the young ladies who showed tremendous courage. A champion is a champion and I know it was going to be very difficult for Edwin Allen to just steamroll us," he said.
Meanwhile, Tracey and St Andrew's Rushele Burton led a cadre of multiple medallists, each capturing a trio of individual gold.
Having already secured the 400m and 400m hurdles, Tracey made a quick start before storming away to a huge lead and a standing ovation in the Class 1 800m in 2:05.95, with teammate Desreen Montaque second in 2:09.01, and Chantal Duncan of Vere third in 2:09.44.
"I'm very determined. It's my last year of Champs and I want to leave a special mark here so that they can say, 'yes, Ristananna has done this in 2011 for Edwin Allen'," she told the Sunday Observer.
Tracey had earlier defended her Class 1 400m title, establishing a 10-metre lead by the 200m mark and widening by almost 30 metres by the finish, clocking 52.38. Manchester's Orenthia Bennett was second in 55.26, with Bellefield Moya McKenzie third in 56.10.
Burton captured her second gold when she came from behind to claim the Class 4 70m hurdles in 10.79 seconds, pipping Janeek Brown of Wolmer's.
Burton, who on Friday won the 100m in 12.19 ahead of Ayeshia Morgan of Hydel (12.25) and Shellece Clark of Edwin Allen (12.30), went on to take the 200 in 25.36 ahead of Excelsior's Jody-Ann Petrie (25.39) and Shanice Brown of Edwin Allen (25.45).
Wolmer's Shawna Helps completed the sprint double, adding the 200 to her Class 3 100m gold in a fight to the finish with teammate Janiele Smith, both registering 24.64 seconds, with Sashalee Forbes of Holmwood third in 24.66.
Vere's Shericka Jackson continued her dominance in the Class Two 200m, sealing victory in 24.06 as Edwin Allen's Claudette Allen was second in 24.25 and Wolmer's Cardine Copeland third in 24.79.
Yanique Ellington of Holmwood posted 24.10 for victory in the Class 1 race, finishing ahead of the Herbert Morrison pair of Remona Burchell, 24.18, and Teveo Jenkins, 24.45.
Holmwood's Lisa Buchanan in the last 10 metres was forced to stave off the challenge of STETH's Chantal Smith to claim the Class 3 800m by the narrowest of margins in 2:12.05 to Smith's 2:12.07, with Aleitha McLaughlin third (2:14.21).
Chris-Ann Gordon was handed a shock by Spaldings' Simoya Campbell in the Class 2 800m. Campbell has had an impressive season and finally came through to win by 10 metres in 2:11.24, while Gordon posted 2:13.01 and Marleena Eubanks of Edwin Allen, 2:14.97
Gordon, however, remained unbeaten over 400, clocking a record and world-leading 51.62 seconds to beat the Vere pair of Olivia James (52.90) and Shericka Jackson (52.94).
In the process, she lowered the seven-year-old record of 52.41 set by Sonita Sutherland in 2004.
Vere's Yanique McNeil, the fastest qualifier entering the final, improved on the silver she won in 2010, taking charge after the first 100m to win the Class 3 400 in 54.29 ahead of St Jago's Genekee Leith, 55.10, and Semoy Hemmings of Hydel, 55.29.
Sunday, April 03, 2011
IN a battle of wills, experience prevailed as Holmwood Technical last night captured their ninth straight Girls Championship title, beating longtime nemesis Edwin Allen by six points at the National Stadium.
The Frankfield, Clarendon-based Edwin Allen finally seemed ready to take the elusive title and actually entered the final day on 134 points to Holmwood's 130.
Edwin Allen star athlete Ristananna Tracey powers to her third victory, in the Class one Girls 400 metres, at the National Stadium yesterday. (Photo: Bryan Cummings)
The lead changed hands several times yesterday but essential points in the relays helped the defending champions Holmwood establish themselves as they took the sprint medley in a new championships record 4:01.62, lowering their own mark of 4:01.92 set last year, finishing ahead of St Jago in 4:01.83 and Edwin Allen 4:05.84.
Holmwood also secured the class three sprint 4x100m relay in a record 45.83 seconds and the Class 1 sprint relay in 45.50, while Edwin Allen finished second in 45.77. The top two positions were reversed in the Class 4 version, where Edwin Allen won in 48.30 to Holmwood's 48.31.
Edwin Allen's Ristananna Tracey was not fast enough to catch Holmwood anchor runner Chris Ann Gordon in the final event, the open 4x400m as the champions finished second in 3:36.90 and retained their title with 326 points to Edwin Allen's 320.
Vere claimed the 4x400m in a meet record 3:33.17.
Holmwood's coach Maurice Wilson told the Sunday Observer the pundits and naysayers who said his team could not take the title gave them the motivation needed.
"I was extremely motivated based on all that was being said. I'm really extremely happy for all of the young ladies who showed tremendous courage. A champion is a champion and I know it was going to be very difficult for Edwin Allen to just steamroll us," he said.
Meanwhile, Tracey and St Andrew's Rushele Burton led a cadre of multiple medallists, each capturing a trio of individual gold.
Having already secured the 400m and 400m hurdles, Tracey made a quick start before storming away to a huge lead and a standing ovation in the Class 1 800m in 2:05.95, with teammate Desreen Montaque second in 2:09.01, and Chantal Duncan of Vere third in 2:09.44.
"I'm very determined. It's my last year of Champs and I want to leave a special mark here so that they can say, 'yes, Ristananna has done this in 2011 for Edwin Allen'," she told the Sunday Observer.
Tracey had earlier defended her Class 1 400m title, establishing a 10-metre lead by the 200m mark and widening by almost 30 metres by the finish, clocking 52.38. Manchester's Orenthia Bennett was second in 55.26, with Bellefield Moya McKenzie third in 56.10.
Burton captured her second gold when she came from behind to claim the Class 4 70m hurdles in 10.79 seconds, pipping Janeek Brown of Wolmer's.
Burton, who on Friday won the 100m in 12.19 ahead of Ayeshia Morgan of Hydel (12.25) and Shellece Clark of Edwin Allen (12.30), went on to take the 200 in 25.36 ahead of Excelsior's Jody-Ann Petrie (25.39) and Shanice Brown of Edwin Allen (25.45).
Wolmer's Shawna Helps completed the sprint double, adding the 200 to her Class 3 100m gold in a fight to the finish with teammate Janiele Smith, both registering 24.64 seconds, with Sashalee Forbes of Holmwood third in 24.66.
Vere's Shericka Jackson continued her dominance in the Class Two 200m, sealing victory in 24.06 as Edwin Allen's Claudette Allen was second in 24.25 and Wolmer's Cardine Copeland third in 24.79.
Yanique Ellington of Holmwood posted 24.10 for victory in the Class 1 race, finishing ahead of the Herbert Morrison pair of Remona Burchell, 24.18, and Teveo Jenkins, 24.45.
Holmwood's Lisa Buchanan in the last 10 metres was forced to stave off the challenge of STETH's Chantal Smith to claim the Class 3 800m by the narrowest of margins in 2:12.05 to Smith's 2:12.07, with Aleitha McLaughlin third (2:14.21).
Chris-Ann Gordon was handed a shock by Spaldings' Simoya Campbell in the Class 2 800m. Campbell has had an impressive season and finally came through to win by 10 metres in 2:11.24, while Gordon posted 2:13.01 and Marleena Eubanks of Edwin Allen, 2:14.97
Gordon, however, remained unbeaten over 400, clocking a record and world-leading 51.62 seconds to beat the Vere pair of Olivia James (52.90) and Shericka Jackson (52.94).
In the process, she lowered the seven-year-old record of 52.41 set by Sonita Sutherland in 2004.
Vere's Yanique McNeil, the fastest qualifier entering the final, improved on the silver she won in 2010, taking charge after the first 100m to win the Class 3 400 in 54.29 ahead of St Jago's Genekee Leith, 55.10, and Semoy Hemmings of Hydel, 55.29.
Jamaica College and Holmwood triumph!
JC, Holmwood triumph!
Sunday, April 03, 2011
A hundred years after their first win in 1911, Jamaica College (JC) last night won their 21st ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys Championships for the Mortimer Geddes Trophy after overhauling early leaders Kingston College (KC) on a pulsating final day of the 101st staging at the National Stadium.
In the Girls competition, Holmwood Technical held off a stern challenge from rivals Edwin Allen High to prevail by a mere six points — 226-220.
Jamaica College athletes take a victory lap with their school flag after winning the 101st Boys’ Athletic Championships at the National Stadium, yesterday. (Photo: Bryan Cummings)
Munro College’s Delano Williams (2nd right) sprints to victory in the Class One 200-metres final in 21.00 seconds ahead of Green Island’s Odail Todd (3rd left) and Jazeel Murphy (2nd left) at the National Stadium yesterday. (Photo: Bryan Cummings)
The Orville Brown-coached JC team prevailed with 280 points to KC's 269 nailbiting points as Calabar was third with 236, followed by Wolmer's Boys, 139, and Munro College fifth with 133.
JC, who last won in 2000, trailed fierce rivals KC by 21 points (112-133) from 17 completed finals at the start of the final day, but continued to chip away at the deficit before taking their first lead after 23 finals at 159-154 after scoring 14 points in the Class 2 sprint hurdles.
The lead continued to change hands almost with every event until the 26th final, the Class 2 800 metres, when the Hope Street-based school took the lead for good.
JC's win extended a glorious year for the school after they won the Under-19 football treble for the first time — the Manning and Walker Cups and the Olivier Shield — as well as the all-island Under 14 and the ISSA Under-19 hockey title, the latter a first.
Orville Brown, the JC head coach, told the Sunday Observer the coaching staff stayed up well into the early morning "assessing our situation, but we realised we are still in it".
Despite their good showing at the Gibson Relays, there were doubts about JC's depth and Brown said they, too, were nervous.
"We were not certain even in the sprint relays until after the 5000m when Bejaun Jones placed third, then they knew it was all over."
Co-captain Hugh Lewis told the Sunday Observer that "We've been saying it all year. Champs was ours to win and this is the truth; it will set you free."
Two records were broken yesterday. Ashinia Miller of Calabar set a new record in the Class 1 shot put, surpassing the previous 18.22m set last year by Chad Wright by a massive 0.76m with a new mark of 18.98m.
Traves Smikle, who had smashed the discus record on Thursday, was second in 18.05m, while Munro's Emanuel Oniya was third with 17.70m.
JC set a new mark in the Class 2 4x100m relay, posting 41.21 seconds to erase the 41.24 set by Calabar in 2006.
There were three double winners — JC's Deshawn Jackson, who took the Class 2 sprint double, Calabar's Orville Dixon, who won the Class 3 800m yesterday after winning the 1500m a day earlier, and his teammate Michael Ohara, who won the Class 3 100m/100m hurdles double.
In one of the most highly-anticipated events, 17-year-old Turks and Caicos native Delano Williams got over his "disappointment of placing third in the Class 1 100m final on Friday to win the 200m in 21.00 seconds, ahead of Green Island's Odail Todd, 21.42, and 100m champion Jazeel Murphy, 21.48.
Afterwards, he said while he gave it his all in the shorter sprint, it was the half-lap event he really wanted and was happy to finally win an individual gold medal a Champs.
Williams won two more god medals, including two in the relays as he teamed with compatriot Ifeanyi Otuonye, who led off; Rajiv Service and Waynee Hyman to upset favorites STETHS in the Class 1 4x100m, winning in 38.92 seconds.
STETHS, who were unbeaten since the Penn Relays Small Schools consolation finals last year, were second in 40.48 and Bridgeport, anchored by Murphy, third in 40.83.
He led off the 4x400m team which included Hyman, Service and anchored by Kaneil Harrison in 3 minutes 12.90 seconds, with Manchester high second and Calabar third.
Jackson of JC completed the Class 2 sprint double, winning the 200m in 21.97 seconds, with Bog Walk High's Jevaughn Minzie taking the silver in22.26 and Kedeesh Willis of St Jago, who was fourth in the 400m, third in 22.49.
Another JC athlete, Devaughn Baker, won the Class 3 200m in 22.69 seconds ahead of Jordan James of Wolmers, 22.97, and Raheem Chambers of St Jago, 23.06.
After several attempts, Seaforth High's Javere Bell finally struck gold, racing to 46.54 seconds to take the Class 1 400m, beating his IAAF World Youth Championship teammate Hyman of Munro, 47.40, with KC's Jovan Williams third in 47.60.
Manchester High's Lennox Williams retained his Class 2 title with a commanding 47.96 clocking after a false start, crossing the line well ahead of Calabar's Javon Francis, 48.83, and St Jago's Ivan Henry, who beat teammate Kadeesh Willis for the bronze.
JC's Baker appeared to have won the Class 3 quarter-mile, but inexplicably stopped a few feet from the line and was passed by the hard-rushing Jordan James of Wolmer's, who won in 50.28 seconds, an improvement on his third place last year.
Baker of JC took the silver with 50.34, while the bronze went to Calabar's Malcolm Campbell with 51.24.
Holmwood's Kevin White prevailed to win the Class 1 800m in 1 minute 52.26 seconds after a stirring home stretch battle with Clarendon College's Brian Smith, 1:52.43, and Calabar's Rando Gunn, 1:52.50.
Calabar's Jorel Belfante, the Class 2 1500m champion on Friday, was denied a second gold medal and despite diving across the line, was beaten by Foga Road's Kevon Robinson, who made up for third place last year with gold in 1:57.40.
Belafonte took silver with 1:57.45 and JC's Romaine Headman took bronze in 1:57.77.
Calabar's Dixon, who broke the Class 3 1500m record on Friday evening, won his second gold less than 24 hours later when he raced away from the Class 3 800 field, winning in 2:00.24, beating Nakeem Hemmings of JC, 2:03.14, with Foga Road High's Oyeth Bailey third.
Red-hot favourite Stefan Fennell of KC duly obliged in the Class 1 110m hurdles, sailing over the barriers to post 13.68 seconds, erasing last year's disappoints when he crashed out in the Class 2 semis.
He was followed home by Yannick Hart of Wolmer's, 14.05, and Omar Graham of Manchester, 14.24.
Tyler Mason of JC won consecutive hurdles gold, racing to 13.82 seconds in the Class 2 110m final after winning in Class 3 last year, beating Calabar's Kemar Williams, 14.16, and STETHS' Davion Dennis, 14.34.
Calabar's Michael Ohara, who won the 100m gold on Friday night, won his second gold yesterday, taking the 100m hurdles in 13.96 seconds, easily ahead of Wolmers' Jaheel Hyde, 13.93, leaning across the line ahead of St Jago's Jordan Chin, who clocked 13.96.
In one of their rare victories yesterday, Wolmers' earned nine points from Christoffe Bryan in the Class 2 high jump after he won on the count back from JC's Ashani Wright after both cleared 2.08m. Calabar's Jovan Swaby was third with 2.00.
Munro's Giovanni Mowatt sprinted away from St Jago's 2000m steeplechase winner Webster Chung to win the 5000m Open in 15 minutes 24.09 seconds, while Bejaun Jones of JC took third.
Sunday, April 03, 2011
A hundred years after their first win in 1911, Jamaica College (JC) last night won their 21st ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys Championships for the Mortimer Geddes Trophy after overhauling early leaders Kingston College (KC) on a pulsating final day of the 101st staging at the National Stadium.
In the Girls competition, Holmwood Technical held off a stern challenge from rivals Edwin Allen High to prevail by a mere six points — 226-220.
Jamaica College athletes take a victory lap with their school flag after winning the 101st Boys’ Athletic Championships at the National Stadium, yesterday. (Photo: Bryan Cummings)
Munro College’s Delano Williams (2nd right) sprints to victory in the Class One 200-metres final in 21.00 seconds ahead of Green Island’s Odail Todd (3rd left) and Jazeel Murphy (2nd left) at the National Stadium yesterday. (Photo: Bryan Cummings)
The Orville Brown-coached JC team prevailed with 280 points to KC's 269 nailbiting points as Calabar was third with 236, followed by Wolmer's Boys, 139, and Munro College fifth with 133.
