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West Indies Gets Ready To Face India On Home Turf

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. June 16, 2023: Get ready for an exciting summer of cricket as the West Indies take on India in the Caribbean and Florida from July through August.

Cricket West Indies (CWI) has unveiled the highly anticipated match schedule and venues for the upcoming West Indies versus India Men’s Series set to take place in July and August. The series will feature a range of thrilling matches, including Test matches, One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20 Internationals (T20Is).

The action kicks off with two Test matches, which are part of the 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship. The first Test match will be held at Windsor Park in Dominica from 12th to 16th July. Following that, the historic 100th Test match between West Indies and India will take place at Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad from 20th to 24th July.

FLASHBACK – Members of the India team celebrate after winning the fourth T20I match between West Indies and India at the Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill, Florida, on August 6, 2022. (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA/AFP via Getty Images)

After the Test Series, the focus will shift to the CG United One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20 Internationals (T20Is). The CG United ODI Series begins with the first and second matches at Kensington Oval in Barbados on 27th and 29th July. The series will conclude on 1st August at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad, which will be hosting a West Indies Men’s ODI for the first time.

The T20Is will commence on 3rd August at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy. The second and third T20Is will be held at the Guyana National Stadium on 6th and 8th August. The T20I series will culminate in Lauderhill, Florida, with a thrilling weekend of back-to-back matches on 12th and 13th August at Broward County Cricket Stadium.

Johnny Grave, CEO of CWI, expressed his excitement about the upcoming series, particularly highlighting the significance of the 100th Test match at Queen’s Park Oval. He also emphasized the organization’s commitment to providing an entertaining experience for cricket fans across the region and in the United States.

Official West Indies Tour Operator packages, including match tickets, will be announced soon. Ticket sales will be available through the Windies Tickets service, presented by Mastercard, on the Windiescricket.com website starting from Tuesday, 20th June. Fans can sign up to receive updates and be the first to know when tickets go on sale.

The schedule for the West Indies versus India Men’s Series is as follows:

Test Matches:

12th-16th July: 1st Test Match at Windsor Park, Dominica
20th-24th July: 2nd Test Match (100th Test) at Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad
CG United ODIs:

27th July: 1st CG United ODI at Kensington Oval, Barbados
29th July: 2nd CG United ODI at Kensington Oval, Barbados
1st August: 3rd CG United ODI at Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad
T20 Internationals:

3rd August: 1st T20I at Brian Lara Cricket Academy, Trinidad
6th August: 2nd T20I at National Stadium, Guyana
8th August: 3rd T20I at National Stadium, Guyana
12th August: 4th T20I at Broward County Stadium, Lauderhill, Florida
13th August: 5th T20I at Broward County Stadium, Lauderhill, Florida

Reggae Boyz Face Crucial Friendly Matches Ahead of Concacaf Gold Cup

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. June 6, 2023: Damion Lowe, the vice-captain of the Jamaican national senior football team, the Reggae Boyz, emphasizes the significance of the upcoming friendly international matches against Qatar and Jordan for the Boyz’s preparations for the Concacaf Gold Cup this summer.

Scheduled for June 15th and June 19th at the Wiener Neustadt Ergo Arena in Austria, these matches hold vital importance for the senior Boyz. Lowe, an integral part of the national side for the past five years, emphasizes the need for consistent play, team cohesion, and strategic preparation heading into the tournament.

FLASHBACK: Damion Lowe (L) and Dexter Lembikisa (C) of Jamaica fight for the ball with Orbelin Pineda (R) of Mexico during the match between Mexico and Jamaica as part of the CONCACAF Nations League at Azteca on March 26, 2023 in Mexico City, Mexico. (Photo by Jaime Lopez/Jam Media/Getty Images)

While winning is desirable, Lowe believes the primary focus should be on establishing a team identity, understanding the system, and developing camaraderie among teammates. As a tough-tackling defender, Lowe has earned 48 appearances for the Reggae Boyz since his debut in 2016. Currently playing in Major League Soccer for the Philadelphia Union, he eagerly anticipates representing his country in both matches and the upcoming Gold Cup tournament.

