No doubt spurred on by Colin Johnson, its mentor, motivator and celebrity, Yellow House has won the 2014 Albena Lake-Hodge Sports Day Competition with a comfortable lead over its nearest rival – Purple House.
The competition was held last week Thursday, April 10, when the participants and their cheer leaders from the five inter-school houses stormed the Ronald Webster Park in a riot of colour and festive appearance.
The large number of members of the public, on hand to witness the parade and the intense competition among the students, found themselves caught up in excitement. The opening ceremony was chaired by Teacher Avenella Gumbs. The main speakers were Mr Haydn Hughes, Parliamentary Secretary, Tourism and Sports; and Ms Jade Reymond, Marketing Manager for LIME Anguillla, the long-running overall sponsor of the annual event.
The day-long Sports Day meet saw the bulk of the competitive activities. (The road race, from Tropical Distributors at Sandy Hill to the Webster Park, was held the week before.)

The Sports Day results were as follows: Yellow House, 1231 points; Purple House, 1106; Maroon House, 1098; Pink House, 1074; and Orange House, 797 points.

In her first year on an academic and tennis scholarship at Clark Atlanta University (CAU), procured through the ATA, Avern Gumbs has won several awards. 

Her Lady Panthers Women’s Tennis Team, wrapped up its regular season last week and cracked the HBCU women’s Tennis National Poll with a No. 2 ranking!

Freshman Avern Gumbs who played at the No. 5 position ended this season receiving the 2014 SIAC Women’s Tennis First Team Selection in Singles All-Conference award. Avern ended the season with a 9-8 overall record and 7-1 in Conference.
The freshman tandem of Avern Gumbs and Tori Pradier earned the 2014 SIAC Women’s Tennis First Team Selection Doubles All-Conference for their play at No. 3 doubles position with stellar record of 11-0 in Conference matches. This also allowed Avern and Tori to be privileged to receive the 2014 SIAC Women’s Tennis Doubles All-Tournament Award.

CEO of the ATA Mr. Mitchelle Lake said, “We are proud of Avern’s achievements on the court in her rookie season at CAU. She ia a great ambassador for our program and is representing the ATA and Anguilla well.”

Go Avern! Go CAU PANTHERS!

The Anguilla Tennis Academy (ATA) has been making a difference in the lives of our children over the past 19 years. Graduates of the programme have been afforded the opportunity to attend universities in the USA or receive gainful employment at its world class facility located in Blowing Point. Recently, the Linkowski family made a generous donation valued at US$5,000.00 to help further the mission of the ATA. Included in the over 20 boxes of items were sweat pants, shoes, tennis racket strings, tennis racket grips, t-shirts, and tennis apparel.

Rafal and Aga Linkowski said, “as tennis played always a very important part in my life, one of the first visits to the Island (December 2010) was a visit to Anguilla Tennis Academy. We were thrilled to see the premises and to find out about the Tennis After School Programme. That is why this year we decided to donate much more goods than two years ago, with a total value of $ 5000.00 USD to the Anuguilla Tennis Academy which we thought would be a perfect partner for further redistribution of the goods.”

CEO and Founder of the ATA Mr. Mitchelle Lake accepted the donation on behalf of the ATA. There was a great quantity of items and Lake shared these items with other organizations on the island. The other organizations that benefitted from this generous donation include the JC Recreational Center, the Department of Probation, the Catholic Church, and the Blowing Point Community Center. Lake further stated that, “the ATA is committed to developing healthy partnerships in the community. We are humbled by this opportunity to share with others. We are grateful to Rafal and Aga for their continued support to Anguilla via the Anguilla Tennis Academy.”

Ms. Jocelyn Johnson of The Department of Probation was pleased to accept the generous donation of gym pants presented by Mr. Mitchell Lake of the Anguilla Tennis Academy. Ms. Johnson indicated that the pants will be used by residents and staff at Zenaida Haven in their exercise programme and related sporting activities.

The ATA uses tennis as a vehicle to reach and empower children and to make them responsible citizens in their community. For more information on the ATA you may contact the front office at 498-0697 or visit their website at http://www.anguillatennis.com/. Also you may visit and like the ATA’s facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/anguillatennis?ref=tn_tnmn.

Photos above submitted

Island Harbour Bay, just barely returning to normal from a hectic Festival Del Mar celebration, was the scene of much activity and a large crowd again on Sunday, April 27. The occasion was the 7th Annual Memorial Day for Jamida Webster.