JC, who last won in 2000, trailed fierce rivals KC by 21 points (112-133) from 17 completed finals at the start of the final day, but continued to chip away at the deficit before taking their first lead after 23 finals at 159-154 after scoring 14 points in the Class 2 sprint hurdles.
The lead continued to change hands almost with every event until the 26th final, the Class 2 800 metres, when the Hope Street-based school took the lead for good.
JC's win extended a glorious year for the school after they won the Under-19 football treble for the first time — the Manning and Walker Cups and the Olivier Shield — as well as the all-island Under 14 and the ISSA Under-19 hockey title, the latter a first.
Orville Brown, the JC head coach, told the Sunday Observer the coaching staff stayed up well into the early morning "assessing our situation, but we realised we are still in it".
Despite their good showing at the Gibson Relays, there were doubts about JC's depth and Brown said they, too, were nervous.
"We were not certain even in the sprint relays until after the 5000m when Bejaun Jones placed third, then they knew it was all over."
Co-captain Hugh Lewis told the Sunday Observer that "We've been saying it all year. Champs was ours to win and this is the truth; it will set you free."
Two records were broken yesterday. Ashinia Miller of Calabar set a new record in the Class 1 shot put, surpassing the previous 18.22m set last year by Chad Wright by a massive 0.76m with a new mark of 18.98m.
Traves Smikle, who had smashed the discus record on Thursday, was second in 18.05m, while Munro's Emanuel Oniya was third with 17.70m.
JC set a new mark in the Class 2 4x100m relay, posting 41.21 seconds to erase the 41.24 set by Calabar in 2006.
There were three double winners — JC's Deshawn Jackson, who took the Class 2 sprint double, Calabar's Orville Dixon, who won the Class 3 800m yesterday after winning the 1500m a day earlier, and his teammate Michael Ohara, who won the Class 3 100m/100m hurdles double.
In one of the most highly-anticipated events, 17-year-old Turks and Caicos native Delano Williams got over his "disappointment of placing third in the Class 1 100m final on Friday to win the 200m in 21.00 seconds, ahead of Green Island's Odail Todd, 21.42, and 100m champion Jazeel Murphy, 21.48.
Afterwards, he said while he gave it his all in the shorter sprint, it was the half-lap event he really wanted and was happy to finally win an individual gold medal a Champs.
Williams won two more god medals, including two in the relays as he teamed with compatriot Ifeanyi Otuonye, who led off; Rajiv Service and Waynee Hyman to upset favorites STETHS in the Class 1 4x100m, winning in 38.92 seconds.
STETHS, who were unbeaten since the Penn Relays Small Schools consolation finals last year, were second in 40.48 and Bridgeport, anchored by Murphy, third in 40.83.
He led off the 4x400m team which included Hyman, Service and anchored by Kaneil Harrison in 3 minutes 12.90 seconds, with Manchester high second and Calabar third.
Jackson of JC completed the Class 2 sprint double, winning the 200m in 21.97 seconds, with Bog Walk High's Jevaughn Minzie taking the silver in22.26 and Kedeesh Willis of St Jago, who was fourth in the 400m, third in 22.49.
Another JC athlete, Devaughn Baker, won the Class 3 200m in 22.69 seconds ahead of Jordan James of Wolmers, 22.97, and Raheem Chambers of St Jago, 23.06.
After several attempts, Seaforth High's Javere Bell finally struck gold, racing to 46.54 seconds to take the Class 1 400m, beating his IAAF World Youth Championship teammate Hyman of Munro, 47.40, with KC's Jovan Williams third in 47.60.
Manchester High's Lennox Williams retained his Class 2 title with a commanding 47.96 clocking after a false start, crossing the line well ahead of Calabar's Javon Francis, 48.83, and St Jago's Ivan Henry, who beat teammate Kadeesh Willis for the bronze.
JC's Baker appeared to have won the Class 3 quarter-mile, but inexplicably stopped a few feet from the line and was passed by the hard-rushing Jordan James of Wolmer's, who won in 50.28 seconds, an improvement on his third place last year.
Baker of JC took the silver with 50.34, while the bronze went to Calabar's Malcolm Campbell with 51.24.
Holmwood's Kevin White prevailed to win the Class 1 800m in 1 minute 52.26 seconds after a stirring home stretch battle with Clarendon College's Brian Smith, 1:52.43, and Calabar's Rando Gunn, 1:52.50.
Calabar's Jorel Belfante, the Class 2 1500m champion on Friday, was denied a second gold medal and despite diving across the line, was beaten by Foga Road's Kevon Robinson, who made up for third place last year with gold in 1:57.40.
Belafonte took silver with 1:57.45 and JC's Romaine Headman took bronze in 1:57.77.
Calabar's Dixon, who broke the Class 3 1500m record on Friday evening, won his second gold less than 24 hours later when he raced away from the Class 3 800 field, winning in 2:00.24, beating Nakeem Hemmings of JC, 2:03.14, with Foga Road High's Oyeth Bailey third.
Red-hot favourite Stefan Fennell of KC duly obliged in the Class 1 110m hurdles, sailing over the barriers to post 13.68 seconds, erasing last year's disappoints when he crashed out in the Class 2 semis.
He was followed home by Yannick Hart of Wolmer's, 14.05, and Omar Graham of Manchester, 14.24.
Tyler Mason of JC won consecutive hurdles gold, racing to 13.82 seconds in the Class 2 110m final after winning in Class 3 last year, beating Calabar's Kemar Williams, 14.16, and STETHS' Davion Dennis, 14.34.
Calabar's Michael Ohara, who won the 100m gold on Friday night, won his second gold yesterday, taking the 100m hurdles in 13.96 seconds, easily ahead of Wolmers' Jaheel Hyde, 13.93, leaning across the line ahead of St Jago's Jordan Chin, who clocked 13.96.
In one of their rare victories yesterday, Wolmers' earned nine points from Christoffe Bryan in the Class 2 high jump after he won on the count back from JC's Ashani Wright after both cleared 2.08m. Calabar's Jovan Swaby was third with 2.00.
Munro's Giovanni Mowatt sprinted away from St Jago's 2000m steeplechase winner Webster Chung to win the 5000m Open in 15 minutes 24.09 seconds, while Bejaun Jones of JC took third.
Jamaica College (JC) and Holmwood Technical High shines at Champs
April 2, 2011
Jamaica College (JC) and Holmwood Technical High held off strong challenges from main rivals Kingston College and Edwin Allen High respectively to emerge boys and girls' champions on the final day of the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA)/ GraceKennedy 2011 meet at the National Stadium yesterday.
It was not a day for the faint of heart. Leads in both the girls' and boys' championships changed regularly throughout the day. The girls' title was only decided in the final event, the 4x400 metres which was won by Vere Technical. Holmwood finished second to clinch the title, their ninth consecutive, with 326 points with Edwin Allen second on 320.
JC went into the boys' 4x400 metres with a comfortable lead to end with 280 points, eleven more than Kingston College, Calabar were third on 236, Wolmer's were next on 139 with Munro College fifth on 133.
The boys from Old Hope Road who were claiming their first title since 2000 started the day 21 points behind Kingston College, who had been leading the championships since the first day, but managed to produce the goods when it mattered, to stave off the hot pursuit and secure their 21st hold of the title.
With the title still on the line before the final event, the 4x400m Open, in true dramatic fashion, the second leg runners for JC and KC collided in each other, resulting in the two finishing at the back of the pack. It didn't matter in the end as JC crowned themselves Champs kingpins.
Their authority was underlined in the Class Three 4x100m as they smashed the old mark of 43.04 seconds, to register an impressive 41.21, with KC, 41.43, and Calabar, 41.79, also bettering the old record for their second and third places respectively.
Munro won a scintillating Class One 4x100m relay, in a neck-breaking 39.92, ahead of the previously all-dominant St Elizabeth Technical, 40.49, and Bridgeport, 40.53.
Sprint medley relay
KC, 3:33.17, as expected, won the sprint medley relay, beating Calabar, 3:33.72 and Jamaica College, 3:35.75; JC's strong finish ensuring that KC hearts could not rest in comfort.
Ashinia Miller continued Calabar's dominance in the throws when he broke the Class One boys' shot put record with a big 18.98m mark, erasing his former teammate Chad Wright's 18.22m record set last year. Discus record holder and champion Travis Smikle, also from Calabar, was second with 18.08m with Emmanuel Onyia (Munro), 17.70m finishing third.
The JC pair of Deshawn Jackson and Devaughn Baker won the Class Two and Three 200m respectively as JC continued their relentless late afternoon assault on the title.
Jackson, won his final in 22.06, with Bog Walk's Jevaughn Minzie, 22.26, and St Jago's Kadeesh Willis, 22.49, picking up the other medals.
Devaughn Baker (JC) won the Class Three boys 200m in 22.69 ahead of Jordan James (Wolmer's), 22.97, and Raheem Chambers (St Jago), 23.06.
In the Class Three boys 400m final, favourite Jordan James (Wolmer's), 50.28, got out quickly and appeared to start tiring at the 200m mark, but recovered with gusto towards the end to steal a win from JC's Devaughn Baker, 50.34, while Calabar's Malcolm Campbell was third in 51.24.
After finishing a disappointing fourth last year, Eastern Championships record - holder Javere Bell (Seaforth), 46.54, returned to decimate the field in the Class One final, with his fastest time of the year, while Munro's Waynee Hyman, 47.40, was second with KC's Jovan Williams, 47.60, finishing third.
Michael O'Hara (Calabar) continued his impressive championships, building on his 100m triumph by dominating the Class Three 100m hurdles field, stopping the clock at 13.69. O'Hara, who wore a big smile across his face while clearing the last hurdle, was trailed by Wolmer's Jaheel Hyde, 13.93 and St Jago's Jordan Chin, 13.96.
Class Two 110m hurdles
Tyler Mason (JC) won the Class Two 110m hurdles event in 13.82, just shy of the 13.69 Champs record set in 1999 by Dwayne Robinson. Mason, however, would have probably bettered that mark had he not decided to celebrate before the end of the race. Kemar Williams (Calabar), 14.16, was second with Davion Dennis (STETHS), 14.34 running third.
KC's Stefan Fennel has been peerless all season, so it was little surprise when his smooth hurdling gave him an easy win in the Class One final, threatening the meet record with an impressive 13.68 run.
In one of the most exciting races at the meet, last year's Class Three champion Kevin Robinson (Foga Road), 1:57.40, produced a late burst to nip 1500m champion Jorel Belfante (Calabar), 1:57.45. JC's Romaine Headman, 1:57.77, was third.
Jamaica College (JC) and Holmwood Technical High held off strong challenges from main rivals Kingston College and Edwin Allen High respectively to emerge boys and girls' champions on the final day of the Inter-Secondary Schools Sports Association (ISSA)/ GraceKennedy 2011 meet at the National Stadium yesterday.
It was not a day for the faint of heart. Leads in both the girls' and boys' championships changed regularly throughout the day. The girls' title was only decided in the final event, the 4x400 metres which was won by Vere Technical. Holmwood finished second to clinch the title, their ninth consecutive, with 326 points with Edwin Allen second on 320.
JC went into the boys' 4x400 metres with a comfortable lead to end with 280 points, eleven more than Kingston College, Calabar were third on 236, Wolmer's were next on 139 with Munro College fifth on 133.
The boys from Old Hope Road who were claiming their first title since 2000 started the day 21 points behind Kingston College, who had been leading the championships since the first day, but managed to produce the goods when it mattered, to stave off the hot pursuit and secure their 21st hold of the title.
With the title still on the line before the final event, the 4x400m Open, in true dramatic fashion, the second leg runners for JC and KC collided in each other, resulting in the two finishing at the back of the pack. It didn't matter in the end as JC crowned themselves Champs kingpins.
Their authority was underlined in the Class Three 4x100m as they smashed the old mark of 43.04 seconds, to register an impressive 41.21, with KC, 41.43, and Calabar, 41.79, also bettering the old record for their second and third places respectively.
Munro won a scintillating Class One 4x100m relay, in a neck-breaking 39.92, ahead of the previously all-dominant St Elizabeth Technical, 40.49, and Bridgeport, 40.53.
Sprint medley relay
KC, 3:33.17, as expected, won the sprint medley relay, beating Calabar, 3:33.72 and Jamaica College, 3:35.75; JC's strong finish ensuring that KC hearts could not rest in comfort.
Ashinia Miller continued Calabar's dominance in the throws when he broke the Class One boys' shot put record with a big 18.98m mark, erasing his former teammate Chad Wright's 18.22m record set last year. Discus record holder and champion Travis Smikle, also from Calabar, was second with 18.08m with Emmanuel Onyia (Munro), 17.70m finishing third.
The JC pair of Deshawn Jackson and Devaughn Baker won the Class Two and Three 200m respectively as JC continued their relentless late afternoon assault on the title.
Jackson, won his final in 22.06, with Bog Walk's Jevaughn Minzie, 22.26, and St Jago's Kadeesh Willis, 22.49, picking up the other medals.
Devaughn Baker (JC) won the Class Three boys 200m in 22.69 ahead of Jordan James (Wolmer's), 22.97, and Raheem Chambers (St Jago), 23.06.
In the Class Three boys 400m final, favourite Jordan James (Wolmer's), 50.28, got out quickly and appeared to start tiring at the 200m mark, but recovered with gusto towards the end to steal a win from JC's Devaughn Baker, 50.34, while Calabar's Malcolm Campbell was third in 51.24.
After finishing a disappointing fourth last year, Eastern Championships record - holder Javere Bell (Seaforth), 46.54, returned to decimate the field in the Class One final, with his fastest time of the year, while Munro's Waynee Hyman, 47.40, was second with KC's Jovan Williams, 47.60, finishing third.
Michael O'Hara (Calabar) continued his impressive championships, building on his 100m triumph by dominating the Class Three 100m hurdles field, stopping the clock at 13.69. O'Hara, who wore a big smile across his face while clearing the last hurdle, was trailed by Wolmer's Jaheel Hyde, 13.93 and St Jago's Jordan Chin, 13.96.
Class Two 110m hurdles
Tyler Mason (JC) won the Class Two 110m hurdles event in 13.82, just shy of the 13.69 Champs record set in 1999 by Dwayne Robinson. Mason, however, would have probably bettered that mark had he not decided to celebrate before the end of the race. Kemar Williams (Calabar), 14.16, was second with Davion Dennis (STETHS), 14.34 running third.
KC's Stefan Fennel has been peerless all season, so it was little surprise when his smooth hurdling gave him an easy win in the Class One final, threatening the meet record with an impressive 13.68 run.
In one of the most exciting races at the meet, last year's Class Three champion Kevin Robinson (Foga Road), 1:57.40, produced a late burst to nip 1500m champion Jorel Belfante (Calabar), 1:57.45. JC's Romaine Headman, 1:57.77, was third.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Carifta Trials at the Stadium East
Carifta Trials at the Stadium East
Edwin Allen High's Christiania Williams was in impressive form at yesterday's opening day of the two-day Carifta Trials at the Stadium East. Running against a 1.1-metre per second wind, Williams scorched the track in an outstanding 11.39 seconds to capture the girls' Under-20 100-metre final.
The former Oracabessa High sprinter who is not eligible to run at Boys and Girls' Championships this month, pulled away from a determined Deandre Whitehorn in the final 20 metres for her impressive win. Whitehorn, just returning from injury, was second in a personal best 11.56 with former Glengoffe High athlete, Natasha Morrison, competing for the University of Technology, finishing third in 11.70.
"I was very confident before my final as I knew that I was going to win as I have been doing well all season and I was not surprised when I heard my time," said the Michael Dyke-coached athlete.
Easy victory
Former Old Harbour High athlete, Kemar Bailey-Cole, romped to an easy victory in the Under-20 boys' 100 metres. Now at Racers Track Club under sprint-guru coach Glen Mills, Bailey-Cole led from start to finish to turn back the challenge of Bridgeport High's Jahzeel Murphy, winning in 10.41 seconds. Murphy clocked a season-best 10.50 for second as Jamaica College Class Two athlete Deshawn Jackson was third in 10.73. Wolmer's Boys' Odean Skeen, who was expected to figure prominently in the event, did not compete.