Reggae Boyz Head Coach Heimir Hallgrimsson emphasizes that these friendly matches provide an opportunity for players to secure their spots in the Gold Cup squad. While points won’t be awarded in these games, Hallgrimsson believes they are essential for players to showcase their abilities and fight for their positions. The coach expresses optimism about the team’s performance and emphasizes the seriousness with which they approach these matches as their sole preparation for the Gold Cup.

The 2023 Gold Cup, scheduled from June 24th to July 16th, will take place in the United States and Canada. The Jamaican team is determined to make their mark and improve upon their previous achievements in the tournament.

Victor Wembanyama, Son Of An African Immigrant Father, Is Headed To The Spurs

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By NAN Sports Writer

News Americas, SAN ANTONIO, TX, Weds. May 17, 2023: In an exhilarating NBA Draft Lottery, the San Antonio Spurs emerged victorious, securing the right to draft the highly talented French player, Victor Wembanyama, 19 who stands at an incredible 7′ 2″. This exciting news not only signifies a potential game-changer for the Spurs but also sheds light on Wembanyama’s captivating background, with his father, Felix, a former track and field athlete who competed in the high jump, long jump and triple jump hailing from the Democratic Republic of Congo in Africa.

Felix Wembanyama established personal records in the triple jump (15.56 meters) and long jump (7.41 meters), as well as running the 100 meters in 11 seconds. He migrated to France to complete his university education and later met and married the French born Elodie de Fautereau.

The couple have three kids, including Victor. de Fautereau is a basketball coach at Gymnase La Varenne in Noisy-le-Grand, who taught her son the game.

Victor Wembanyama #1 of Boulogne-Levallois Metropolitans 92 shoots a free throw during the first half of a preseason game against G League Ignite at The Dollar Loan Center on October 4, 2022 in Henderson, Nevada (Photo by Chris Unger for The Washington Post via Getty Images)

The Spurs’ triumph in the NBA Draft Lottery sets the stage for a promising future as they prepare to welcome the extraordinary skills of this son of an African immigrant to their roster. Standing at an impressive 7 feet and possessing a remarkable skill set, Wembanyama has garnered attention as one of the most promising basketball talents in recent years.

Amidst this thrilling victory, it is essential to recognize the unique journey that has led Wembanyama to this moment. Born to a Congolese father, his heritage adds a layer of richness to his story and serves as a testament to the global impact of basketball. It is a reminder of the importance of immigrants and that talent and potential can emerge from diverse backgrounds and inspire fans worldwide.

The San Antonio Spurs organization is renowned for its ability to identify and nurture talent, and the opportunity to draft Wembanyama aligns perfectly with their commitment to excellence. As they prepare to welcome this rising star, the Spurs are poised to make a significant impact in the league and continue their legacy of success.

Wembanyama’s journey from France to the NBA spotlight is a testament to the power of dreams, dedication, and hard work. His remarkable skills and unique background make him an exciting prospect, not only for the San Antonio Spurs but for the entire basketball community.

As the NBA Draft approaches, all eyes will be on the San Antonio Spurs and the potential they hold in shaping the career of Victor Wembanyama. The anticipation is palpable, and fans eagerly await the next chapter in this incredible story.

Caribbean Fighter Secures Unanimous Victory At UFC Charlotte

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News Americas, CHARLOTTE, NC, Sun. May 14, 2023: In an impressive display of skill and determination, Caribbean fighter Karl Williams emerged victorious with a unanimous decision – 30-27, 30-27, 29-28 – over Chase Sherman at UFC Charlotte.

Hailing from the picturesque Caribbean island of the US Virgin Islands, Williams showcased his fighting prowess and made his mark on the UFC stage. He improves to 2-0 in the UFC.

(L-R) Karl Williams of the U.S. Virgin Islands punches Chase Sherman in their heavyweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at Spectrum Center on May 13, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Born and raised in St. Thomas, USVI, Williams has made his presence felt in the competitive world of mixed martial arts. His recent victory over Chase Sherman at UFC Charlotte highlights his immense talent and the growing influence of Caribbean fighters in the UFC. Williams’ success serves as an inspiration to aspiring fighters from the Caribbean and beyond.