Jamida, was a sixteen-year-old student at the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School and a popular cyclist in the Inter-house Sports Day Competition. But on the fateful evening of Thursday, March 13, 2003, she was brutally murdered while cycling in the Mount Fortune area, causing much pain and grief in Anguilla.
After some reflection, and in order to keep her memory alive, over the passage of time, a well-supported Memorial Committee embarked on an annual commemorative cycling event and other activities, thus memorising her to this day.
The Jamida 7th Annual Memorial Day, at the Robert Harrigan Jetty, took the form both of an opening ceremony and a memorial service. The theme of the event was: “Looking out for each other and working together for a safer Anguilla”.
The programme, chaired by Mr Timothy Webster, included tributes by Commissioner of Police Mr Rudolph Proctor (delivered by Superintendent Mr Elliot Forbes); Leader of the Opposition, Mr McNiel Rogers; Mrs Rita Carty, a teacher at the Comprehensive School; Elder Keith Smith of the Mount Fortune Seventh-day Adventist Church; Chief Minister, Mr Hubert Hughes; and Ms Coleen Johnson, a Comprehensive School student. There were also song renditions by Caledah Hull, a young upcoming singer; and Anguilla’s reggae artiste, Bankie Banx.

It was a reflective and sobering occasion for Jamida’s family, friends and many other persons, still contemplating her untimely loss. Her parents, Mr Kent Webster and Ms Iris Hughes, who have been warmly encouraged by the ceremony, the cycling event, and other activities including a boat race, have expressed their thanks and appreciation to all for their participation and encouragement.

Following are the results of the cycling competition (supplied by the Department of Sports):
1st Dannie Laud
2nd Dean Hodge
3rd Stephen Temo
4th Sherwin Osbourne
5th Vinesh Narine.

Event Information & Description Brief:

TransPharmation Weekend is the brainchild of young Anguillan entrepreneur Csaesare Wattley and 2014 is the second year that the event will be taking place. It is a free event, open to the public and an open invitational for all interested athletes and fitness enthusiasts in Anguilla and throughout the region.

It includes fitness competitions, individual and team battles and challenges and a multitude of jaw dropping faceoffs, all designed to test any individual or teams strength both mental and physical. There is also tattooing, dj’s, gaming for kids and this year there will be a male and female physique & figure competition(respectively) aptly titled “Beauty & the Beast”.

In addition to this, local health & fitness vendors and stakeholders have the opportunity to showcase their products and/or services in a mini expo setting, all in an effort to promote local business and serve as a platform for business, product & services promotion.

It is a fun and rugged fitness weekend tailored for all with the hope of inspiring fitness participation and healthy lifestyle island wide and over the long-term. Further, as a small island with a growing youth violence rate, one of the event objectives is to inspire participation for youth and to promote fitness as an avenue for personal development. Many youth are involved in this Pharmin’ fitness movement and wear the company wrist bands in solidarity.

TransPharm Ltd Company Information Brief:

TransPharm Ltd.’s Managing Director, Csaesaré Wattley – The Original Pharmer – is 31, driven and determined. He combines a passion for fitness and a healthy lifestyle with entrepreneurial flair. Fuelled by experiences good and bad he is determined to be successful and is committed to betterment of self and the elevation of his unit. He is outspoken, rugged and known for his anarchical approach and prides himself in challenging the norm and pushing boundaries. His profession as an EMT provides him with an excellent knowledge base for his fitness interests and development of his fitness movement.

Wattley made a commitment to a total physical “transpharmation” over a 2 year period, peaking mid 2014. He credits his success to a combination of his workout regimen and use of industry awarded MusclePharm products. Muscle Pharm, is a premiere sports nutrition & supplement brand based in the US, committed to “fueling athletes safely” and is endorsed by legendary body builder Arnold Schwartsenegger. So popular was his transpharmation that he jump started a fitness movement called “Pharmin’” and inadvertently created a huge fan base of “Pharmers”, all avidly using MusclePharm products, adhering to his fitness philosophy and in turn mobilizing the TransPharmNATION.

From this popularisation of the Pharmin’ movement, TransPharm Ltd was created in an effort to effectively distribute MusclePharm products both locally and regionally and continue the promotion of the Pharmin’ Phitness Movement. Plans are already underway to expand the company’s retail locations and promote the Pharmin’ movement regionally and build the TransPharmNATION in an effort to promote fitness and a healthy lifestyle for all with a special emphasis on youth development.

In 2013 Wattley decided to create an annual flagship event to promote fitness and an overall healthy lifestyle on the island. It was something that had never been done before. It was entirely self funded and organised by a team of family and close friends.

This year the event is scheduled for May 9th to 11th and is highly anticipated with much interest and participation coming from St Martin/St Maarten and the region. It is an event that is definitely set to grow and make its mark as a regional and international attraction with major endorsements from Digicel, the 4G giants and The Anguilla Tourist Board.