There were also impressive wins for Wolmer's Girls' Shauna Helps and Wolmer's Boys' Raheem Robinson in the Under-17 event. First year Class Three athlete, Helps, clocked 11.95 to score a close win over Queen's High's Shanice Bonner, 11.98, with Glenmuir's Ashley Stephens, third in 12.23.
Robinson, who is expected to play a key role in the Class Two sprints for his school at Boys Champs, scored a minor upset as he won the Under-17 event in 10.90 to upstage Bog Walk High's Jevaughn Minzie (10.93) and Herbert Morrison's Gauwin Williams (10.96).
Camperdown High's Peta Gaye Williams was the winner of the Under-17 girls' 300-metre hurdles in 42.32 seconds, ahead of St Elizabeth Technical's Kimone Green (42.53) and Alpha Academy's Krista Gay Taylor (43.69).
Holmwood Technical's Janieve Russell (59.15) outlasted Vere Technical's Rushell Clayton (59.83) to capture the girls' Under-20 400-metre hurdles.
Manchester High's Omar McLeod won the boys' Under-20 one-lap hurdle event in 51.86 from Munro College's Patrick Campbell (52.28) and Vere Technical's Andre Clarke (53.01).
Holmwood Technical's Lisa Buchanan (2:16.42) won the girls' Under-17 800 metres ahead of Central High's Monique McPherson (2:18.64).
Girls' Under-20 800m
Spaldings High's Simoya Campbell (2:09.04) took the girls' Under-20 800m with Vere Technical's Chantal Duncan (2:10.48) finishing second.
Calabar High's Jorell Belafonte streaked to victory in the Under-17 boys' 800m in 1:57.46, while Clarendon College's Brian Smith won the Under-20 event in 1:53.31 to defeat Holmwood Technical's Andre Hosey (1:53.47).
St Jago High athletes dominated the 3000 metres for Under-17 boys and Under-20 girls. Shannakay South won the girls' event in 10:56.22, ahead of St Elizabeth Technical's Nickeisha Williams (10.59.01). In the boys' 3000m, it was Webster Pennant in 9:29.51 ahead of Edwin Allen's Akeem Francis in 9:37.63.
The meet will start this morning at 10:45 with the final of the boys' Under-17 400-metre hurdles.
Edwin Allen High's Christiania Williams was in impressive form at yesterday's opening day of the two-day Carifta Trials at the Stadium East. Running against a 1.1-metre per second wind, Williams scorched the track in an outstanding 11.39 seconds to capture the girls' Under-20 100-metre final.
The former Oracabessa High sprinter who is not eligible to run at Boys and Girls' Championships this month, pulled away from a determined Deandre Whitehorn in the final 20 metres for her impressive win. Whitehorn, just returning from injury, was second in a personal best 11.56 with former Glengoffe High athlete, Natasha Morrison, competing for the University of Technology, finishing third in 11.70.
"I was very confident before my final as I knew that I was going to win as I have been doing well all season and I was not surprised when I heard my time," said the Michael Dyke-coached athlete.
Easy victory
Former Old Harbour High athlete, Kemar Bailey-Cole, romped to an easy victory in the Under-20 boys' 100 metres. Now at Racers Track Club under sprint-guru coach Glen Mills, Bailey-Cole led from start to finish to turn back the challenge of Bridgeport High's Jahzeel Murphy, winning in 10.41 seconds. Murphy clocked a season-best 10.50 for second as Jamaica College Class Two athlete Deshawn Jackson was third in 10.73. Wolmer's Boys' Odean Skeen, who was expected to figure prominently in the event, did not compete.
There were also impressive wins for Wolmer's Girls' Shauna Helps and Wolmer's Boys' Raheem Robinson in the Under-17 event. First year Class Three athlete, Helps, clocked 11.95 to score a close win over Queen's High's Shanice Bonner, 11.98, with Glenmuir's Ashley Stephens, third in 12.23.
Robinson, who is expected to play a key role in the Class Two sprints for his school at Boys Champs, scored a minor upset as he won the Under-17 event in 10.90 to upstage Bog Walk High's Jevaughn Minzie (10.93) and Herbert Morrison's Gauwin Williams (10.96).
Camperdown High's Peta Gaye Williams was the winner of the Under-17 girls' 300-metre hurdles in 42.32 seconds, ahead of St Elizabeth Technical's Kimone Green (42.53) and Alpha Academy's Krista Gay Taylor (43.69).
Holmwood Technical's Janieve Russell (59.15) outlasted Vere Technical's Rushell Clayton (59.83) to capture the girls' Under-20 400-metre hurdles.
Manchester High's Omar McLeod won the boys' Under-20 one-lap hurdle event in 51.86 from Munro College's Patrick Campbell (52.28) and Vere Technical's Andre Clarke (53.01).
Holmwood Technical's Lisa Buchanan (2:16.42) won the girls' Under-17 800 metres ahead of Central High's Monique McPherson (2:18.64).
Girls' Under-20 800m
Spaldings High's Simoya Campbell (2:09.04) took the girls' Under-20 800m with Vere Technical's Chantal Duncan (2:10.48) finishing second.
Calabar High's Jorell Belafonte streaked to victory in the Under-17 boys' 800m in 1:57.46, while Clarendon College's Brian Smith won the Under-20 event in 1:53.31 to defeat Holmwood Technical's Andre Hosey (1:53.47).
St Jago High athletes dominated the 3000 metres for Under-17 boys and Under-20 girls. Shannakay South won the girls' event in 10:56.22, ahead of St Elizabeth Technical's Nickeisha Williams (10.59.01). In the boys' 3000m, it was Webster Pennant in 9:29.51 ahead of Edwin Allen's Akeem Francis in 9:37.63.
The meet will start this morning at 10:45 with the final of the boys' Under-17 400-metre hurdles.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
What to expect two weeks before Champs
What to expect two weeks before Champs
Tuesday, March 08, 2011
WHEN news broke earlier this year that the annual Gibson Relays might have to be postponed, many people in the track and field circle in Jamaica felt their hearts collectively skipped a beat.
Coaches, fans and athletes alike all winced at the thought of not having the one-day spectacle as a last major preparation for ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys' and Girls' Athletics Championships. One can just imagine the relief when the dust settled and it turned out that it was not cancelled, but postponed due to the renovation work being done on the track.
Enter a new scenario; Gibson Relays will be the first major meet to be held on the newly installed track at the National Stadium.
The 35th staging of the event will be this Saturday, March 12 and based on the proximity to Champs, will offer possibly the greatest indication of what will happen at Champs than it ever has. The annual relay carnival, which is said to be the biggest one-day carnival of its kind in this hemisphere, is just two weeks before Champs (March 23-26). This means that no matter what games the top coaches might want to play, the gravity of the event will pull the best out of their charges.
With that said, keen attention will be placed on the high school relays. Indeed, the eyes of the crowd will be glued to the track when the 4x100, and 4x400 metre races for high schools are being run.
Based on what has been happening throughout the season, many of the country's top schools are ready to unleash crack squads at Champs and this weekend could provide us with our first glimpse.
One of the key events to watch at this year's event will be the boys' class one 4x100 metres. STETHS took the title in record form at this year's Western Relays but they will be pushed by the likes of Munro College, who are boasting Adam Cummings and Delano Williams in the line-up. Wolmer's Boys and Jamaica College should also be in the mix.
The high school 4x400 metres should be the perfect closers for the show this year. Many schools have been secretly putting together strong teams to compete in this event and we could see something special at this year's staging.
Tuesday, March 08, 2011
WHEN news broke earlier this year that the annual Gibson Relays might have to be postponed, many people in the track and field circle in Jamaica felt their hearts collectively skipped a beat.
Coaches, fans and athletes alike all winced at the thought of not having the one-day spectacle as a last major preparation for ISSA/GraceKennedy Boys' and Girls' Athletics Championships. One can just imagine the relief when the dust settled and it turned out that it was not cancelled, but postponed due to the renovation work being done on the track.
Enter a new scenario; Gibson Relays will be the first major meet to be held on the newly installed track at the National Stadium.
The 35th staging of the event will be this Saturday, March 12 and based on the proximity to Champs, will offer possibly the greatest indication of what will happen at Champs than it ever has. The annual relay carnival, which is said to be the biggest one-day carnival of its kind in this hemisphere, is just two weeks before Champs (March 23-26). This means that no matter what games the top coaches might want to play, the gravity of the event will pull the best out of their charges.
With that said, keen attention will be placed on the high school relays. Indeed, the eyes of the crowd will be glued to the track when the 4x100, and 4x400 metre races for high schools are being run.
Based on what has been happening throughout the season, many of the country's top schools are ready to unleash crack squads at Champs and this weekend could provide us with our first glimpse.
One of the key events to watch at this year's event will be the boys' class one 4x100 metres. STETHS took the title in record form at this year's Western Relays but they will be pushed by the likes of Munro College, who are boasting Adam Cummings and Delano Williams in the line-up. Wolmer's Boys and Jamaica College should also be in the mix.
The high school 4x400 metres should be the perfect closers for the show this year. Many schools have been secretly putting together strong teams to compete in this event and we could see something special at this year's staging.
Sprinters stole the spotlight at Western Champs
CATHERINE HALL, St James — Sprinters stole the spotlight on Saturday as the Milo-sponsored County of Cornwall Athletics Association's (COCAA) Western Champs ended at the Montego Bay Sports Complex.
Munro College's Class One sprinter Delano Williams won the sprint double, but his Class Four teammate Rushane Edwards was the toast of the day with a splendid 22.29 seconds in the 200m final.
Cherifa Bartlett clears a hurdle on her way to winning the Girls Class Two 100m hurdles in 14.31 seconds at last Saturday’s final of the Milo COCAA Western Championships at the Montego Bay Sports Complex.
Sixteen records were broken, two equalled and one established as champions Munro College in the boys' section and St Elizabeth Technical High (STETHS) girls' retained their respective titles.
Munro won their fifth-straight title after scoring 452 points, 199 more than second-placed STETHS with Herbert Morrison (228.5 points), Petersfield (179) and Cornwall College (110) rounding out the top five.
STETHS girls won their 10th straight with 419, 99 more than Herbert Morrison's 320 with Mannings third with 200 and William Knibb-125 and Hampton School-77 the top five.
A number of finals were held earlier in the week as the girls' eliminations were held on Tuesday and the Boys on Thursday.
Edwards' new time smashed the 22.96 seconds set six years ago by Jerome Silvera after he won the 100m gold earlier with 11.5 seconds.
Williams, who represented the Turks and Caicos Islands at both the IAAF World Juniors in Canada last year as well as the Commonwealth Games in India, was a surprise winner of the 100m after upsetting defending champion Andrew Fisher of STETHS with a 10.51 clocking before returning to clock a smart 2.73 seconds to win the 200m.
Another Munro College runner, Waynee Hyman broke Usain Brooks' four-year-old record 48.1 seconds in the Class One 400m when he raced to a new 47.26 seconds to win the one-lap race.
Irwin High School's Rene Ambursley continued her good season in the 400m as she ran a personal best 54.98 seconds to win the Class One 400m event, beating the 55.3 time held jointly by Herbert Morrison's Nickesha Anderson and STETHS' Davita Prendergast.
Herbert Morrison Technical's Siedatha Palmer took the Class One 100m in 11.85 seconds, holding off William Knibb's Stacika Bright and another Herbert Morrison runner Remona Burchell.
Three of the girls sprint relay records were also broken, Herbert Morrison won the Class One in 46.99 seconds, STETHS won the Class Two in 47.54 seconds, while STETHS won Class Four in 50.85 seconds.
A number of middle-distance records were also broken on Saturday as Petersfield's Tion Gray added the Class Three 1,500m record (4:28.5 seconds) to the 3,000m Open he broke on Thursday.
Munro's Giovanni Foote ran one minute 55.0 seconds to win the Class One 800m, while Giovanni Mowatt ran four minutes 03.7 seconds in the Class One 1,500m.
Munro College's Class One sprinter Delano Williams won the sprint double, but his Class Four teammate Rushane Edwards was the toast of the day with a splendid 22.29 seconds in the 200m final.
Cherifa Bartlett clears a hurdle on her way to winning the Girls Class Two 100m hurdles in 14.31 seconds at last Saturday’s final of the Milo COCAA Western Championships at the Montego Bay Sports Complex.
Sixteen records were broken, two equalled and one established as champions Munro College in the boys' section and St Elizabeth Technical High (STETHS) girls' retained their respective titles.
Munro won their fifth-straight title after scoring 452 points, 199 more than second-placed STETHS with Herbert Morrison (228.5 points), Petersfield (179) and Cornwall College (110) rounding out the top five.
STETHS girls won their 10th straight with 419, 99 more than Herbert Morrison's 320 with Mannings third with 200 and William Knibb-125 and Hampton School-77 the top five.
A number of finals were held earlier in the week as the girls' eliminations were held on Tuesday and the Boys on Thursday.
Edwards' new time smashed the 22.96 seconds set six years ago by Jerome Silvera after he won the 100m gold earlier with 11.5 seconds.
Williams, who represented the Turks and Caicos Islands at both the IAAF World Juniors in Canada last year as well as the Commonwealth Games in India, was a surprise winner of the 100m after upsetting defending champion Andrew Fisher of STETHS with a 10.51 clocking before returning to clock a smart 2.73 seconds to win the 200m.
Another Munro College runner, Waynee Hyman broke Usain Brooks' four-year-old record 48.1 seconds in the Class One 400m when he raced to a new 47.26 seconds to win the one-lap race.
Irwin High School's Rene Ambursley continued her good season in the 400m as she ran a personal best 54.98 seconds to win the Class One 400m event, beating the 55.3 time held jointly by Herbert Morrison's Nickesha Anderson and STETHS' Davita Prendergast.
Herbert Morrison Technical's Siedatha Palmer took the Class One 100m in 11.85 seconds, holding off William Knibb's Stacika Bright and another Herbert Morrison runner Remona Burchell.
Three of the girls sprint relay records were also broken, Herbert Morrison won the Class One in 46.99 seconds, STETHS won the Class Two in 47.54 seconds, while STETHS won Class Four in 50.85 seconds.
A number of middle-distance records were also broken on Saturday as Petersfield's Tion Gray added the Class Three 1,500m record (4:28.5 seconds) to the 3,000m Open he broke on Thursday.
Munro's Giovanni Foote ran one minute 55.0 seconds to win the Class One 800m, while Giovanni Mowatt ran four minutes 03.7 seconds in the Class One 1,500m.
Oberlin High lays down the gauntlet at Eastern Champs
Many-time champions Oberlin High laid down the gauntlet to all challengers on day one of the Jamaica National/Eastern Secondary Schools Sports Association Athletic Championships at the University of West Indies/Usain Bolt Track, closing with a slight lead over defending champions Buff Bay yesterday.
Four records were broken as Oberlin, desperate to reclaim the crown they lost to Buff Bay last year, closed the day on 136 points, eight more than the defending champs who have set themselves up nicely for a showdown.
Both teams have distanced themselves from the pack after 17 completed finals.
Titchfield are third on 55 points, Glengoffe (50) fourth, while St Mary High close out the top five on 49.5.
Titchfield's Shantel Reid twice smashed the Class One girls' discus record, to highlight yesterday's action.
Reid first hurled 35.52m to erase Ashantia Hayden's old mark of 33.41 metres, before going even further with a 38.35m posting.
Robert Thomas (Paul Bogle High) made light of the old Class One boys' discus record, posting 47.14m en route to winning the finals and in the process erasing the old mark of 39.09m.
Oberlin's Shanice Lee, 1.65m bettered Trudy Ann Powell's (Morant Bay) 1.55m in the Class Two girls' high jump final, while Titchfield's Shavanes Robinson, 4:31.34, smashed the Class Three boys' 1500m record, which previously stood at 4:39.45.