The fight against Chase Sherman showcased Williams’ technical skills and strategic approach. Throughout the match, Williams demonstrated excellent striking abilities, precise footwork, and effective takedown defense. His resilience and determination were evident as he weathered Sherman’s attacks and responded with calculated counterstrikes.

The victory at UFC Charlotte not only cements Williams’ position as a rising star but also shines a spotlight on the potential of fighters from the Caribbean region.

As Williams celebrates his well-deserved victory at UFC Charlotte, the Caribbean community rejoices in his success. His triumph not only elevates his personal career but also brings attention to the talent and potential that exists in the Caribbean fighting scene.

This Caribbean Fighter Is Ready For UFC Fight Night: Charlotte

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By NAN News Editor

News Americas, CHARLOTTE, NC, Fri. May 12, 2023: Get ready for the rumble in Charlotte tomorrow night as a Caribbean fighter gears up for UFC Fight Night: Charlotte.

St. Thomas, USVI-born Karl Williams will make his second octagon appearance against division mainstay Chase Sherman. This bout was scheduled to happen at UFC 287, but medical issues during the weight cut called for cancellation.

Karl Williams of the U.S. Virgin Islands poses on the scale during the UFC Fight Night official weigh-in at the Sonesta Charlotte hotel on May 12, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

Williams is 8-1 in his mixed martial arts career and will be seeing his second appearance in the UFC after winning his debut fight against Lukasz Brzeski.

He is a tremendous wrestler and managed eight takedowns en route to a unanimous decision win. Williams’ skills look to be a serious problem in this division and he’ll welcome a step-up in competition as he faces a UFC vet in Sherman. He stands 6’3″ with a 79-inch reach.

Bahamas-Born NBA Star Deandre Ayton Out Of Game 6 Of NBA Playoffs

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Thurs. May 11, 2023: Bahamas born Deandre Ayton, the talented center for the Phoenix Suns, will unfortunately miss Game 6 of the NBA Playoffs tonight due to a rib contusion.

Ayton was ruled out of Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals series against the Denver Nuggets, who lead the series 3-2, due to a rib contusion, according to The Athletic’s Shams Charania. It’s unclear if he’ll be able to return this series, should the Suns extend it to a Game 7.

Ayton has become a rising star in the NBA. His journey from the Bahamas to the grand stage of professional basketball has inspired many in his home country. Ayton’s success serves as a testament to the talent and potential found within the Bahamian sporting community.

Ayton’s presence in the NBA Playoffs has been remarkable, with his stellar performances contributing to the Phoenix Suns’ success. Despite the setback of the rib contusion, Ayton’s impact on the court and his resilience in the face of challenges have earned him respect and admiration from fans worldwide.

For Bahamians, Ayton’s journey serves as a source of inspiration, showcasing the possibilities that lie within their own communities. His success resonates deeply, as it highlights the potential for greatness that exists within the Bahamas and underscores the importance of nurturing and supporting young talent in the region.

As Ayton continues to recover from his injury, the Bahamian community eagerly awaits his return to the court. His presence not only represents the aspirations of a talented athlete but also symbolizes the pride and unity of the Bahamian people.

In a region known for its passion for basketball, Ayton’s achievements have elevated the sport’s popularity and inspired a new generation of aspiring players. His story serves as a reminder that with dedication, perseverance, and a supportive community, dreams can be realized, even from humble beginnings.

The support for Ayton extends beyond the borders of the Bahamas, as Caribbean nations rally behind one of their own. His success reinforces the Caribbean’s rich athletic legacy and serves as a reminder of the immense talent that emerges from the region.

As Game 6 unfolds without Ayton’s presence, his Bahamian roots continue to shine brightly, reminding the world of the contributions and potential of Caribbean athletes in the global sporting arena.