For further information about the event and to participate and/or if you would like to join the Annual Partnership Platform or to book a booth at the Expo contact Csaesare Wattley via email transpharmltd@gmail.com; via the website www.transpharm.me; on facebook.com/transpharm or by calling + 1 264 584 8489.

On Saturday, April 26th 2014 many volunteers from the Rey Hill community and other surrounding villages came together to pour the foundation of a full size basketball court in Rey Hill, Anguilla. It was a great showing of support and jollification as persons donated their time and labour, while sandwiches, food and drinks were provided by other persons of the community for the workers.
The basketball court upon completion will measure 92feet by 50feet and will also include a full sized volleyball court. Many individuals and businesses have donated resources towards the completion of the basketball court for the young persons in the community. The Honourable Mr. Evan Gumbs also purchased two state of the art basketball goals for the court valued over US$4,000.00. When asked about his contribution he stated, “I made a campaign promise to the people of Rey Hill and I am delivering on my promise. I am grateful to all the persons who have joined me in this worthy cause to bring this project to fruition. Our youth are the future leaders of tomorrow and we must do all that we can to help them achieve their dreams and aspirations.”
The project is being organized by the Mary Elizabeth Recreational Park Committee under the auspice of the Honourable Mr. Evan Gumbs. The committee members include Ras Elijah, President, Mr. Mitchelle Lake, Vice President, Mr. Marvel Gumbs, Secretary, Ms. Elvesa Liburd Assistant Secretary, and Ms. Tericia Liburd, Treasurer.
Phase one of the project will include a full basketball court and volleyball court with benches and a round table. The full project will include a fenced park with landscaping, tables and benches for after school sessions with the children in the community, and a wall constructed at the front showcasing the names of the persons that have made great contributions to the community over the years.
The organizing committee expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the men and women who have joined the cause to advance the project. Phase one of the project will be completed within the next three weeks.

- Press Release
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)

The Ronald Webster Park in Anguilla was a scene of much colour and fun-filled activities for the Labour Day holiday on Thursday, May 1.

The participating teams represented CuisinArt Golf Resort & Spa; Viceroy Anguilla; Cap Juluca; Law Offices; Customs; Police; Health Authority; Teachers; National Bank of Anguilla and Various Government Departments.
The activities were preceded by cheer-leading performances by squads representing the three hotels. It was an exciting time for all participants and promoted a spirit of camaraderie among them.

Children and Teachers at the Opening Ceremony

A two-week Kiddies Cricket Tournament for children in the primary and preschools in Anguilla, sponsored by Scotiabank (Anguilla) Limited, commenced at the Ronald Webster Park on Tuesday afternoon this week.
Cricket Development Officer, Cardigan Connor, welcomed the teachers, children and supporters, but especially the boys and girls, at the mass gathering. “It is always impressive to see our young people playing a sport that is very much part of a culture in the Caribbean,” Mr Connor said. He was pleased to see Jamar Hamilton in the gathering, noting that some years ago he started playing kiddies cricket and eventually went on to play for the West Indies. “There is therefore a pathway from where you are starting today, all the way up to the West Indies senior team,” Connor told the young aspiring cricketers.”
President of the Anguilla Cricket Association, Ralph Hodge, said in part: “I am looking at the cradle of Anguilla cricket going forward,” referring to the presence of the teeming youngsters. “We will never have a cricketing future if you do not develop.” He praised Mr Connor for giving up coaching young people in Australia to return to Anguilla, his homeland, to develop an interest in the sport among the island’s youth. “I am asking Mr Connor for us to go back to that journey[to develop cricket]. We have lost it in recent times and I want to ensure that our cricket goes the next step – and it is only going to do so if you improve,” Mr Hodge told the attentive children. He pledged to use all the energies of the Anguilla Cricket Association to work with Mr Connor, and the head coaches, to achieve success in developing the playing ability and interest of the children.
Scotiabank was represented at the event by Mr Valdez Johnson who urged the students to demonstrate an active interest in cricket. He was certain that kiddies cricket, which the bank has been sponsoring for a number of years, has had a positive impact on the development of the sport across the Caribbean region including Anguilla. “The fundamentals of the sport are learnt from a young age,” he informed the children. “It is time for you to listen to your head coaches, the umpires and the referees – and try to absorb as much as you can in the game of cricket. It is a lovely sport, so I want you to go out there – have fun and make friends.”

Mr Rollins Richardson, Acting Director of Sports, congratulated the children for their involvement in the kiddies cricket. “As you should be aware, in every sport there are the youth level, junior level and the senior level, and we want to encourage all of you to continue with this sport for a very long time,” he urged them. “When you keep on trying at the sport, you can reach the level of success that we have seen other Anguillians reached today on the regional and international scenes.”
The kiddies cricket tournament will continue until May 13.