Morant Bay High qualified with the fastest time in the Class Two boys' 4x100m with 44.69, but should be hard pressed by St Mary Technical, 45.05, and Buff Bay, 45.85, in today's final.
Javere Bell (Seaforth High) eased to 22.23 seconds in the Class One boys' 200m, the fastest qualifying time for today's final, with St Thomas Technical's Brandon McIntosh (22.25) posting the second fastest.
Glengoffe's Trishauna Hemmings, 4.43m, won the Class Four girls' long jump ahead of Raphana Brown from Buff Bay, 4.31m, and Oberlin's Theana Fraser, who posted 4.17m for bronze.
Oberlin's Sashae Fender, 5:13.08, was too strong for her peers, as she helped herself to the gold medal in the Class Three girls' 1500m final, while Shamona Hunt (Glengoffe), 5:18.12, was second with Doneta Hunt (Buff Bay), 5:28.09, running third.
The Class Two girls' were considerably slower with Oberlin's Margaret McKay claiming the event in 5:21.29. Glengoffe's Sanque Richards, 5:25.06, and St Mary's College's Diane Lamont, 5:45.77, finished second and third, respectively.
Oberlin High completed the sweep in the event, with Anna-Kay McCallum winning the Class One final in 5:26.86 ahead of Buff Bay's Lacy-Ann Lecky, 5:31.41, and Seaforth's Shareen Daley, 5:36.50.
Rohan Simms (Titchfield) won the Class One boys' 1500m final in 4:15.75, while Annotto Bay's Collin Miles, 4:23.16 and Oberlin's Marcel Lamb, 4:25.31, claimed the other podium spots.
Yallahs' Orando Morgan won the Class Two boys' 1500m finals in 4:26.80, while Annotto Bay's Gawayne Richards, 4:29.55, ran second and St Mary Technical's Anthony Small, 4:31.01, finished third.
Christopher Shakespeare (Morant Bay) won the boys' Class Two long jump final with a 6.15m jump ahead of the St Mary Tech duo of Theo Walker, 6.11m, and Tashane Riley, 5.99m.
Jodeen Williams' (St Mary High) 12.58 was the fastest female in all classes in the girls' 100m prelims, winning her Class Two heat in 12.58 seconds.
Four records were broken as Oberlin, desperate to reclaim the crown they lost to Buff Bay last year, closed the day on 136 points, eight more than the defending champs who have set themselves up nicely for a showdown.
Both teams have distanced themselves from the pack after 17 completed finals.
Titchfield are third on 55 points, Glengoffe (50) fourth, while St Mary High close out the top five on 49.5.
Titchfield's Shantel Reid twice smashed the Class One girls' discus record, to highlight yesterday's action.
Reid first hurled 35.52m to erase Ashantia Hayden's old mark of 33.41 metres, before going even further with a 38.35m posting.
Robert Thomas (Paul Bogle High) made light of the old Class One boys' discus record, posting 47.14m en route to winning the finals and in the process erasing the old mark of 39.09m.
Oberlin's Shanice Lee, 1.65m bettered Trudy Ann Powell's (Morant Bay) 1.55m in the Class Two girls' high jump final, while Titchfield's Shavanes Robinson, 4:31.34, smashed the Class Three boys' 1500m record, which previously stood at 4:39.45.
Morant Bay High qualified with the fastest time in the Class Two boys' 4x100m with 44.69, but should be hard pressed by St Mary Technical, 45.05, and Buff Bay, 45.85, in today's final.
Javere Bell (Seaforth High) eased to 22.23 seconds in the Class One boys' 200m, the fastest qualifying time for today's final, with St Thomas Technical's Brandon McIntosh (22.25) posting the second fastest.
Glengoffe's Trishauna Hemmings, 4.43m, won the Class Four girls' long jump ahead of Raphana Brown from Buff Bay, 4.31m, and Oberlin's Theana Fraser, who posted 4.17m for bronze.
Oberlin's Sashae Fender, 5:13.08, was too strong for her peers, as she helped herself to the gold medal in the Class Three girls' 1500m final, while Shamona Hunt (Glengoffe), 5:18.12, was second with Doneta Hunt (Buff Bay), 5:28.09, running third.
The Class Two girls' were considerably slower with Oberlin's Margaret McKay claiming the event in 5:21.29. Glengoffe's Sanque Richards, 5:25.06, and St Mary's College's Diane Lamont, 5:45.77, finished second and third, respectively.
Oberlin High completed the sweep in the event, with Anna-Kay McCallum winning the Class One final in 5:26.86 ahead of Buff Bay's Lacy-Ann Lecky, 5:31.41, and Seaforth's Shareen Daley, 5:36.50.
Rohan Simms (Titchfield) won the Class One boys' 1500m final in 4:15.75, while Annotto Bay's Collin Miles, 4:23.16 and Oberlin's Marcel Lamb, 4:25.31, claimed the other podium spots.
Yallahs' Orando Morgan won the Class Two boys' 1500m finals in 4:26.80, while Annotto Bay's Gawayne Richards, 4:29.55, ran second and St Mary Technical's Anthony Small, 4:31.01, finished third.
Christopher Shakespeare (Morant Bay) won the boys' Class Two long jump final with a 6.15m jump ahead of the St Mary Tech duo of Theo Walker, 6.11m, and Tashane Riley, 5.99m.
Jodeen Williams' (St Mary High) 12.58 was the fastest female in all classes in the girls' 100m prelims, winning her Class Two heat in 12.58 seconds.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Yohan Blake blazing form at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Invitational track and field
RACERS Track Club's Yohan Blake was in blazing form at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Invitational track and field meet yesterday, as he raced to a world leading 20.37 seconds to capture the men's Olympic 200 metres.
Blake, the former St Jago High sprinter, underlined his ability last year when he went sub-10 and sub-20 seconds over the 100 and 200 metres, respectively.
Yesterday he gave the fans something special as despite easing up some 10 metres from the finishing line, Blake was still able to clock a fast time as he relegated teammate Edino Steele into second place in 20.77 seconds.
Racers actually dominated the event as Kenroy Anderson won his heat in 20.66 seconds for second overall.
Blake was very pleased with his run.
"I feel good about my time as I came to run this event to work on the curve, and after easing up near to the finish line I am happy to run so fast," said Blake. "This is a good start for me and I hope my coach will allow me to run both sprints at the Trials this year."
Bridgeport High School's outstanding sprinter, Jahzeel Murphy, continued his impressive return to competition after missing most of last season with a with a right hamstring injury, as he gave another fine display in the boys Class One 100 metres.
Competing in the first heat, the 2009 CARIFTA Games double sprint champion, despite looking a little bit tight in the first 20 metres, found top gear in the final 80 metres to motor away from his opponents for a 10.52-second clocking.
Second-fastest time
Racers' Kemar Bailey-Cole, the former Old Harbour High athlete, recorded the second-fastest time among Class One boys, as he captured his heat in 10.57 seconds.
Manchester High's Lennox Campbell and Wolmer's Boys' Jordan James look set to capture the respective Class Two and Three 400 metres at Champs, as they produced record-breaking performances.
Williams, running out of lane eight in his heat, showed too much class for his opponents as he cruised to an easy win in 48.94 seconds to erase the 49.49-second mark of Calabar's High's Carlton Cousins.
"I was very easy today and to run a record I am very excited and I am looking to defend my title successfully," said Campbell.
James continued to be elusive in Class Three as he showed too much class for the field to destroy Jamaica College's Jordan Edwards' mark of 53.48 seconds, with an impressive 50.85 seconds. His teammate, Dujon Wilson, finished second overall in 52.42 seconds.
St Jago's boys made a clean sweep in the boys Open 2000 metres steeplechase, which will be a new event at Champs this year. Milo Central Champs winner Webster Chung made it two wins in-a-row as he captured heat one in 6:18.24, while his teammate Sanjay Pantry captured heat two in 6:23.61 for second overall. Rushane Johnson finished third overall in 6:30.81.
In the female equivalent, the vastly-improved Dezrine Montique of Edwin Allen pulled away from Holmwood Technical's Amoy Bailey in the final 90 metres to win in 7:20.85, as Bailey was timed in 7:21.99 for second.
Jamaica College's Edward Clarke and Calabar's Michael Oharo were tops in the Class Two and Three 100 metres, respectively. Clarke stopped the clock at 11.23 seconds, with Oharo registering 11.79 seconds to get the better of Wolmer's Boy's Karey Kelly, who was timed in 11.91 seconds
Blake, the former St Jago High sprinter, underlined his ability last year when he went sub-10 and sub-20 seconds over the 100 and 200 metres, respectively.
Yesterday he gave the fans something special as despite easing up some 10 metres from the finishing line, Blake was still able to clock a fast time as he relegated teammate Edino Steele into second place in 20.77 seconds.
Racers actually dominated the event as Kenroy Anderson won his heat in 20.66 seconds for second overall.
Blake was very pleased with his run.
"I feel good about my time as I came to run this event to work on the curve, and after easing up near to the finish line I am happy to run so fast," said Blake. "This is a good start for me and I hope my coach will allow me to run both sprints at the Trials this year."
Bridgeport High School's outstanding sprinter, Jahzeel Murphy, continued his impressive return to competition after missing most of last season with a with a right hamstring injury, as he gave another fine display in the boys Class One 100 metres.
Competing in the first heat, the 2009 CARIFTA Games double sprint champion, despite looking a little bit tight in the first 20 metres, found top gear in the final 80 metres to motor away from his opponents for a 10.52-second clocking.
Second-fastest time
Racers' Kemar Bailey-Cole, the former Old Harbour High athlete, recorded the second-fastest time among Class One boys, as he captured his heat in 10.57 seconds.
Manchester High's Lennox Campbell and Wolmer's Boys' Jordan James look set to capture the respective Class Two and Three 400 metres at Champs, as they produced record-breaking performances.
Williams, running out of lane eight in his heat, showed too much class for his opponents as he cruised to an easy win in 48.94 seconds to erase the 49.49-second mark of Calabar's High's Carlton Cousins.
"I was very easy today and to run a record I am very excited and I am looking to defend my title successfully," said Campbell.
James continued to be elusive in Class Three as he showed too much class for the field to destroy Jamaica College's Jordan Edwards' mark of 53.48 seconds, with an impressive 50.85 seconds. His teammate, Dujon Wilson, finished second overall in 52.42 seconds.
St Jago's boys made a clean sweep in the boys Open 2000 metres steeplechase, which will be a new event at Champs this year. Milo Central Champs winner Webster Chung made it two wins in-a-row as he captured heat one in 6:18.24, while his teammate Sanjay Pantry captured heat two in 6:23.61 for second overall. Rushane Johnson finished third overall in 6:30.81.
In the female equivalent, the vastly-improved Dezrine Montique of Edwin Allen pulled away from Holmwood Technical's Amoy Bailey in the final 90 metres to win in 7:20.85, as Bailey was timed in 7:21.99 for second.
Jamaica College's Edward Clarke and Calabar's Michael Oharo were tops in the Class Two and Three 100 metres, respectively. Clarke stopped the clock at 11.23 seconds, with Oharo registering 11.79 seconds to get the better of Wolmer's Boy's Karey Kelly, who was timed in 11.91 seconds
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Oshane Bailey and Shereefa Lloyd were among nine record breakers
NATIONAL representatives Oshane Bailey and Shereefa Lloyd were among nine record breakers at the Camperdown Classic at the Usain Bolt Track at the University of the West Indies yesterday.
Bailey of Akan Track Club clocked 10.47 seconds to win the Open men's 100m, smashing the old mark of 10.61 set by former world champion Kim Collins in 2005.
Lloyd clocked 53.17 seconds to win the women's 400m Open
Kevean Smith of Jamaica College sprints to victory in the Class One Boys 100 metres in an impressive 10.63secs at the Camperdown Classic at the Usain Bolt Track at the UWI Bowl yesterday. Bernardo Brady of Camperdown (10.84) and Nicholas Griffiths of St George’s (10.95) were second and third respectively in the time final.
Lloyd clocked 53.17 seconds to win the women's 400m Open 1/2
Bailey won ahead of Kemar Bailey Cole of Racers in 10.56 and Anthony Drysdale, 10.95.
World championship bronze medallist Lloyd clocked 53.17 seconds to win the women's 400m Open, erasing the 55.01 set by Jenice Daley in 2008.
Lloyd finished ahead of Davita Prendergast in 54.56 and Schillonie Calvert, 54.91.
Vere Technical's Shericka Jackson clocked 12.09 seconds in the Class Two Girls 100 metres to lower the previous mark of 12.15 by Immaculate's Samantha Elliott in 2008.
Melissa Williams of St Jago posted 12.18 for second ahead of Chanice Bonner of Queen's, 12.44.
Jamaica College (JC) posted a record 44.67 seconds to win the Class Three Boys 4x100m, breaking their own mark of 44.68 set two years ago.
Calabar finished second in 45.19 and JC Striders in 45.82.
St Andrew and Excelsior both clocked 49.47 seconds to claim the Class Four Girls 4x100m, smashing the old mark of 49.49 set by St Jago last year.
Camperdown were third in 50.46 seconds.
Chantal Duncan of Vere clocked 2:15.92 in the Class One Girls 800m, breaking the 2:19.20 set by C Cousins of Immaculate in 2007.
Lavaughn Palmer of GC Foster, 2:16.66, finished second, while Rushell Clayton of Vere, 2:18.66, was third.
St Jago's Shevel McDonald clocked 2:15.46 to smash the 2:17.05 time set by Neisha Morgan of Manchester High in 2006 in the Class Two Girls 800.
Taska Johnson and Olivia James, both of Vere, were second and third -- Johnson in 2:16.23 and James in 2:20.22.
In the field, Kemarki Absolam's 2.10m was a record in the Class One boys high jump, bettering the 2.00m posted by Calabar's Andrew Riley in 2008.
Chanice Porter cleared a record 1.80 metres to win the Class Two Girls high jump ahead Krista-Gaye Taylor of Alpha and Chenell Palmer of Vere with 1.70m each.
Meanwhile, Kevean Smith of JC posted a blistering 10.63 seconds to win the Class One Boys 100 ahead of Bernardo Brady of Camperdown in 10.84 and Nicholas Griffiths of St George's, 10.95.
Ashley Stephens captured the Class Three Girls 100m in 12.48 ahead of Janeal Brown of Manchester, 12.80, and Renee Smith of Alpha, 12.81.
Rushell Burton of St Andrew secured the Class Four event in 12.67 ahead of Jody Ann Petrie of Excelsior, 12.76, and Randese Ennis of Camperdown, 13.05.
Racers had a one-two-three in the Men's 400m Open as Edino Steele posted 46.16 with Mario Forsythe second in 46.90 and Yohan Blake third in 47.01.
Shanice Clarke of Vere won the Class Three Girls 800m in a time of 2:19.84 ahead of Shanieke Watson of Holmwood in 2:20.10 and Roshae Burrell of St Jago in 2:20.83.
The boys equivalent went to Dirk Williamson of JC in 2:06.09 followed by Ryan Holmes (2:06.39) of Edwin Allen and Calabar A's Malcolm Campbell (2:06.84).
Kendon Guy of St George's claimed the Class One Boys event in 1:56.90 ahead of Shavon Barnes of Camperdown (1:57.34) and Waquar Dacosta of JC (1:57.86).
In Class Two, Calabar's Jorel Bellafonte claimed the top spot in 1:58.45, with Robert Thomas of Monk Street boys second in 2:00.64 and Romaine Headman of JC in 2:00.94.
The Class One Girls 4x100m went to Holmwood in 46.67 seconds ahead of St Jago 47.81 and The Queen's in 49.32.
St George's won the boys equivalent in 41.62 with Calabar second in 41.63 and Monk Street boys third in 42.09.
St Jago was victorious in Class Two in 48.14 ahead of Queen's in 48.36 and St Andrew in 48.49.
Calabar captured the boys equivalent in 42.83 as St Jago finished second in 43.00 and JC Striders third in 43.49.
The Class Three Girls sprint relay was won by Camperdown in 48.54 ahead of Holmwood, 48.95, and St Jago, 49.13.