Guyanese, Latin American Roots Athletes Win At Colgate Women’s Games

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News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Mon. May 8, 2023: A Caribbean and a Latin American heritage athlete this past weekend claimed gold in the 48th Annual Colgate Women’s Games, which were held on May 7th at Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island in New York.

Kunusasha Medas-King, a young athlete of Guyanese descent, won the CWG’s Elementary B 800-meter run, which is a testament to her success as a distance runner. She is a Colgate Games veteran and has been nationally ranked for her best performances, thanks to the coaching of her father, Guyana-born Andy Medas-King.

Prizila Negrete, whose roots extend to Honduras, throws in the Colgate Women’s Games HS Shot Put event at the Semi-Finals at Queens College, NYC. (Photo by Elliot Mangual/Colgate-Palmolive)

Prizila Negrete, a high school scholar and athlete of Honduran roots at The Ursuline School in New Rochelle, N.Y., won the shot put event at the games, and was a top point scorer in the CWG’s HS Shot Put after the Semi-Finals. She holds dual citizenship in both the U.S. and Honduras, and because of this, she will be competing with the Honduran National team this year. “I trained with them last summer when I went to Honduras. And the first meet that I’m scheduled to compete for Honduras is the Central American Games in Guatemala, Under 18 age group, in June,” she said. Upon graduation from high school, she will be attending Bucknell University in Pennsylvania, with help from an athletic scholarship.

Nearly 300 of the nation’s top young female track and field athletes, and future stars, from the U.S. East Coast competed in the finals. Following three weeks of exciting preliminary and semi-finals competition at Queens College, the top eight runners, high jumpers, and shot putters in each category competed for trophies and more than 100 educational scholarships from the sponsoring Colgate-Palmolive Company. Scholarship values doubled this year to $2,000, $1,000, and $500, respectively.

In addition to thrilling competition, this year’s Colgate Women’s Games finals featured a marching band, special award presentations, and complimentary Colgate-Palmolive health and hygiene products for guests, while quantities last. Finalists also received complimentary refreshments from event supporter, ShopRite.

Colgate-Palmolive has been the title sponsor of Colgate Women’s Games for nearly 50 years, supporting the program since its founding in 1974 by legendary Brooklyn track coach, the late Fred Thompson. Attendance was free, but tickets were required to attend the finals. The event started at 10 a.m. and concluded at 3 p.m.

Caribbean Heritage Athlete For 48th Annual Colgate Women’s Games Finals

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Latest Caribbean And Latin America News from News America – The Black Immigrant Daily

By Eva Dilmanian and Jared McCallister

CARIBPR WIRE, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. May 2, 2023: A Caribbean heritage athlete has solidified her place for the finals of the 48th Annual Colgate Women’s Games, set for Sunday, May 7th at Icahn Stadium on Randall’s Island in New York.

Colgate Women’s Games runner, Caribbean roots Kushanna Medas-King, completing her race at Queens College. (Photo by Elliot Mangual/Colgate-Palmolive)

Guyana-rooted Kushanna Medas-King is leading CWG’s Elementary B 800-meter run. Already an accomplished distance runner at her young age, Kushanna is a Colgate Games veteran, who also competes in events across the U.S, and has been nationally ranked for her best performances, thanks to the coaching of her father, Guyana- born Andy Medas-King.

Prizila Negrete, whose roots extend to Honduras, throws in the Colgate Women’s Games HS Shot Put event at the Semi-Finals at Queens College, NYC. (Photo by Elliot Mangual/Colgate-Palmolive)

The finals will be a melting pot of competitors. Nearly 300 of the nation’s top young female track and field athletes, and future stars, from the U.S. East Coast will compete. Among them is also Central American heritage high school scholar and athlete Prizila Negrete of The Ursuline School in New Rochelle, N.Y. She was a top point scorer in the CWG’s HS Shot Put after the Semi-Finals.  Her parents were born in Honduras and because she holds dual citizenship in both the U.S. and Honduras, Prizila will be competing with the Honduran National team this year.