Dr. Webster & Coaches at basketball camp

Two days of professional basketball drills and skills training exercises, on Saturday and Sunday, May 3 and 4, have been described as having been of much benefit to young players at Island Harbour, according to members of the supporting organisers.

The training events, sponsored by AUM election candidate, Dr Ellis Lorenzo Webster, and his supporting team, were delivered by three US College Coaches and motivating speakers. They were Walter Bond, Stephen Bardo and Arriel McDonald. The free drills and ball skills training were offered to male and female juniors and seniors as well as local coaches and referees. The training climaxed with a series of exhibition games.
Mr Bond and Mr Bardo, who were available to speak to the media, expressed delight that they were able to come to Anguilla, at Dr Webster’s request, to deliver the training. They spoke about the possibility of assisting the youngsters further. They also pointed to opportunities for a number of them to have the privilege to attend college through their involvement in basketball later on, once they applied themselves.

Dr Webster was grateful to the coaches for coming to Anguilla and contributing so much of their time and effort to conduct the training camp sessions. He hoped that the youngsters had benefitted much from the training and would continue their interest and participation in the sport.

Scores of young and adult sporting enthusiasts, as well as a number of vendors, converged on the Stoney Ground Road on Sunday, May 4. The occasion was the first annual Watkins Hodge Community Memorial Race which, by all appearances, is to be among the well-supported calendar events in Anguilla.

The event, outside the adjoining premises of Caracasbaai Supermarket and the Collins O Hodge Complex, was organised by the Anguilla Community Alliance, a recently-formed organisation involving committee members from the Stoney Ground, Little Dix and The Quarter areas. The Alliance has as its leaders Mr Dallen Connor, President, and Mr Sherman Williams, Vice President, both of whom, along with their associates, are passionate about honouring various persons in and outside the areas for their outstanding contributions to the community and the island in general.

The relay races, which encompassed the Stoney Ground Road, the Queen Elizabeth Avenue, the Albert Lake Drive and back, involved a number of participants in various age categories. The competing runners were in the age groups of 8-12, targeting Primary School students; 13-18, involving students of the Comprehensive School; 19-24 and 25 years and over, representing a number of clubs.

Speaking on behalf of his team, during the events, Sherman Williams expressed delight with the response by sponsors, participants and the general public. “The function got off to a magnificent start,” he stated. “We are indeed happy for the support of the community – not only in Stoney Ground, Little Dix and The Quarter – but all other participating communities and those persons cheering the teams. Dallen and I are indeed honoured and humbled that we have the support of family, friends and other peer groups.

“The sponsorships were very good, and we commend our sponsors. It was tremendous and we thank all the businesses and individuals who came on board and assisted in making the memorial race a success. It was an event not just for the activities, but to honour past members of the community, including Mr Watkins Hodge, the banner name for the Anguilla Community Alliance’s annual event.”

A list of over one hundred persons who died over the years in the Stoney Ground, Little Dix and The Quarter areas was read by Mr Alkins Rogers whose parents were also included in that list along with Watkins Hodge and others. Mr Rogers, a former Director of Sports, now Chairman of the Social Security Board, complimented the organisers of the event for their thoughtful and patriotic effort. He was pleased that the event was named in honour of the late Watkins Hodge whom he described as “a stalwart of the community”.

Mr Evans McNiel Rogers also spoke about Mr Hodge’s contribution to the community, and Anguilla on a whole, in the operation of his business and his encouragement and example to young people. “I was very impressed by his contribution and kindness, and we will ensure that this annual event grows from strength to strength,” the Elected Representative commented. He was supported by Ms Veda Harrigan, a retired educator of Little Dix. “I think it is well-fitting to have such a race to commemorate the life and work of the late Watko, and his contribution not only to this community, but the whole of the island,” she said.
Mr Sutcliffe Hodge, an election candidate in the district, said in part: “I think it is a great idea. This immediate community has always been known to be very sports-oriented, and to recognise one of our sports supporters for many years, Mr Watkins Hodge, is a great thing. I hope that we will continue to have this event on an annual basis with a view to keeping our community, and our young people, in particular, focused. We are pleased that, to date, not much of the violence that we hear happening across the island can be attributed to this community. That is commendable and speaks well of how the youngsters here were groomed over the many years.”
The event, which commenced just before noon, continued until close to sunset and climaxed with the distribution of trophies by Mrs Jasmine Hodge-Thomas, daughter of the late Watkins Hodge who delivered a poem in his memory. She is the Principal of the Orealia Kelly Primary School and was pleased that a number of the students there had participated in the memorial race.