The Class Four Boys race was won by Calabar in 47.28 ahead of JC, 47.70, and Camperdown, 48.82.
Vere's Marsielle McBean cleared 1.65m to win the Class One Girls high jump ahead of Kimberley Golding of Alpha and Jami-Lee Gordon of Manchester tied for second with heights of 1.55m each.
Bailey of Akan Track Club clocked 10.47 seconds to win the Open men's 100m, smashing the old mark of 10.61 set by former world champion Kim Collins in 2005.
Lloyd clocked 53.17 seconds to win the women's 400m Open
Kevean Smith of Jamaica College sprints to victory in the Class One Boys 100 metres in an impressive 10.63secs at the Camperdown Classic at the Usain Bolt Track at the UWI Bowl yesterday. Bernardo Brady of Camperdown (10.84) and Nicholas Griffiths of St George’s (10.95) were second and third respectively in the time final.
Lloyd clocked 53.17 seconds to win the women's 400m Open 1/2
Bailey won ahead of Kemar Bailey Cole of Racers in 10.56 and Anthony Drysdale, 10.95.
World championship bronze medallist Lloyd clocked 53.17 seconds to win the women's 400m Open, erasing the 55.01 set by Jenice Daley in 2008.
Lloyd finished ahead of Davita Prendergast in 54.56 and Schillonie Calvert, 54.91.
Vere Technical's Shericka Jackson clocked 12.09 seconds in the Class Two Girls 100 metres to lower the previous mark of 12.15 by Immaculate's Samantha Elliott in 2008.
Melissa Williams of St Jago posted 12.18 for second ahead of Chanice Bonner of Queen's, 12.44.
Jamaica College (JC) posted a record 44.67 seconds to win the Class Three Boys 4x100m, breaking their own mark of 44.68 set two years ago.
Calabar finished second in 45.19 and JC Striders in 45.82.
St Andrew and Excelsior both clocked 49.47 seconds to claim the Class Four Girls 4x100m, smashing the old mark of 49.49 set by St Jago last year.
Camperdown were third in 50.46 seconds.
Chantal Duncan of Vere clocked 2:15.92 in the Class One Girls 800m, breaking the 2:19.20 set by C Cousins of Immaculate in 2007.
Lavaughn Palmer of GC Foster, 2:16.66, finished second, while Rushell Clayton of Vere, 2:18.66, was third.
St Jago's Shevel McDonald clocked 2:15.46 to smash the 2:17.05 time set by Neisha Morgan of Manchester High in 2006 in the Class Two Girls 800.
Taska Johnson and Olivia James, both of Vere, were second and third -- Johnson in 2:16.23 and James in 2:20.22.
In the field, Kemarki Absolam's 2.10m was a record in the Class One boys high jump, bettering the 2.00m posted by Calabar's Andrew Riley in 2008.
Chanice Porter cleared a record 1.80 metres to win the Class Two Girls high jump ahead Krista-Gaye Taylor of Alpha and Chenell Palmer of Vere with 1.70m each.
Meanwhile, Kevean Smith of JC posted a blistering 10.63 seconds to win the Class One Boys 100 ahead of Bernardo Brady of Camperdown in 10.84 and Nicholas Griffiths of St George's, 10.95.
Ashley Stephens captured the Class Three Girls 100m in 12.48 ahead of Janeal Brown of Manchester, 12.80, and Renee Smith of Alpha, 12.81.
Rushell Burton of St Andrew secured the Class Four event in 12.67 ahead of Jody Ann Petrie of Excelsior, 12.76, and Randese Ennis of Camperdown, 13.05.
Racers had a one-two-three in the Men's 400m Open as Edino Steele posted 46.16 with Mario Forsythe second in 46.90 and Yohan Blake third in 47.01.
Shanice Clarke of Vere won the Class Three Girls 800m in a time of 2:19.84 ahead of Shanieke Watson of Holmwood in 2:20.10 and Roshae Burrell of St Jago in 2:20.83.
The boys equivalent went to Dirk Williamson of JC in 2:06.09 followed by Ryan Holmes (2:06.39) of Edwin Allen and Calabar A's Malcolm Campbell (2:06.84).
Kendon Guy of St George's claimed the Class One Boys event in 1:56.90 ahead of Shavon Barnes of Camperdown (1:57.34) and Waquar Dacosta of JC (1:57.86).
In Class Two, Calabar's Jorel Bellafonte claimed the top spot in 1:58.45, with Robert Thomas of Monk Street boys second in 2:00.64 and Romaine Headman of JC in 2:00.94.
The Class One Girls 4x100m went to Holmwood in 46.67 seconds ahead of St Jago 47.81 and The Queen's in 49.32.
St George's won the boys equivalent in 41.62 with Calabar second in 41.63 and Monk Street boys third in 42.09.
St Jago was victorious in Class Two in 48.14 ahead of Queen's in 48.36 and St Andrew in 48.49.
Calabar captured the boys equivalent in 42.83 as St Jago finished second in 43.00 and JC Striders third in 43.49.
The Class Three Girls sprint relay was won by Camperdown in 48.54 ahead of Holmwood, 48.95, and St Jago, 49.13.
The Class Four Boys race was won by Calabar in 47.28 ahead of JC, 47.70, and Camperdown, 48.82.
Vere's Marsielle McBean cleared 1.65m to win the Class One Girls high jump ahead of Kimberley Golding of Alpha and Jami-Lee Gordon of Manchester tied for second with heights of 1.55m each.
Olympians Asafa Powell and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce lit up 33rd Milo Western Relays
Olympians Asafa Powell and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce lit up yesterday's 33rd Milo Western Relays at the Catherine Hall Stadium, in Montego Bay, displaying dazzling speed in anchoring their respective teams to victory in the male and female 4x100 metres for clubs and institutions.
However, while Powell's magnificent burst of speed anchored his team to a record 38.53 seconds, the 43.68 done by Fraser-Pryce and her teammates fell short of the record 43.46, which the 2006 MVP team established.
Powell, who looked extremely fit, was quite pleased with his performance, describing the burst of speed that took him across the finish line in front as a "good run". Powell's effort was supported by Nester Carter, Ainsley Waugh and the veteran Michael Frater.
"I felt quite good out there. It is always a pleasure to come down here to Montego Bay and perform for my fans on this side of the island," said Powell, as he tried to make his way through a sea of autograph-seeking fans.
"It is good that we got the record," he added.
Fraser-Pryce, who recently completed a short IAAF ban, was a picture of composure as she got the baton in front after good early legs by Ayana Wilson, Sherone Simpson, and Sherika Williams, and raced to the finish line without being seriously challenged.
"I am happy with the way I ran today and the fact that the fans appreciated our effort," said Fraser-Pryce. "I always enjoy running here in Jamaica."
While he was pleased with the calibre athletes that were on display, meet director Ray Harvey was somewhat disappointed with the turnout of fans.
"It was good to see the likes of Asafa and Shelly-Ann coming here and running real fast," said Harvey. "It is a pity that we did not have a bigger turnout of fans but we just have to keep plodding along because we need an event like this here in the west."
One of the early highlights of yesterday's meet was the presentation of The Gleaner's/Youthlink award, which had three recipients for the first time. The three awardees were world junior 100m champion Dexter Lee, Youth Olympic 100m gold medallist, Odean Skeen of Wolmer's Boys' School and Herbert Morrison High's rising star athlete, Seidatha Palmer.
However, while Powell's magnificent burst of speed anchored his team to a record 38.53 seconds, the 43.68 done by Fraser-Pryce and her teammates fell short of the record 43.46, which the 2006 MVP team established.
Powell, who looked extremely fit, was quite pleased with his performance, describing the burst of speed that took him across the finish line in front as a "good run". Powell's effort was supported by Nester Carter, Ainsley Waugh and the veteran Michael Frater.
"I felt quite good out there. It is always a pleasure to come down here to Montego Bay and perform for my fans on this side of the island," said Powell, as he tried to make his way through a sea of autograph-seeking fans.
"It is good that we got the record," he added.
Fraser-Pryce, who recently completed a short IAAF ban, was a picture of composure as she got the baton in front after good early legs by Ayana Wilson, Sherone Simpson, and Sherika Williams, and raced to the finish line without being seriously challenged.
"I am happy with the way I ran today and the fact that the fans appreciated our effort," said Fraser-Pryce. "I always enjoy running here in Jamaica."
While he was pleased with the calibre athletes that were on display, meet director Ray Harvey was somewhat disappointed with the turnout of fans.
"It was good to see the likes of Asafa and Shelly-Ann coming here and running real fast," said Harvey. "It is a pity that we did not have a bigger turnout of fans but we just have to keep plodding along because we need an event like this here in the west."
One of the early highlights of yesterday's meet was the presentation of The Gleaner's/Youthlink award, which had three recipients for the first time. The three awardees were world junior 100m champion Dexter Lee, Youth Olympic 100m gold medallist, Odean Skeen of Wolmer's Boys' School and Herbert Morrison High's rising star athlete, Seidatha Palmer.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
102-year-old Canadian gospel singer to be honoured at Grammy Awards
TORONTO - In 1966, George Beverly Shea claimed his first — and what he figured would be his last — Grammy Award. After all, he was happily settling into what he naturally assumed would be the twilight of his long, illustrious career.
He was 57 years old then, when the eighth annual instalment of the Grammys was conducted concurrently in Los Angeles, Nashville, Chicago and New York.
Staff Sgt. Barry Sadler's patriotic ode "Ballad of the Green Berets" was atop the charts in the U.S. at the time, while the Vietnam War raged halfway around the world.
Shea always felt out of place in Hollywood and this night was no exception. He liked to refer to himself as "just a psalm singer" from the small town of Winchester, Ont. He watched as the event's big awards were scooped up by the likes of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Herb Alpert, Tom Jones (who, believe it or not, won for best new artist), and a 23-year-old Barbra Streisand.
Shea shared the honour for best gospel or other religious recording with Anita Kerr. The award was presented to the duo by the master of ceremonies, comedian Jerry Lewis.
Though back then the Grammys weren't televised live, Shea didn't need video evidence of the incident to crystallize it in his mind. He savoured every detail. After all, he knew he wouldn't be back.
"Oh my, never," he said now, reached via telephone from his home in North Carolina.
"It was a privilege to be there once. You know, that's the way we looked at it."
But he was wrong. He will be back. At 102 years old, George Beverly Shea is going to be recognized by the Grammys again.
The gospel singing legend will be honoured with a lifetime achievement award at a ceremony on Saturday, the evening before the 53rd Grammy Awards.
Shea will be feted alongside Julie Andrews, Roy Haynes, Juilliard String Quartet, the Kingston Trio, Dolly Parton and the Ramones.
"You consider all those famous people in that category, it makes me think of the farmer that wanted to put his mule in the Kentucky Derby race — they said, 'Well, you know, he'll lose.' And the farmer said, 'Well, yeah, but look at the company he's keeping!'" Shea said with a chuckle.
"That's the way I feel a little bit, you know."
Of course, that's not exactly fair, given Shea's own achievements, and the way his rich bass-baritone voice has enabled him to explore every corner of the world, to become acquainted with generations of famous singers and to maintain a career for more than 70 years.
But he still prefers to look back on his achievements with a modesty instilled at an early age by his father, a Wesleyan Methodist minister.
Shea was born Feb. 1, 1909 in Winchester, a small community in Eastern Ontario. The fourth of eight children, Shea's family moved around several times, including a stay in the United States, but Shea mostly grew up around Ottawa.
He played violin, piano and organ but his vocal talent emerged early, and he became a fixture in the choir at his father's church. Later, when Shea attended Houghton College in Western New York, he sang with the glee club.
It was back in 1940 when Shea's hobby began to become something more. He was 31 years old, working as a radio announcer at a small station in Chicago. There, he met an ambitious 21-year-old college student and pastor at a local church who hosted a show called "Songs in the Night."
The student's name was Billy Graham. Shea liked him, so he helped him with his show.
When Graham became involved with the religious movement Youth for Christ International, he decided Shea's sonorous voice would be the perfect accompaniment to his sermons. But Shea wasn't so sure.
"I said: 'The only gospel singers I know would sing a couple verses and then stop and talk a while — would I have to do that?'" said the notoriously shy Shea. "And (Graham) chuckled, and he said: 'I hope not.'
"We didn't know it would last all these years."
As Graham steadily grew his following, Shea was always there, his booming solos setting the table for Graham's crusades around the world, from New York's Madison Square Garden to London's Wembley Stadium to a gathering of more than a million people in Seoul, Korea.
Now, Graham and Shea live about a couple kilometres apart in Montreat, North Carolina.
"It's a great privilege to work with him," Shea said of his longtime colleague. "He's a wonderful man. He's so unselfish. And when he was well and strong, he was the kind of man who would be first to the door to open it for you — you know, that kind of a man."
"I (still) talk to him. He sent me a letter just the other day. But it's hard to read his writing," he adds, chuckling.
During his work with Graham, Shea quietly assembled an impressive catalogue of original gospel music, including several songs that have, over the years, become well-known: "I'd Rather Have Jesus," "The Wonder of it All" and "I Love Thy Presence, Lord." Meanwhile, his rendition of "How Great Thou Art" is widely considered the gold standard.
"To write hymns that stand the test of time or sing hymns that you introduce and make standards, that is a tremendous achievement of longevity," said Paul Davis, the U.K. author of the authorized biography, "George Beverly Shea: Tell Me the Story," in a telephone interview.
"It's a legacy, isn't it?"
Indeed. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Shea has cumulatively sung for 220 million people over the course of his lifetime — a record, of course.
Shea seems satisfied by the distinction, though he's quick to brush it aside.
"You know, they didn't come to hear me," he said. "They were a captive audience who had to listen to me sing a couple verses of a song.
"But that was kind of nice that somebody wrote that up."
Aside from his consistent humility, what stands out immediately about Shea is his sense of humour.
Knowing that this journalist was ringing from Canada, Shea answered the phone and immediately launched into a booming rendition of "O Canada." He and his wife of 25 years, Karlene, call their home the "Sheasonian" — because, of course, it houses valuable relics.
After discussing his 102nd birthday celebration (his wife made a "great big cake"), he morbidly added, "I don't know if I'll make the 103rd one!" Then he chuckled to himself.
And at one point, Shea — whose friends call him Bev — pointed out that there were three boys in his hometown who shared the name Beverly.
"That's a girl's name, isn't it?" he asked mischievously. He then relayed a story about a time in the 1950s when, after landing a singing gig on ABC, he needed to join a union.
"I got a letter from them saying: 'Ms. Beverly Shea, a couple of ladies from the union are getting together. Bring your bathing suit,'" he recalled. "I should have done it!"
Yet he speaks with a more serious reverence when discussing Canada, though it hasn't been his home for more than 70 years.
He still brings his grandchildren to his cottage near Ottawa every summer. While nothing ever came of his applying to join the Royal Canadian Mounted Police as a teenager, he still displays an RCMP hat and pin given to him years ago in his home (he notes that guests like to try the hat on).
"We just have a marvellous attachment to Canada," he said. "We can hardly wait to get back there again."
He plans to be in L.A. for the presentation of his award this weekend.
Given that he's the type to thank a reporter profusely just for taking an interest in him, it's no surprise when he says he can't quite get his head around the fact that the Grammys even remembered who he was at all.
Though he once accumulated 10 Grammy nominations, all that happened a lifetime ago — well, a lifetime for most people, anyway.
"It's just kind of surprising," he said. "Inever had an agent — most people had agents, you know. ... What a surprise to see the call from the president of the Grammy Awards, you know? 'Cause I didn't think anything like that would ever come up again."
"But they say that this kind of an award is not given because of the number of recordings you've sold. It's just something else.
"I guess, well, it's just your whole lifetime
He was 57 years old then, when the eighth annual instalment of the Grammys was conducted concurrently in Los Angeles, Nashville, Chicago and New York.
Staff Sgt. Barry Sadler's patriotic ode "Ballad of the Green Berets" was atop the charts in the U.S. at the time, while the Vietnam War raged halfway around the world.