Westchester Track Officials chose the Colgate Semi-Finals to present Honduras roots Prizila Negrete — flanked by her parents (l.to r.) Wendy Suazo and Miguel Negrete of Honduras — with an award for her high school performance during the indoor season. (Photo by Elliot Mangual/Colgate-Palmolive)

“I trained with them last summer when I went to Honduras. And the first meet that I’m scheduled to compete for Honduras is the Central American Games in Guatemala, Under 18 age group, in June,” she said. Upon graduation from high school, she will be attending Bucknell University in Pennsylvania, with help from an athletic scholarship.

Following three weeks of exciting preliminary and semi-finals competition at Queens College, the top eight runners, high jumpers and shot putters in each category will compete for trophies and more than 100 educational scholarships from the sponsoring Colgate-Palmolive Company.  Scholarship values have doubled this year to $2,000, $1,000, and $500, respectively.

In addition to thrilling competition, this year’s Colgate Women’s Games finals will feature a marching band, special award presentations, and complimentary Colgate-Palmolive health and hygiene products for guests, while quantities last.  Finalists will also receive complimentary refreshments from event supporter, ShopRite.

Attendance is free but tickets are required to attend the finals.  Get free tickets HERE

Doors open at 8:30 a.m. for finalists and 9 a.m. for guests.  Events will begin at 10 a.m. and conclude at 3 p.m.

Colgate-Palmolive has been the title sponsor of Colgate Women’s Games for nearly 50 years, supporting the program since its founding in 1974 by legendary Brooklyn track coach, the late Fred Thompson. Learn more at ColgateWomensGames.com.

NewsAmericasNow.com

Royal Caribbean Faces Backlash for Mysterious Rewards System

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Latest Caribbean And Latin America News from News America – The Black Immigrant Daily

News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Tues. May 2, 2023: Royal Caribbean, one of the largest cruise lines in the world, has stirred up controversy among its Casino Royale program participants by making a controversial move.

The said change may cause concern among gamblers and benefit competitors such as Carnival and MSC, as it affects the reward system for players on Royal Caribbean’s ships.

The Importance of Rewards in the Casino Gambling Program

Many gamblers obsess over casino gambling rewards programs, which are offered by every cruise line. These rewards have high stakes, ranging from free drinks in the casino to actual free cruises.

Royal Caribbean’s Casino Royale program provides different types of rewards for players who gamble on its ships. The program has tier status, and if a player hits “Prime” status, they receive free drinks in the casino and an annual free cruise in an interior cabin.

However, the second type of perk, the “offers,” is much more mysterious. These are emailed to customers, and  Royal Caribbean does not share how it determines who receives offers. They have nothing to say about their exact formula for evaluating a player’s value.

Offers are most likely based on the amount a player spends on a trip, but the cruise line does not disclose the specifics. These offers also tend to vary greatly, with some people receiving discounts, and others getting free suites.

Additionally, there may be a limit on the number of free cruises a player can book while still receiving offers.

Confusion Among Royal Caribbean Customers

When a player receives a free offer, it covers whatever class of room they are offered for two people.

However, some members of the Royal Caribbean Club Royale Facebook group have reported that they have received offers where only the first person is free, and the other must pay the full casino fare.

Solo travelers will also pay a “solo supplement.” This means that a “free” cruise is not entirely free under this new system. In the traditional system, a “free” offer requires that a player only pays taxes and port fees for each person.

The issue with having a somewhat mysterious rewards system is that players just don’t know if they’re receiving a good deal.

Now, these new “solo” offers are not replacing the traditional dual occupancy offers, but they seem to be a specific promotion sent only to some Casino Royale members.

This promotion may be seen as a discount offer not all that different from the “dollars off” offers that some people receive. However, Royal Caribbean continues to send some onboard casino gamblers the traditional offers that offer a truly free (aside from taxes and fees) cabin.

The move by Royal Caribbean has caused confusion and outrage among gamblers who are part of the Casino Royale program. Multiple Facebook groups on cruises discuss every quirk of the program. Many people are endlessly debating how offers are sent, and some are simply sharing the offers they’re getting.

Ultimately, this move has caused some gamblers to consider switching to competitors such as Carnival and MSC, which have more generous free cruise programs and more transparent rewards systems.