The results of the race were as follows – 8-12 category: 1st Morris Vanterpool School; 2nd Valley Primary School; 3rd: Orealia Kelly Primary School. 12-18 years category –1st: Diamonds Athletic Club; 2nd: Lions Club; and 3rd: Rainbow Rockets. 19-24 category –1st: Diamond Athletic Club; (Others did not finish). 25-plus category –1st: Lions Club; 2nd: Advance Community Sports Club; and 3rd: Diamonds Athletic Club.

The relay races were described as having been very exciting and competitive and contributed to a most successful 2014 Watkins Hodge Memorial Race.

The growing interest and involvement of youngsters in competitive football in Anguilla is being further emphasised with the Female Football League now in progress until July.

The 2014 Tournament commenced on Sunday, May 4, on the playing field at the Anguilla Football Association’s Stadium. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mr Raymond Guishard, President of the Association, appealed to the players to demonstrate strong competition characterised by fair play and respect for the decisions of the officials administering the matches.

He said that an important objective of the matches was to prepare a number of national players to represent Anguilla at a tournament in the Dominican Republic in June and an under-15 competition in the Cayman Islands in August.

Mr Alkins Rogers, Chairman of the Social Security Board, said he was pleased that the statutory body, flooded by many requests for assistance, had found it possible, along the Caribbean Commercial Bank, to be a co-sponsor of the Female Football Tournament. He joined in urging the young footballers to “work hard, to be fair and clean” and to put away all animosities in their quest to win.

The tournament was kicked off by Mr Haydn Hughes, Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism and Sports. Prior to that he inspected the various teams accompanied by their captains.

The competing five teams are Lil Soldiers, De Youngsters, Gazelles, Shining Stars and Super Stars. The games will be played on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Budget marine Accepts Spinnaker First place prize

Tradition which won
the “Spirit of Tradition” class

Despite some inclement weather and mechanical failures the competitors in the Anguilla Regatta managed to have a wonderful long weekend of sailing. The first face began on Friday afternoon from Simpson Bay where 13 boats started the race with good wind from 10 to 15 knots and overcast skies. There were four boats entered in the spinnaker class, five in the non-spinnaker, two multi-hulls and two Anguilla boats, Tradition and Jasie in their own Spirit of Tradition class rounded out fleet. At the end of the race, an hour and forty five minutes later in Road Bay, the Du Toit 51 multihull “Quality Time” owned by Petro Jonker crossed the line first to take the multi-hull class. This would be the pattern for the multi-hulls for the rest of regatta with Quality Time taking all bullets from Billboard Media Guimamalou owned by Jean Michel Ricour with an amazingly consistent four minutes separating the two boats in almost every race. In the spinnaker class the very consistent Melges 24 Budget Marine won the race on corrected time despite being beaten over the line by the speedy Panic Attack who would fall to third behind Amcon 1. In what would be a pattern for the regatta Team Island Water World skippered byFrits Bus was unable to start the race due to a halyard problem and would never make it over to Anguilla. In the first Saturday race for the spinnaker class Panic Attach lost a rudder and was left unable to compete but Budget Marine and Amcon 1 fought it out anyway and Budget Marine came out the victor by 1 minute 19 seconds in a short windward leeward duel. Then it was Amcon’s turn to break a rudder and she would not compete again for the rest of the regatta. And on Sunday it was Budget Marine who sustained a broken stanchion and also pulled out. So Panic Attack who had moved heaven and earth to make its repairs was left to go around the course on its own on Sunday in early rain and then glorious sunshine. In the end Budget Marine’s two wins proved enough and she took the class victory. Perhaps the most competitive class was the non-spinnakers where Sir Bobby Velasquez’s Beneteau 45 “L’Esperance” and “Wild Devil” owned by Ben Jelic battled all weekend but the recent modifications to the Custom Kiwi 35 seemed to have done the trick and the Devil took the victory in all of her races although never by more than 3 minutes on corrected time. The St. Maarten Sailing School Beneteau” Vanille” skippered by Garth Steyn was always in the mix and nabbed a second in the first race on Saturday losing by only 3 seconds to Wild Devil. Spirit, Alan Edwards’a Swan 65 and “Kick em Jenny” skippered by Ryan Hope-Ross rounded out the class. Perhaps somewhat fittingly the Spirit of Tradition class was won by the beautifully restored Caricou sloop Tradition owned and skippered by Laurie Gumbs although Cape Dory Day Sailor “Jasie” owned by Gordon Andrews proved she could move around the courses with the best of them. In the end there was good wind and little rain and the Regatta proved to be a thoroughly entertaining event both on the water and off of it and the competitors all guaranteed that they would be back next year and would bring their friends. The organizers wanted to that the Anguilla Tourist Board for its support and especially Paul and Deborah Miller of www.regatta-guru.com who provided most of the technical and logistical support necessary to make the event possible.