Shea always felt out of place in Hollywood and this night was no exception. He liked to refer to himself as "just a psalm singer" from the small town of Winchester, Ont. He watched as the event's big awards were scooped up by the likes of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Herb Alpert, Tom Jones (who, believe it or not, won for best new artist), and a 23-year-old Barbra Streisand.
Shea shared the honour for best gospel or other religious recording with Anita Kerr. The award was presented to the duo by the master of ceremonies, comedian Jerry Lewis.
Though back then the Grammys weren't televised live, Shea didn't need video evidence of the incident to crystallize it in his mind. He savoured every detail. After all, he knew he wouldn't be back.
"Oh my, never," he said now, reached via telephone from his home in North Carolina.
"It was a privilege to be there once. You know, that's the way we looked at it."
But he was wrong. He will be back. At 102 years old, George Beverly Shea is going to be recognized by the Grammys again.
The gospel singing legend will be honoured with a lifetime achievement award at a ceremony on Saturday, the evening before the 53rd Grammy Awards.
Shea will be feted alongside Julie Andrews, Roy Haynes, Juilliard String Quartet, the Kingston Trio, Dolly Parton and the Ramones.
"You consider all those famous people in that category, it makes me think of the farmer that wanted to put his mule in the Kentucky Derby race — they said, 'Well, you know, he'll lose.' And the farmer said, 'Well, yeah, but look at the company he's keeping!'" Shea said with a chuckle.
"That's the way I feel a little bit, you know."
Of course, that's not exactly fair, given Shea's own achievements, and the way his rich bass-baritone voice has enabled him to explore every corner of the world, to become acquainted with generations of famous singers and to maintain a career for more than 70 years.
But he still prefers to look back on his achievements with a modesty instilled at an early age by his father, a Wesleyan Methodist minister.
Shea was born Feb. 1, 1909 in Winchester, a small community in Eastern Ontario. The fourth of eight children, Shea's family moved around several times, including a stay in the United States, but Shea mostly grew up around Ottawa.
He played violin, piano and organ but his vocal talent emerged early, and he became a fixture in the choir at his father's church. Later, when Shea attended Houghton College in Western New York, he sang with the glee club.
It was back in 1940 when Shea's hobby began to become something more. He was 31 years old, working as a radio announcer at a small station in Chicago. There, he met an ambitious 21-year-old college student and pastor at a local church who hosted a show called "Songs in the Night."
The student's name was Billy Graham. Shea liked him, so he helped him with his show.
When Graham became involved with the religious movement Youth for Christ International, he decided Shea's sonorous voice would be the perfect accompaniment to his sermons. But Shea wasn't so sure.
"I said: 'The only gospel singers I know would sing a couple verses and then stop and talk a while — would I have to do that?'" said the notoriously shy Shea. "And (Graham) chuckled, and he said: 'I hope not.'
"We didn't know it would last all these years."
As Graham steadily grew his following, Shea was always there, his booming solos setting the table for Graham's crusades around the world, from New York's Madison Square Garden to London's Wembley Stadium to a gathering of more than a million people in Seoul, Korea.
Now, Graham and Shea live about a couple kilometres apart in Montreat, North Carolina.
"It's a great privilege to work with him," Shea said of his longtime colleague. "He's a wonderful man. He's so unselfish. And when he was well and strong, he was the kind of man who would be first to the door to open it for you — you know, that kind of a man."
"I (still) talk to him. He sent me a letter just the other day. But it's hard to read his writing," he adds, chuckling.
During his work with Graham, Shea quietly assembled an impressive catalogue of original gospel music, including several songs that have, over the years, become well-known: "I'd Rather Have Jesus," "The Wonder of it All" and "I Love Thy Presence, Lord." Meanwhile, his rendition of "How Great Thou Art" is widely considered the gold standard.
"To write hymns that stand the test of time or sing hymns that you introduce and make standards, that is a tremendous achievement of longevity," said Paul Davis, the U.K. author of the authorized biography, "George Beverly Shea: Tell Me the Story," in a telephone interview.
"It's a legacy, isn't it?"
Indeed. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Shea has cumulatively sung for 220 million people over the course of his lifetime — a record, of course.
Shea seems satisfied by the distinction, though he's quick to brush it aside.
"You know, they didn't come to hear me," he said. "They were a captive audience who had to listen to me sing a couple verses of a song.
"But that was kind of nice that somebody wrote that up."
Aside from his consistent humility, what stands out immediately about Shea is his sense of humour.
Knowing that this journalist was ringing from Canada, Shea answered the phone and immediately launched into a booming rendition of "O Canada." He and his wife of 25 years, Karlene, call their home the "Sheasonian" — because, of course, it houses valuable relics.
After discussing his 102nd birthday celebration (his wife made a "great big cake"), he morbidly added, "I don't know if I'll make the 103rd one!" Then he chuckled to himself.
And at one point, Shea — whose friends call him Bev — pointed out that there were three boys in his hometown who shared the name Beverly.
"That's a girl's name, isn't it?" he asked mischievously. He then relayed a story about a time in the 1950s when, after landing a singing gig on ABC, he needed to join a union.
"I got a letter from them saying: 'Ms. Beverly Shea, a couple of ladies from the union are getting together. Bring your bathing suit,'" he recalled. "I should have done it!"
Yet he speaks with a more serious reverence when discussing Canada, though it hasn't been his home for more than 70 years.
He still brings his grandchildren to his cottage near Ottawa every summer. While nothing ever came of his applying to join the Royal Canadian Mounted Police as a teenager, he still displays an RCMP hat and pin given to him years ago in his home (he notes that guests like to try the hat on).
"We just have a marvellous attachment to Canada," he said. "We can hardly wait to get back there again."
He plans to be in L.A. for the presentation of his award this weekend.
Given that he's the type to thank a reporter profusely just for taking an interest in him, it's no surprise when he says he can't quite get his head around the fact that the Grammys even remembered who he was at all.
Though he once accumulated 10 Grammy nominations, all that happened a lifetime ago — well, a lifetime for most people, anyway.
"It's just kind of surprising," he said. "Inever had an agent — most people had agents, you know. ... What a surprise to see the call from the president of the Grammy Awards, you know? 'Cause I didn't think anything like that would ever come up again."
"But they say that this kind of an award is not given because of the number of recordings you've sold. It's just something else.
"I guess, well, it's just your whole lifetime
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Grace Jackson/Queen's Invitational track and field Meet
The first competitive meet on the new track and several of the country's top athletes, including Olympic champions Shelly-Ann Fraser and Melaine Walker from the powerful MVP Track Club, will be making their seasonal debut this Saturday, january 29, 2011.
A lot of attention will be focused on the Usain Bolt Track - at the University of West Indies (UWI) - where the Grace Jackson/Queen's Invitational track and field meet will take place.
The heats of the high school girls' Class Four 200 metres will get the meet under way at 8:30 a.m.
After having her season cut short last year due to a six-month suspension for using a non-performance-enhancing drug, Oxycodone, it will be a welcome return to competition for Olympic and World Championships 100 metres gold medallist Fraser, who will lead a strong cadre of athletes from the Stephen Francis-coached MVP Club.
Fraser will face the starter in the women's 400 metres, competing against Olympic joint 100 metres silver medallist Sherone Simpson.
Other female members from the club, led by Walker, will compete in the 800 metres, where she will be joined by 400 metres World Championships silver medallist Shericka Williams, along with Kaliese Spencer and Jonique Day.
Female athletes from the prominent Racers Track Club will also be well represented, as Schillone Calvert will take the fight to the MVP athletes in the 400 metres with her teammates Sonita Sutherland and Davita Prendegast.
The newest member of their club, Shereefa Lloyd, is down to compete in the 800 metres.
Both clubs will also be well represented in the men's category, with former 100 metres world record holder Asafa Powell, from MVP, being the highest-profile athlete.
Over the years, Powell has used this meet to open his campaign and once again he will line up in the 400 metres where his teammate Michael Frater, will also compete.
Fireworks
Antiguan Daniel Bailey will line up for Racers in the 400 metres, while former MVP member Markino Buckley, who now competes for Racers, is scheduled to run in the 800 metres.
While the senior athletes are expected to steal the spotlight, a lot of fireworks are expected from high school athletes, where the top male teams in Wolmer's Boys, Kingston College, Calabar, Jamaica College and St Jago High are down to compete.
Although they will be competing in different events, a lot of eyes will be on Wolmer's Boys' Odean Skeen and Bridgeport High's Jahzeel Murphy.
Touted as the country's most talented junior male athletes, Skeen, the World Youth Olympic 100 metres champion, will run in the 400 metres, while the talented Murphy is expected to set the place on fire in the 200 metres.
A lot of attention will be focused on the Usain Bolt Track - at the University of West Indies (UWI) - where the Grace Jackson/Queen's Invitational track and field meet will take place.
The heats of the high school girls' Class Four 200 metres will get the meet under way at 8:30 a.m.
After having her season cut short last year due to a six-month suspension for using a non-performance-enhancing drug, Oxycodone, it will be a welcome return to competition for Olympic and World Championships 100 metres gold medallist Fraser, who will lead a strong cadre of athletes from the Stephen Francis-coached MVP Club.
Fraser will face the starter in the women's 400 metres, competing against Olympic joint 100 metres silver medallist Sherone Simpson.
Other female members from the club, led by Walker, will compete in the 800 metres, where she will be joined by 400 metres World Championships silver medallist Shericka Williams, along with Kaliese Spencer and Jonique Day.
Female athletes from the prominent Racers Track Club will also be well represented, as Schillone Calvert will take the fight to the MVP athletes in the 400 metres with her teammates Sonita Sutherland and Davita Prendegast.
The newest member of their club, Shereefa Lloyd, is down to compete in the 800 metres.
Both clubs will also be well represented in the men's category, with former 100 metres world record holder Asafa Powell, from MVP, being the highest-profile athlete.
Over the years, Powell has used this meet to open his campaign and once again he will line up in the 400 metres where his teammate Michael Frater, will also compete.
Fireworks
Antiguan Daniel Bailey will line up for Racers in the 400 metres, while former MVP member Markino Buckley, who now competes for Racers, is scheduled to run in the 800 metres.
While the senior athletes are expected to steal the spotlight, a lot of fireworks are expected from high school athletes, where the top male teams in Wolmer's Boys, Kingston College, Calabar, Jamaica College and St Jago High are down to compete.
Although they will be competing in different events, a lot of eyes will be on Wolmer's Boys' Odean Skeen and Bridgeport High's Jahzeel Murphy.
Touted as the country's most talented junior male athletes, Skeen, the World Youth Olympic 100 metres champion, will run in the 400 metres, while the talented Murphy is expected to set the place on fire in the 200 metres.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Sharon Anderson Calls Ministry to “Arise and Travail….”
Sharon Anderson Calls Ministry to “Arise and Travail….”
New Director Select’s winning theme for 2011
Kingston, Jamaica, January 28, 2011
By Trevesa DaSilva-Ashman and Michael Schurton
“Arise and Travail for Triumphant Change” is the call international intercessor Sharon Anderson has given to the international non-profit Ministry Word Time Ministries of Jamaica.
Anderson made this call in her winning submission for the Ministry’s theme for 2011. Anderson the Ministry’s newest Director said that Word Time Ministries was founded on prayer and faith and believed that a ministry committed to travailing in prayer, can make an even greater difference in effecting positive changes in the nation.
Anderson further stated that "given the challenges the ministry was faced with during 2010. Anderson further stated that “it’s high time for members to wake up from the past, arise from their slumber, arise from despair, arise to a new call of the Lord and walk in the season of triumphant change."
“ I am truly humbled and thankful to obeying the spirit of the Lord in proposing the theme." Anderson stated. She stated that the theme was not just selected for the Ministry but for the nation of Jamaica which needs to arise from its decades of decline - spiritually, morally, socially and financially.
Sharon Anderson joined the Ministry in 2011 and was firstly appointed as a special intercessors for the 10th Annual Sports Champs held in June 2010. Anderson was appointed special advisor to the Chairman on October 25, 2011. Anderson will be formally appointed as the Director for the portfolios of Sports and Community Relations at the 17th Annual General Meeting and Excellence Awards which is scheduled for Saturday, January 29, 2011 in Kingston, Jamaica starting at 11:00 AM.
Sharon Anderson joined the Ministry on April 7, 2010 with a wealth of experience in Ministry and work in the corporate field. She has held several positions senior positions with the US EMBASSY / USAID. These include: Senior Secretary, Director - Regional Housing and Urban Development (RHUDO), Administrative Secretary – Financial Controller and Financial Officer, Mission Coordinator – Religious Activities/Hospitality/Public Relations. Other positions include: Public Relations Officer, COURTLEIGH HOTEL & SUITES, Senior Secretary to the Executive Secretary and Administrative Assistant – Economic Analyst at the JAMAICA MANUFACTURERS’ ASSOCIATION, Administrative Assistant – Expo Manager, JMA/JEA EXPO
Anderson is an avid sports fan and also lends her expertise to several sporting association. She serves as Public Relations Facilitator, AMATEUR SWIMMING ASSOCIATION OF JAMAICA (ASAJ), Coordinator/Facilitator - Company Sponsored High School Swim Meets
Her work also extends to several governmental agencies, including Secretary, Claims Department, MINISTRY OF SOCIAL SECURITY, Executive Secretary,
National Council for the Aged, Executive Secretary, JAMAL
Anderson’s work in Ministry is extensive. She is Coordinator, Community Outreach Programme in St. Thomas/St. Mary/St. Elizabeth/Trelawny, Chaplain, Hospitality Manager, Immaculate Conception High Swim Team and Track & Field Team
She is the Founder of several organizations. These include Coordinators Plus – coordinators of seminars, conferences, weddings, Teleconference International Prayer Network, USA, Women Arise Ministries for Married Women and founder of SPA Ministries
She established Five Fold Ministry with emphasis on Evangelism where she has worked with both governmental and non-governmental agencies. Among these are:
- Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), - United Nations Development Program (UNDP)
- Development Bank of Jamaica, Ministry of Health, Destiny Barbers and Nail Technicians
- Bureau of Women’s Affairs, Government Archives & Records Units
Andersons has also held several positions in Ministry - Past President Whole Life Ministries Bible School, Past President, Whole Life Ministry Alumini Association, Past Teacher - Whole Life Ministries Bible School and Past Chaplain, Maverley Junior High School
Sharon Anderson is a Mentor, Counsellor, Motivational Speaker. She is a past student of St Andrew Technical High School. She has completed studies at Duffs Business College, College of Arts, Science, &Tech, UTECH, Institute Of Mgmt. & Production, University of the West Indies
Other VOLUNTARY SERVICE includes, Past President - Holy Childhood Prep School Parent Teachers Association (PTA), Past President – Hydel Prep School PTA and Hydel Sports Committee, Past President – St. Richards Primary School, Past President – Sunrise Kindergarten and Nursery Schools, Board Member – Sunrise Kindergarten School
‘Y’ Speedos Swim Club, Jamaica Amateur Swimming Association, Jamaica Amateur Athletics Association, Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), Immaculate Conception High School PTA/Track & Field Team/Swimming and National Intercessory Prayer Network
Anderson has received several awards and recognitions including:
Florida Intercessory Prayer Ministry: Quality support in counselling and ministerial services
National Intercessory Prayer Network (NIPNOJ): Dedicated & Exemplary Service
Prophetic Group: Distinguished Kingdom Ambassador Award for outstanding service
Hospitality and intercession, Aglow Ministries, Jamaica (Kingston Chapter): Appreciation and quality service in ministry, Office of the Prime Minister (OPM): Appreciation dedicated and unbroken service, USEMBASSY/USAID: Ambassador’s Incentive Award in Leadership skills
Controller’s Trainer of Trainees Re-engineering Award, Controllers Recognition of Exemplary Service in the field of Hospitality, Controller’s Regional Incentive Award
Cash Incentive Awards, Long and dedicated Service to US EMBASSY/USAID Mission to Jamaica, Excellence in Service - Accounting Technician/Voucher Examiner.