Royal Caribbean Controversies

It’s worth noting that Carnival Cruise Line has a system where comped Royal Caribbean customers can sail free on one of their sailings, and MSC also has a similar program. While the eligibility standards for a free cruise are not fully clear, it is evident that these competitors offer more transparent rewards systems.

Royal Caribbean’s Casino Royale program is not the only area of controversy for the cruise line. The company has faced criticism for its environmental impact, labor practices, and its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In April 2021, Royal Caribbean announced that it would require all crew members to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

The company has also been sued over its handling of a 2019 incident where one of its ships sailed into a storm and had to be evacuated, resulting in the death of one passenger.

Conclusion

The Royal Caribbean Casino Royale program’s recent change in the rewards system has caused outrage among gamblers who are part of the program.

The new system for rewards is more mysterious, and players just don’t feel the excitement. Instead, they’re now unsure of how fair the cruise ship is in terms of its promotions.

With this, some of their customers are now considering switching to competitors such as Carnival and MSC, which have more transparent rewards systems.

It remains to be seen if the company will change its Casino Royale program to be more transparent and regain the trust of its gamblers.

NewsAmericasNow.com

Jamaicans Shine On And Off The Field At 2023 Penn Relays

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Latest Caribbean And Latin America News from News America – The Black Immigrant Daily

News Americas, PHILADELPHIA, PA, Mon. May 1, 2023: As has become a norm, Jamaican athletes again shone brightly at the 2023 Penn Relays even as Jamaican group, Team Jamaica Bickle, was itself shining off field.

The stunner on the field this year was Hydel High School of Jamaica, which won its first-ever Penn Relays double. The Corey Bennet-coached team claimed victory in the High School Girls’ 4×100-m and 4×400-m Championship of America races. Hydel won the 4×100-m for the first time and retained the 4×400-m crown.

Holmwood Technical won the High School Girls’ 4x100m International final in 46.81 seconds.

Jamaica College and KC claimed the High School Boys’ 4×100 and 4×400 Championship of America titles.

TEAM JAMAICA BICKLE

For the first time, Team Jamaica Bickle, which was founded 29 years ago by Jamaican immigrant, Irwine Clare, Sr. OD, to provide support services for Caribbean athletes, particularly Jamaicans, who compete at the annual Penn Relays, was housed in the Palestra at the University of the Pennsylvania, nicknamed the “Cathedral of College Basketball.”

The Palestra was built in 1927, acquiring its name from the Greek term “palæstra.”

Team Jamaica Bickle’s founder, Irwine Clare, Sr., OD and athletes and volunteers in the Palestra at the University of the Pennsylvania for Penn Relays 2023 and the Labor of Love TJB 2023 presentation. (TJB image)

“It’s a significant step for Team Jamaica Bickle and as we continue to support our athletes and our ambassadors,” Clare told News Americas Monday. “It’s courtesy of over two decades of relationships and the officials at Penn understand our presence and our importance and have said they look forward to hosting us again next year.”

This year Clare said they hosted over 550 athletes and officials, providing support with accommodation, transportation and ‘bickle’ or meals daily from April 28 to April 30th.

While the majority of athletes served continue to be Jamaicans, Clare said athletes from St. Vincent and Belize athletes were also supported this year.

“This has been one of our most successful year, from volunteers to financial donations and deliverables,” Clare added. “From the University of Pennsylvania stepping up to support us, to the Consulate General of Jamaica in New York, and over 150 professional volunteers in New York’s tri-state and Pennsylvania giving of their time to Jamaican, Caribbean and even an Italian restaurant, that provided breakfast lunch and dinner for all athletes over the three days, it has been remarkable.”

“It was a great look and presentation and a lot to build on as we march into TBJ 30,” added the group’s founder.

Top high school and college athletes from across the US and the Caribbean once again converge on Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at the University of Pennsylvania for the oldest and largest track and field competition in America from April 27th-29th.

This year’s class of inductees to the Penn Relays Wall of Fame included former St Jago High sprinter, Yohan Blake.

NewsAmericasNow.com