- Press Release

(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)

Cricket
The local tournament continued at the James Ronald Webster Park. Two matches were played over the weekend. On Saturday Masters defeated the ALHCS team. Masters batted first and made 120 for 7 wickets from 19.4 overs. Lawrence (Lalu) Carty top scored with 29 runs and Terry Adams made 26. Both Jaidel Richardson and Useph Hodge picked up 1 wicket each for ALCHS. In reply, the school made 121 for 3 from 17.3 overs. Jaidel Richardson and Demari Prince both made 31runs and Demitri Adams also contributed 29 runs.
On Sunday, the Masters played the GT Blazers. GT Blazers batted first and made 108 for 7 wickets from their 20 overs. Demari Prince top scored with 53 runs. In reply, the masters made 110 for 5 wickets. Lawrence (Lalu) Carty made 32 runs supported by Shridath Rey 18 not out.

Kiddy’s Cricket
The closing ceremony for the Primary schools Kiddy’s Cricket tournament was held at the James Ronald Webster Park on Friday the 23rd May. An exhibition match was held between the Valley school who won the tournament and a combine team from the rest primary schools. Valley school won.

The tournament was sponsored by Scotia Bank Anguilla at which representatives were present to awarded kids with gifts for participating in the tournament. Trophies were awarded to the top 3 schools and also individual awards given. The results were as follows:
1st Valley Primary School
2nd Adrian T Hazell Primary School/ Vivien Vanterpool Primary School
Most Runs – Damian Hodge (Valley Primary School)
Best Fielder – Sherron Richardson (Valley Primary School)
Most outstanding Bowler – Christopher (Vivien Vanterpool Primary School)
Most Discipline School – Adrian T Hazell Primary School.
Most Improve School – Central Christian School

Basketball
The local Basketball tournament at the Ashley Brooks Basketball court continued this weekend. Below are the results of those games.
DATE Team Team Top Scorers
Sunday, May 25th Knights – 59 Shottaz – 69 Javille Brooks 26 points, 7 rebs
Sunday, May 25th Spartans – 29 Raiders – 64 Crefton Gumbs 18 points, 11 rebs
Saturday, May 24th Hoyas – 70 Raiders – 54
Saturday, May 24th Knights – 67 Outlaws- 55
Rising NBA Star Mr. Anthony Davis visits Anguilla
Rising NBA Star Mr. Anthony Davis visited the Alwyn Allison Primary School and Adrian T. Hazell Primary School during his stay in Anguilla. He was accompanied by Mr. Richard Alexander General Manager and Jose Flores Director of Finance from Viceroy Anguilla along with Javille Brooks and Josheem Morton,members of the Anguilla Youth Sports Foundation (founded by Thomas Kelly) and Delano Mussington (Programme Officer, Sports Department) . The 6′-10″ giant, who currently plays for the New Orleans Pelicans, was selected first overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft.
Mr. Davis took time to meet with the kids and told them about his times growing up on the South Side of Chicago Streets where crime and distractions surrounded him. He told the kids he always knew he wanted to be a professional basketball player, so he had to maintain his grades and work hard on his game to achieve his goals in life. Mr. Davis reminded the kids that Education is the key, so they must apply themselves academically in order to achieve their goals in life.

Mr. Davis attended the University of Kentucky for one year before following his dream to become a professional basketball player, he plans on taking on-line courses to obtain a business degree. One day he hopes to be a successful businessman after his career in the NBA. Before leaving Mr. Davis answered questions and signed autographs for kids. He was even asked to do a 360 Dunk by one of the kids, which he easily did. The kids were excited to meet Mr. Davis and thanked him for taking the time to meet with them.

Athletics
A contingent of 22 athletes accompanied by parents and coaches under the umbrella of the Central Christian School travelled to St. Martin, on Friday 23rd May to participate in the annual athletic meet for primary schools. They were accompanied by a number of parents& coaches. Other participating schools were St. Barths, Haville Williams, Sandy Ground, and French Quarter St Maarten.

The meet was of a circuit nature, with events comprising of long jump, 50 meter runs, ball throws and 6x50metre relays. Amongst the athletes was Leeward Island youth selectees Daemikwa Wallace of Central Christian, Akoya Phillip of Vivian Vanterpool and Armoni Gumbs of Allwyn Allison. The three aforementioned athletes along with Leondre Hobson, Devon Perkins, Verejee Hodge, Tajah Carter, Shane Fleming, Destiny Richardson and Deluca Mussington were among the most outstanding performers of the meet.
Anguilla (Central Christian School) amassed 353 points, placing second (2nd) overall. The breakdowns of scores for Anguilla are as follows:
Ball Throw – 70 pts Long Jump – 110 pts
50 metres – 93 pts 6×50 relays – 80 pts

The overall scores are as follows:
Winner: French Quarter – 387 pts
2nd Place: Anguilla – 353 pts
3rd Place: Sandy Ground – 350 pts
4th Place : Haville Williams – 293 pts
5th Place: St. Barths – 279 pts

Anguilla also took bragging rights in a 50 metre race-off of the top athletes. Daemikwa & Akoya dominated for the girls and Armoni & Shane for the boys.
It was good exposure for the athletesto engage in friendly exchanges, and good social interaction. The event climaxed with a tour of the island.