Sharon Anderson is an avid reader, likes cooking, swimming, and sewing/needlecraft.
New Director Select’s winning theme for 2011
Kingston, Jamaica, January 28, 2011
By Trevesa DaSilva-Ashman and Michael Schurton
“Arise and Travail for Triumphant Change” is the call international intercessor Sharon Anderson has given to the international non-profit Ministry Word Time Ministries of Jamaica.
Anderson made this call in her winning submission for the Ministry’s theme for 2011. Anderson the Ministry’s newest Director said that Word Time Ministries was founded on prayer and faith and believed that a ministry committed to travailing in prayer, can make an even greater difference in effecting positive changes in the nation.
Anderson further stated that "given the challenges the ministry was faced with during 2010. Anderson further stated that “it’s high time for members to wake up from the past, arise from their slumber, arise from despair, arise to a new call of the Lord and walk in the season of triumphant change."
“ I am truly humbled and thankful to obeying the spirit of the Lord in proposing the theme." Anderson stated. She stated that the theme was not just selected for the Ministry but for the nation of Jamaica which needs to arise from its decades of decline - spiritually, morally, socially and financially.
Sharon Anderson joined the Ministry in 2011 and was firstly appointed as a special intercessors for the 10th Annual Sports Champs held in June 2010. Anderson was appointed special advisor to the Chairman on October 25, 2011. Anderson will be formally appointed as the Director for the portfolios of Sports and Community Relations at the 17th Annual General Meeting and Excellence Awards which is scheduled for Saturday, January 29, 2011 in Kingston, Jamaica starting at 11:00 AM.
Sharon Anderson joined the Ministry on April 7, 2010 with a wealth of experience in Ministry and work in the corporate field. She has held several positions senior positions with the US EMBASSY / USAID. These include: Senior Secretary, Director - Regional Housing and Urban Development (RHUDO), Administrative Secretary – Financial Controller and Financial Officer, Mission Coordinator – Religious Activities/Hospitality/Public Relations. Other positions include: Public Relations Officer, COURTLEIGH HOTEL & SUITES, Senior Secretary to the Executive Secretary and Administrative Assistant – Economic Analyst at the JAMAICA MANUFACTURERS’ ASSOCIATION, Administrative Assistant – Expo Manager, JMA/JEA EXPO
Anderson is an avid sports fan and also lends her expertise to several sporting association. She serves as Public Relations Facilitator, AMATEUR SWIMMING ASSOCIATION OF JAMAICA (ASAJ), Coordinator/Facilitator - Company Sponsored High School Swim Meets
Her work also extends to several governmental agencies, including Secretary, Claims Department, MINISTRY OF SOCIAL SECURITY, Executive Secretary,
National Council for the Aged, Executive Secretary, JAMAL
Anderson’s work in Ministry is extensive. She is Coordinator, Community Outreach Programme in St. Thomas/St. Mary/St. Elizabeth/Trelawny, Chaplain, Hospitality Manager, Immaculate Conception High Swim Team and Track & Field Team
She is the Founder of several organizations. These include Coordinators Plus – coordinators of seminars, conferences, weddings, Teleconference International Prayer Network, USA, Women Arise Ministries for Married Women and founder of SPA Ministries
She established Five Fold Ministry with emphasis on Evangelism where she has worked with both governmental and non-governmental agencies. Among these are:
- Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), - United Nations Development Program (UNDP)
- Development Bank of Jamaica, Ministry of Health, Destiny Barbers and Nail Technicians
- Bureau of Women’s Affairs, Government Archives & Records Units
Andersons has also held several positions in Ministry - Past President Whole Life Ministries Bible School, Past President, Whole Life Ministry Alumini Association, Past Teacher - Whole Life Ministries Bible School and Past Chaplain, Maverley Junior High School
Sharon Anderson is a Mentor, Counsellor, Motivational Speaker. She is a past student of St Andrew Technical High School. She has completed studies at Duffs Business College, College of Arts, Science, &Tech, UTECH, Institute Of Mgmt. & Production, University of the West Indies
Other VOLUNTARY SERVICE includes, Past President - Holy Childhood Prep School Parent Teachers Association (PTA), Past President – Hydel Prep School PTA and Hydel Sports Committee, Past President – St. Richards Primary School, Past President – Sunrise Kindergarten and Nursery Schools, Board Member – Sunrise Kindergarten School
‘Y’ Speedos Swim Club, Jamaica Amateur Swimming Association, Jamaica Amateur Athletics Association, Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), Immaculate Conception High School PTA/Track & Field Team/Swimming and National Intercessory Prayer Network
Anderson has received several awards and recognitions including:
Florida Intercessory Prayer Ministry: Quality support in counselling and ministerial services
National Intercessory Prayer Network (NIPNOJ): Dedicated & Exemplary Service
Prophetic Group: Distinguished Kingdom Ambassador Award for outstanding service
Hospitality and intercession, Aglow Ministries, Jamaica (Kingston Chapter): Appreciation and quality service in ministry, Office of the Prime Minister (OPM): Appreciation dedicated and unbroken service, USEMBASSY/USAID: Ambassador’s Incentive Award in Leadership skills
Controller’s Trainer of Trainees Re-engineering Award, Controllers Recognition of Exemplary Service in the field of Hospitality, Controller’s Regional Incentive Award
Cash Incentive Awards, Long and dedicated Service to US EMBASSY/USAID Mission to Jamaica, Excellence in Service - Accounting Technician/Voucher Examiner.
Sharon Anderson is an avid reader, likes cooking, swimming, and sewing/needlecraft.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Time to Arise
Time to Arise
by Matisse Lindo and Michael Schurton
The testing times of life
Unfold in dilemma of a new era-
Children are crying, and people are dying
Lost without hope
Not knowing how to cope.
Now is the time to arise
And make the difference with the living word
It is our shield. It is our sword.
We have made the decision
And this is our mission.
The Word gives us hope. It is our light.
It makes our future secure and bright
The Word has power to
Consume the devil’s plan
It’s time to arise, and take a stand.
The Bible is the greatest book
Why won’t men into its pages look?
Through it’s power it changes hearts,
It gives lives a brand new start.
Word Time Ministries, offers it to you
Accept it, it will make your life anew.
We come in the name of Jesus
To spread the Gospel to the nation
To save it’s people and make them a new creation
There is victory. The Lord is on our side.
Yes, the time has come, it’s time to arise.
by Matisse Lindo and Michael Schurton
The testing times of life
Unfold in dilemma of a new era-
Children are crying, and people are dying
Lost without hope
Not knowing how to cope.
Now is the time to arise
And make the difference with the living word
It is our shield. It is our sword.
We have made the decision
And this is our mission.
The Word gives us hope. It is our light.
It makes our future secure and bright
The Word has power to
Consume the devil’s plan
It’s time to arise, and take a stand.
The Bible is the greatest book
Why won’t men into its pages look?
Through it’s power it changes hearts,
It gives lives a brand new start.
Word Time Ministries, offers it to you
Accept it, it will make your life anew.
We come in the name of Jesus
To spread the Gospel to the nation
To save it’s people and make them a new creation
There is victory. The Lord is on our side.
Yes, the time has come, it’s time to arise.
How we change lives, By Roxanne Schurton
How we change lives
By Roxanne Schurton
When you receive a calling, an inspiration, a word
When its unlike anything you have ever heard
When purpose is implanted in a mind and heart
When a vision to change lives is the start
When your heart is steadfast and set on fire,
When nothing matters but your ever growing desire
When we recognize there’s no time to rest
And opposition and setbacks are only a test
When challenges come along the way
And the will to work by many seems to stray
When funds are low and the debts are high,
When your struggles are enough to make to cry
When its frustrating to many and a pleasure to a few
When there are just too many things for one person to do
Yet, you can rejoice and continue in ministry
In order to ensure you relieve someone else miser y
So few are willing to get on their knees and pray
And efforts have to be doubled and tripled every day
Even though some have lost their focus
While others cannot understand our God give purpose
It is only then you have a ministry called to save a nation
Destiny bound to proclaim the power of salvation
A ministry that will change lives and glorify the King
inspiring hope, making a difference and real change bring
Obeying the command to spread the word to the nation
Word Time ministries is helping many become a new creation
We are empowered and effect change by continuing what was started
Serving no matter how hard, making the effort wholehearted
Truly there is a cause, changing lives the way we can
By the spirit of the living God and His mighty hand
By Roxanne Schurton
When you receive a calling, an inspiration, a word
When its unlike anything you have ever heard
When purpose is implanted in a mind and heart
When a vision to change lives is the start
When your heart is steadfast and set on fire,
When nothing matters but your ever growing desire
When we recognize there’s no time to rest
And opposition and setbacks are only a test
When challenges come along the way
And the will to work by many seems to stray
When funds are low and the debts are high,
When your struggles are enough to make to cry
When its frustrating to many and a pleasure to a few
When there are just too many things for one person to do
Yet, you can rejoice and continue in ministry
In order to ensure you relieve someone else miser y
So few are willing to get on their knees and pray
And efforts have to be doubled and tripled every day
Even though some have lost their focus
While others cannot understand our God give purpose
It is only then you have a ministry called to save a nation
Destiny bound to proclaim the power of salvation
A ministry that will change lives and glorify the King
inspiring hope, making a difference and real change bring
Obeying the command to spread the word to the nation
Word Time ministries is helping many become a new creation
We are empowered and effect change by continuing what was started
Serving no matter how hard, making the effort wholehearted
Truly there is a cause, changing lives the way we can
By the spirit of the living God and His mighty hand
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Dennis Rushton to appear on BET Jazz
Dennis Rushton to appear on BET Jazz
January 20, 2011
A renowned Jamaican pianist, Dennis Rushton, has been featured among the world's top musicians, appearing on both the BET's Jazz channel and The Word Network , reaching an estimated audience of more than 200 million viewers in more than 150 countries.
He was included on the Best of Pegasus Jazz in the Gardens series, both in December 2008 and in December 2010. He is one of the judges for TVJ's All Together Sing and has performed for celebrities such as Wesley Snipes, Jasmine Guy, Dionne Warrick, and has opened concerts for Kirk Franklin, CeCe Winans, Alvin Slaughter, Shirley Ceasar, Papa San, among others.
In July 1999, Dennis was voted Best Instrumentalist at the Annual Tri-State Music Awards held in Long Island, New York.
In September 2010, he formed the band, The Dennis Rushton Q, which includes experienced musicians such as the lead vocalist Toni-Ann Baker, bass player Paul Madden, drummer James Valentine and guitarist Dwayne Livingston.
Dennis started learning classical piano at nine years old via the Royal Schools of Music programme, but in later years was introduced to other genres by Jon Williams, and was given performance tips from Paulette Bellamy and Marjorie Whylie.
He has entertained audiences in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Grand Cayman, Bahamas, Guyana, Grenada, Trinidad and Dominica.
He is a member of the Pembroke Hall table tennis team and serves as one of the team's executives.
January 20, 2011
A renowned Jamaican pianist, Dennis Rushton, has been featured among the world's top musicians, appearing on both the BET's Jazz channel and The Word Network , reaching an estimated audience of more than 200 million viewers in more than 150 countries.
He was included on the Best of Pegasus Jazz in the Gardens series, both in December 2008 and in December 2010. He is one of the judges for TVJ's All Together Sing and has performed for celebrities such as Wesley Snipes, Jasmine Guy, Dionne Warrick, and has opened concerts for Kirk Franklin, CeCe Winans, Alvin Slaughter, Shirley Ceasar, Papa San, among others.
In July 1999, Dennis was voted Best Instrumentalist at the Annual Tri-State Music Awards held in Long Island, New York.
In September 2010, he formed the band, The Dennis Rushton Q, which includes experienced musicians such as the lead vocalist Toni-Ann Baker, bass player Paul Madden, drummer James Valentine and guitarist Dwayne Livingston.
Dennis started learning classical piano at nine years old via the Royal Schools of Music programme, but in later years was introduced to other genres by Jon Williams, and was given performance tips from Paulette Bellamy and Marjorie Whylie.
He has entertained audiences in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Grand Cayman, Bahamas, Guyana, Grenada, Trinidad and Dominica.
He is a member of the Pembroke Hall table tennis team and serves as one of the team's executives.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Natale's story of Healing and Courage...Healed of rare brain tumour
Natale's story of Healing and Courage...Healed of rare brain tumour
Michael Schurton
January 15, 2011
Miracles still do happen. Healing is still an experience for many who truly believe. This is the life changing experience of my friend and neighbour Chris. Today Chris is a living example of a great story of the power of healing and the display of courage. Natale Aiello, affectionately called Chris, was faced with a major health crisis four years ago. But today Chris is healthy and strong and enjoying his favourite pastime caring for his garden and ours too.
We have been neighbours for the last five years. Chris, his family and I reside in a wonderful suburb of the Highlands of Castlemore located at the border of the Cities of Brampton and Caledon in Ontario Canada. Last Saturday, January 8, 2011, I was honoured to be invited to a wonderful celebration for Chris, his milestone 65th surprised birthday event. It was a wonderful event filled with emotion, affection, love and respect for a father, husband, uncle, grand-father, friend and neighbour. Not only that the hall was filled with great company and an abundant array of delightful food.
It was indeed a fitting celebration for a great man who has survived so many challenges. Chris was basically active and hard working. But then came a period of testing.
According to his wife, Sylvia Aiello, she recalls that the headaches started about four years ago. She said that her husband Natale would cry out in pain, day and night.
They spent a year in and out of emergency rooms and specialty clinics trying to find out what was wrong. Nothing worked. Then they discovered St. Michael’s Foundation. St. Michael’s Foundation supports the extraordinary work of one of the largest and best teaching hospitals in Canada, St. Michael’s Hospital. St. Michael’s Foundation helps the hospital fulfill its mission as Toronto’s Urban Angel, providing compassionate, innovative care for all in need.
And indeed Chris truly discovered compassionate and innovative care at St. Michael’s Hospital.
Chris and his family now have high praise and tremendous respect for the people at St. Michael’s. Today they call Dr. Jennifer Anderson and Dr. Michael Cusimano “miracle workers.” That’s because Dr. Cusimano knew the right tests to administer. And these tests led to an accurate diagnosis – an extremely rare chordoma brain tumour that literally invades the spinal column and replaces it with a tumour growth.
It had gotten so bad that the tumour was actually holding up Natale’s head,” says Sylvia.
Natale underwent three very risky surgeries to remove the tumour. Drs. Anderson and Cusimano worked together to remove the tumour through the nasal cavity, a first-in-the-world procedure. They also did a high-risk spinal fusion operation that, if unsuccessful, Natale would have lost his mobility.
“We are so grateful to Dr. Cusimano and Dr. Anderson who performed a miracle for us. And we’re especially thankful to donors to St. Michael’s – thanks to their generous support, the Hospital had the special equipment they needed to help Natale. In our darkest days, everyone gave us a special gift – hope.”
Sylvia Natale says she is so thankful for the prayers and support of family and friends and many others who gave their support to the family during the ordeal. She also is grateful for the financial donation towards St. Michael’s Foundation. She says “we’re especially thankful to donors to St. Michael’s – thanks to their generous support, the Hospital had the special equipment they needed to help Natale.”
Today Chris is back in his favourite place his garden and also our garden as we lovingly cares for both garden, lawn and drive ways.
Last Saturday he was the first one out to help shovel the snow from the dive way. Then a group of us join in and shovel the drive way.. After that Chris invited us for a drink and we all willing oblige, not letting anything thing on that we would be celebrating with his at his surprise birthday event hours later. Alex, Rob, John and I all had a good time of fun as Chris talked about his birthday and gave us lots of jokes.
Truly there is power in prayer and today we can celebrate the courage of Chris, a man who has survived insurmountable obstacles. Chris is now celebrating a full life also filled with many, many memories too wonderful to ever forget.