Cycling
The Anguilla Cycling Association held its 2nd Annual Anguilla Day Race on Sunday, May 25, 2014. The race started at approximately 12:45 p.m. at the Highway Tyre Center, George Hill, where was also the finishing point. Some 25 Cyclists participated in Elite, Master and Junior Categories. Races for children were also added this year and brought much excitement to the children, parents and cycling fans. The results were as follows:

Children’s Races

9-11 yr old boys

1st place Eveon Claxton
2nd place Nicholas Carbon
3rd place Cailon Flemming
4th Kai Ruan
5th Samoi Niles

6-8 yr old boys

1st place Kanye Paris
2nd place Demitri Niles
3rd place Sharvine Narine
4th place Veon Claxton

4 yr old boys
1st place Leon Claxton

9-11 girls
1st Elnisha Gumbs

Masters Category
1st place Keverne Authur
2nd place Gossie Arvand
3rd place Pappie Carty

 
Juniors Category
1st place Matteo Patris (VCG, SXM)
2nd place Jamari Bryan (Double Trouble, AXA)
3rd place Hasani Hennis (Double Trouble, AXA)

Elite Category
1st place Sherwin Osbourne
2nd place Danny Laud
3rd place Benjamin (Donger) Phillip
4th Justin Hodge
5th Elroy Laud
6th Kris Pradel
7th Vinesh Narine
The Anguilla Amateur Cycling Association would like to thank, the local and St. Maarten/Martin Cyclists, The Government of Anguilla, The Staff of the Sports Office, DJ Kue, The Royal Anguilla Police Force, The Management of Highway Tire Services & Sales, Parents of Children who participated, Alexis Ryan, Lynn Williams, Curtis Ruan and the many cycling fans. Thanks for your support.
The next race, “The Benjamin “Donger” Phillip Cycling Challenge” will be on June 8, 2014 at East End.

Netball
The Association will be holding it Anguilla Day Island-Side Netball Tournament, June 6 -8th 2014. Participating teams will be Anguilla, Jamaica, Dominica and St Kitts. Matches will be played at the James Ronald Webster Park beginning at 6pm.

Dominoes:
The Anguilla Day Domino Tournament was held over the weekends May 16-17 and 23-24.
This year the tournament format was change from previous years. Unlike previous years when all 12 registered teams with the Domino Association participated, we decided this year to have a District Tournament. We had all 7 Electoral Districts, an All-Star and a Female Team participating giving a total of 9 teams. It was a keenly contested competition over the two weekends and at end of the tournament the results were as follows:
District 2 – 318 points
District 7 – 308 points
District 6 – 297 points
Prizes awarded were trophies and a cash prize of US$300.00 for first place.
The Association will like to thank all players and sponsors including the Government of Anguilla.

Caribbean Sports and Development Agency (CSDA) Workshop – Trinidad 22-23 May
Ms Katrina Richardson, Acting Deputy Director of Sports was among 60 attendees at the CSDA two day workshop held in Trinidad 22-23 May held under theme “Redefining Normal”. The conference was intended to bring together policy makers, practitioners and academics from the fields of sport, education, health, disability and social development to share current international trends, ideas, challenges and experiences from both research and practice in an effort to challenge the status quo that often defines traditional practice in sport and sport for development. Other issues discussed were ways to strengthen sports and development programming through capacity building workshops that target core thematic areas of health, safeguarding and child protection in sport and youth. Findings were also presented on regional sport and development research projects in the Caribbean.

-Press Release
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)

L-R: Mr. Alkins Rogers, Mr. Raymond Guishard, Ms. Angeline Kanhai, Mr. Haydn Hughes,
Mr. Evans McNiel Rogers and Mr. Damien Hughes

L-R: Hon. Evan Gumbs, Hon. Evans McNiel Rogers, Ms. Angeline Kanhai, Mr. Raymond Guishard and Mr. Damien Hughes

Spectators at Groundbreaking Ceremony

Presentation to Mr. Raymond Guishard

Waiting to entertain invited guests

The Anguilla Football Association, in collaboration with FIFA, its major financier, and the Anguilla Government, has broken ground for Part A of the second phase of the development of recreational and sporting facilities on the island.
Construction work commenced on Monday morning, May 26. The project will be built in two parts. Part A will comprise twelve dormitory rooms, a sports shop and a dining area at a cost of US$500, 000 .The contractor is Mr Louis Liburd of PACE Construction. Part B will comprise twenty-two dormitory rooms, fencing, a training field and cisterns. The estimated cost is US1,000,000 (one million dollars) for which funding from FIFA is to be sought later.