Michael Schurton
January 15, 2011
Miracles still do happen. Healing is still an experience for many who truly believe. This is the life changing experience of my friend and neighbour Chris. Today Chris is a living example of a great story of the power of healing and the display of courage. Natale Aiello, affectionately called Chris, was faced with a major health crisis four years ago. But today Chris is healthy and strong and enjoying his favourite pastime caring for his garden and ours too.
We have been neighbours for the last five years. Chris, his family and I reside in a wonderful suburb of the Highlands of Castlemore located at the border of the Cities of Brampton and Caledon in Ontario Canada. Last Saturday, January 8, 2011, I was honoured to be invited to a wonderful celebration for Chris, his milestone 65th surprised birthday event. It was a wonderful event filled with emotion, affection, love and respect for a father, husband, uncle, grand-father, friend and neighbour. Not only that the hall was filled with great company and an abundant array of delightful food.
It was indeed a fitting celebration for a great man who has survived so many challenges. Chris was basically active and hard working. But then came a period of testing.
According to his wife, Sylvia Aiello, she recalls that the headaches started about four years ago. She said that her husband Natale would cry out in pain, day and night.
They spent a year in and out of emergency rooms and specialty clinics trying to find out what was wrong. Nothing worked. Then they discovered St. Michael’s Foundation. St. Michael’s Foundation supports the extraordinary work of one of the largest and best teaching hospitals in Canada, St. Michael’s Hospital. St. Michael’s Foundation helps the hospital fulfill its mission as Toronto’s Urban Angel, providing compassionate, innovative care for all in need.
And indeed Chris truly discovered compassionate and innovative care at St. Michael’s Hospital.
Chris and his family now have high praise and tremendous respect for the people at St. Michael’s. Today they call Dr. Jennifer Anderson and Dr. Michael Cusimano “miracle workers.” That’s because Dr. Cusimano knew the right tests to administer. And these tests led to an accurate diagnosis – an extremely rare chordoma brain tumour that literally invades the spinal column and replaces it with a tumour growth.
It had gotten so bad that the tumour was actually holding up Natale’s head,” says Sylvia.
Natale underwent three very risky surgeries to remove the tumour. Drs. Anderson and Cusimano worked together to remove the tumour through the nasal cavity, a first-in-the-world procedure. They also did a high-risk spinal fusion operation that, if unsuccessful, Natale would have lost his mobility.
“We are so grateful to Dr. Cusimano and Dr. Anderson who performed a miracle for us. And we’re especially thankful to donors to St. Michael’s – thanks to their generous support, the Hospital had the special equipment they needed to help Natale. In our darkest days, everyone gave us a special gift – hope.”
Sylvia Natale says she is so thankful for the prayers and support of family and friends and many others who gave their support to the family during the ordeal. She also is grateful for the financial donation towards St. Michael’s Foundation. She says “we’re especially thankful to donors to St. Michael’s – thanks to their generous support, the Hospital had the special equipment they needed to help Natale.”
Today Chris is back in his favourite place his garden and also our garden as we lovingly cares for both garden, lawn and drive ways.
Last Saturday he was the first one out to help shovel the snow from the dive way. Then a group of us join in and shovel the drive way.. After that Chris invited us for a drink and we all willing oblige, not letting anything thing on that we would be celebrating with his at his surprise birthday event hours later. Alex, Rob, John and I all had a good time of fun as Chris talked about his birthday and gave us lots of jokes.
Truly there is power in prayer and today we can celebrate the courage of Chris, a man who has survived insurmountable obstacles. Chris is now celebrating a full life also filled with many, many memories too wonderful to ever forget.
Natale's story of Healing and Courage...Healed of rare brain tumour
Natale's story of Healing and Courage...Healed of rare brain tumour
Michael Schurton
January 15, 2011
Miracles still do happen. Healing is still an experience for many who truly believe. This is the life changing experience of my friend and neighbour Chris. Today Chris is a living example of a great story of the power of healing and the display of courage. Natale Aiello, affectionately called Chris, was faced with a major health crisis four years ago. But today Chris is healthy and strong and enjoying his favourite pastime caring for his garden and ours too.
We have been neighbours for the last five years. Chris, his family and I reside in a wonderful suburb of the Highlands of Castlemore located at the border of the Cities of Brampton and Caledon in Ontario Canada. Last Saturday, January 8, 201, I was honoured to be invited to a wonderful celebration for Chris, his milestone 65th surprised birthday event. It was a wonderful event filled with emotion, affection, love and respect for a father, husband, uncle, grand-father, friend and neighbour. Not only that the hall was filled with great company and an abundant array of delightful food.
It was indeed a fitting celebration for a great man who has survived so many challenges. Chris was basically active and hard working. But then came a period of testing.
According to his wife, Sylvia Aiello, she recalls that the headaches started about four years ago. She said that her husband Natale would cry out in pain, day and night.
They spent a year in and out of emergency rooms and specialty clinics trying to find out what was wrong. Nothing worked. Then they discovered St. Michael’s Foundation. St. Michael’s Foundation supports the extraordinary work of one of the largest and best teaching hospitals in Canada, St. Michael’s Hospital. St. Michael’s Foundation helps the hospital fulfill its mission as Toronto’s Urban Angel, providing compassionate, innovative care for all in need.
And indeed Chris truly discovered compassionate and innovative care at St. Michael’s Hospital.
Chris and his family now have high praise and tremendous respect for the people at St. Michael’s. Today they call Dr. Jennifer Anderson and Dr. Michael Cusimano “miracle workers.” That’s because Dr. Cusimano knew the right tests to administer. And these tests led to an accurate diagnosis – an extremely rare chordoma brain tumour that literally invades the spinal column and replaces it with a tumour growth.
It had gotten so bad that the tumour was actually holding up Natale’s head,” says Sylvia.
Natale underwent three very risky surgeries to remove the tumour. Drs. Anderson and Cusimano worked together to remove the tumour through the nasal cavity, a first-in-the-world procedure. They also did a high-risk spinal fusion operation that, if unsuccessful, Natale would have lost his mobility.
“We are so grateful to Dr. Cusimano and Dr. Anderson who performed a miracle for us. And we’re especially thankful to donors to St. Michael’s – thanks to their generous support, the Hospital had the special equipment they needed to help Natale. In our darkest days, everyone gave us a special gift – hope.”
Sylvia Natale says she is so thankful for the prayers and support of family and friends and many others who gave their support to the family during the ordeal. She also is grateful for the financial donation towards St. Michael’s Foundation. She says “we’re especially thankful to donors to St. Michael’s – thanks to their generous support, the Hospital had the special equipment they needed to help Natale.”
Today Chris is back in his favourite place his garden and also our garden as we lovingly cares for both garden, lawn and drive ways.
Last Saturday he was the first one out to help shovel the snow from the dive way. Then a group of us join in and shovel the drive way. After that Chris invited us for a drink and we all willing oblige, not letting anything thing on that we would be celebrating with his at his surprise birthday event hours later.
Truly there is power in prayer and today we can celebrate the courage of Chris, a man who has survived insurmountable obstacles. Chris is now celebrating a full life also filled with many, many memories too wonderful to ever forget.
Michael Schurton
January 15, 2011
Miracles still do happen. Healing is still an experience for many who truly believe. This is the life changing experience of my friend and neighbour Chris. Today Chris is a living example of a great story of the power of healing and the display of courage. Natale Aiello, affectionately called Chris, was faced with a major health crisis four years ago. But today Chris is healthy and strong and enjoying his favourite pastime caring for his garden and ours too.
We have been neighbours for the last five years. Chris, his family and I reside in a wonderful suburb of the Highlands of Castlemore located at the border of the Cities of Brampton and Caledon in Ontario Canada. Last Saturday, January 8, 201, I was honoured to be invited to a wonderful celebration for Chris, his milestone 65th surprised birthday event. It was a wonderful event filled with emotion, affection, love and respect for a father, husband, uncle, grand-father, friend and neighbour. Not only that the hall was filled with great company and an abundant array of delightful food.
It was indeed a fitting celebration for a great man who has survived so many challenges. Chris was basically active and hard working. But then came a period of testing.
According to his wife, Sylvia Aiello, she recalls that the headaches started about four years ago. She said that her husband Natale would cry out in pain, day and night.
They spent a year in and out of emergency rooms and specialty clinics trying to find out what was wrong. Nothing worked. Then they discovered St. Michael’s Foundation. St. Michael’s Foundation supports the extraordinary work of one of the largest and best teaching hospitals in Canada, St. Michael’s Hospital. St. Michael’s Foundation helps the hospital fulfill its mission as Toronto’s Urban Angel, providing compassionate, innovative care for all in need.
And indeed Chris truly discovered compassionate and innovative care at St. Michael’s Hospital.
Chris and his family now have high praise and tremendous respect for the people at St. Michael’s. Today they call Dr. Jennifer Anderson and Dr. Michael Cusimano “miracle workers.” That’s because Dr. Cusimano knew the right tests to administer. And these tests led to an accurate diagnosis – an extremely rare chordoma brain tumour that literally invades the spinal column and replaces it with a tumour growth.
It had gotten so bad that the tumour was actually holding up Natale’s head,” says Sylvia.
Natale underwent three very risky surgeries to remove the tumour. Drs. Anderson and Cusimano worked together to remove the tumour through the nasal cavity, a first-in-the-world procedure. They also did a high-risk spinal fusion operation that, if unsuccessful, Natale would have lost his mobility.
“We are so grateful to Dr. Cusimano and Dr. Anderson who performed a miracle for us. And we’re especially thankful to donors to St. Michael’s – thanks to their generous support, the Hospital had the special equipment they needed to help Natale. In our darkest days, everyone gave us a special gift – hope.”
Sylvia Natale says she is so thankful for the prayers and support of family and friends and many others who gave their support to the family during the ordeal. She also is grateful for the financial donation towards St. Michael’s Foundation. She says “we’re especially thankful to donors to St. Michael’s – thanks to their generous support, the Hospital had the special equipment they needed to help Natale.”
Today Chris is back in his favourite place his garden and also our garden as we lovingly cares for both garden, lawn and drive ways.
Last Saturday he was the first one out to help shovel the snow from the dive way. Then a group of us join in and shovel the drive way. After that Chris invited us for a drink and we all willing oblige, not letting anything thing on that we would be celebrating with his at his surprise birthday event hours later.
Truly there is power in prayer and today we can celebrate the courage of Chris, a man who has survived insurmountable obstacles. Chris is now celebrating a full life also filled with many, many memories too wonderful to ever forget.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Jamaican appointed to Canadian Senate
Jamaican appointed to Canadian Senate
REVEREND Don Meredith has created history in becoming the first Jamaican and the fourth black person to be appointed to the Senate in Canada.
Prime Minister of Canada Stephen Harper, who announced the appointment of Rev Meredith and former Canadian Football League Commissioner, Larry Smith to the Senate on December 20, said that "both are well regarded and visible figures in their communities, who will bring a wealth of experience in business, philanthropy, sport and community initiatives to their new role as senators".
Rev Don Meredith fills a vacancy in Ontario. Prime Minister Harper said he is looking forward to working with the two new appointees, who "have pledged to support the government in its efforts to make the senate more democratic and accountable, including (passing) legislation to limit senate tenure and to allow provinces to elect their Senators."
Speaking to JIS News recently, Rev Meredith -- who is Pastor of the Pentecostal Praise Centre in Ontario -- said that he was very excited, humbled and proud to serve as a Canadian Senator, and called the appointment a "gift from the Lord".
The 47-year-old, who hails from the parish of St Ann, is a strong community leader and advocate and has volunteered his service to several groups. Among them are Black Community Police Consultative Committee; York Region Police Chief's Advisory Committee; Toronto Police Service Chief's Advisory Service; York Regional Community Police Liaison; Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Consultative Committee; and B'Nai Brith Special Advisory Council to the League for Human Rights.
He is the recipient of many awards for his outstanding work, including the Urban Leadership Award from the Canadian Urban Institute and the Toronto Police Service 13 Division Community Service Award.
The businessman, who owns a landscaping business, is also passionate about assisting young people, which he does through the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) Faith Alliance that he co-founded and now serves as Executive Director.
The interfaith group was formed in 2002 in response to the escalating violence among young black males in the community. It places focus on education and recently opened a community centre to train young people in computer software and repair. The goal is to open another 69 centres across the GTA, Rev Meredith said.
"Government agencies and police sometimes don't have the solutions and they are looking to the faith community to lend support rather than throwing negative remarks," the pastor said.
"It's incumbent upon us, when we look at the situation of our young black males being killed that our leaders have got to stand and step up to the plate and say we are not here to criticise, but to help," he added.
According to Rev Meredith, young people are being influenced by negative behaviours, which are pulling them away from the core values of self-respect, self-dignity, self-esteem and pride, and they need guidance in order to realise their true potential.
"They are looking for guidance and someone to love them and appreciate them and sometimes they look for those things in the wrong places. As leaders, we need to become surrogate fathers to those young males and females and teach them how they should present themselves. What's lacking in our society today is that young people are not being raised with the same value system we were raised with," he argued.
Born in Rhoden Hall, St Ann, a stone's throw from the birthplace of reggae icon Bob Marley, Rev Meredith migrated to Canada in 1976 at the age of 12 and committed his life to the Lord two years later. A graduate of Weston Collegiate Institute in Toronto, he attended several post-secondary institutions and holds a master's degree in theology from the California State Christian University.
REVEREND Don Meredith has created history in becoming the first Jamaican and the fourth black person to be appointed to the Senate in Canada.
Prime Minister of Canada Stephen Harper, who announced the appointment of Rev Meredith and former Canadian Football League Commissioner, Larry Smith to the Senate on December 20, said that "both are well regarded and visible figures in their communities, who will bring a wealth of experience in business, philanthropy, sport and community initiatives to their new role as senators".
Rev Don Meredith fills a vacancy in Ontario. Prime Minister Harper said he is looking forward to working with the two new appointees, who "have pledged to support the government in its efforts to make the senate more democratic and accountable, including (passing) legislation to limit senate tenure and to allow provinces to elect their Senators."
Speaking to JIS News recently, Rev Meredith -- who is Pastor of the Pentecostal Praise Centre in Ontario -- said that he was very excited, humbled and proud to serve as a Canadian Senator, and called the appointment a "gift from the Lord".
The 47-year-old, who hails from the parish of St Ann, is a strong community leader and advocate and has volunteered his service to several groups. Among them are Black Community Police Consultative Committee; York Region Police Chief's Advisory Committee; Toronto Police Service Chief's Advisory Service; York Regional Community Police Liaison; Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Consultative Committee; and B'Nai Brith Special Advisory Council to the League for Human Rights.
He is the recipient of many awards for his outstanding work, including the Urban Leadership Award from the Canadian Urban Institute and the Toronto Police Service 13 Division Community Service Award.
The businessman, who owns a landscaping business, is also passionate about assisting young people, which he does through the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) Faith Alliance that he co-founded and now serves as Executive Director.
The interfaith group was formed in 2002 in response to the escalating violence among young black males in the community. It places focus on education and recently opened a community centre to train young people in computer software and repair. The goal is to open another 69 centres across the GTA, Rev Meredith said.
"Government agencies and police sometimes don't have the solutions and they are looking to the faith community to lend support rather than throwing negative remarks," the pastor said.
"It's incumbent upon us, when we look at the situation of our young black males being killed that our leaders have got to stand and step up to the plate and say we are not here to criticise, but to help," he added.
According to Rev Meredith, young people are being influenced by negative behaviours, which are pulling them away from the core values of self-respect, self-dignity, self-esteem and pride, and they need guidance in order to realise their true potential.
"They are looking for guidance and someone to love them and appreciate them and sometimes they look for those things in the wrong places. As leaders, we need to become surrogate fathers to those young males and females and teach them how they should present themselves. What's lacking in our society today is that young people are not being raised with the same value system we were raised with," he argued.
Born in Rhoden Hall, St Ann, a stone's throw from the birthplace of reggae icon Bob Marley, Rev Meredith migrated to Canada in 1976 at the age of 12 and committed his life to the Lord two years later. A graduate of Weston Collegiate Institute in Toronto, he attended several post-secondary institutions and holds a master's degree in theology from the California State Christian University.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)