The addresses at the groundbreaking ceremony were delivered at the Football Stadium on Sunday evening, May 24, at the James Ronald Webster Park Annex. The ground was broken at the northern end of the property where the new undertaking is called “AFA Goal Project ll.”

The first phase of the project, now in use, comprises the Anguilla Football Stadium with a grandstand seating capacity of 1,100; a conference room; offices; a gym; changing rooms and showers; a grass turf field; a security fence and lighting facilities.

Parliamentary Secretary, Tourism and Sports, Haydn Hughes, speaking on behalf of Chief Minister, Hubert Hughes, said he was not only proud of the work of the Anguilla Football Association, but also of the commitment of the players, particularly the female teams.

“I have no doubt that this investment has been great for the social and sporting development of our youth,” he stated. “I thank all, in particular, FIFA, for financing the same and I want them to know that they have a partner in Government. I also want the Anguilla Football Association to know that they have the full and unwavering support of the Government of Anguilla.”

Hughes expressed appreciation that the new dormitory would provide accommodation for visiting football teams as well as local players. “The Government of Anguilla and the Anguilla Football Association are about to reaffirm their partnership through a new Memorandum of Understanding that will take into consideration the development of facilities on both ends of the island,” he added.

FIFA’s Development Officer in the Caribbean, Ms Angeline Kanhai, said in part: “The dormitory project will undoubtedly be a meaningful addition to the AFA facilities. While Anguilla may not yet have the resources or population to challenge some of our larger neighbours, you are ahead of the pack when it comes to facilities. You are already one of the few regional Football Associations to have its own stadium. You will be one in less than a handful to have your dormitories of the size projected. Along with that, you will have the possibility of hosting numerous teams.”

Ms Kanhai added that FIFA was happy to support the project. She thanked Mr Raymond Guishard, President of the Anguilla Football Association, in particular, for his dedicated work and presented him with a token of appreciation on behalf of FIFA.

Mr Alkins Rogers, General Secretary of the Anguilla Football Association, who chaired the ceremony, joined in commending Mr Guishard for his outstanding hard work and commitment saying, that, “everything you see around here has Mr Guishard’s signature on it.” He described him as a visionary, referring to his future ideas and plans for the development of football in Anguilla.

Mr Guishard was happy that the ground was being broken for the second phase of the project. “This action will enable us to continue the dream,” he said, recalling the work of the Association over the years and in outlining the current and future plans. He hoped that he and his executive team would be able to continue to serve the best interests of the young people of Anguilla in terms of the development of football facilities.

Former Minister of Social Services, Mr Evans McNiel Rogers, who was involved in the early work of the Football Association, and its quest for playing facilities, was grateful to see the progress which had been made over the years towards that end. He joined in congratulating Mr Guishard and past and present executive members for their contributions, and was delighted that phase two of the football project was now commencing.

Mr Damien Hughes, General Secretary of the Caribbean Football Union, said in part: “From the perspective of the union, which represents thirty-one countries – the largest bloc of countries within the configuration of North, Central America and the Caribbean Football Association – we are happy to see the Anguilla Football Association take this dynamic move. It is a step that will allow teams not just to participate in tournaments, but to host them at the regional level.”

Mr Hughes, who just graduated as a Methodist Minister, added: “The construction of the dormitories not only represents an investment in Anguilla, but in sports tourism and effective player development.”

Those who participated in the breaking of ground were the Minister of Infrastructure, Mr Evan Gumbs; the Leader of the Opposition and Elected Member for Valley North, Mr Evan McNiel Rogers; Ms Kanhai, the FIFA representative; Mr Guishard and Mr Damien Hughes.

The Grade 1 Class playing a game on the sport court.

Central Christian School Grade 1 students with Coach Louis (seated) and Tr. Adams (standing)

On Wednesday 21st May 2014 the JC Recreational Centre was host to another primary school. This time the happy children came from Central Christian School, located in Rey Hill, along with Teacher Nakieta Adams and some of the parents. Amidst much laughter and high spirits the twelve children learnt the basics of physical exercise from Coach Louis Price – Stretch, Strength and Stamina. The Grade One class enjoyed their time with Coach Louis immensely – exercising in a circle and running around the track of the sport court.
Once again, the JC Recreational Centre was glad for an opportunity to fulfill its Mission Statement: “To direct and harness children’s energies into positive channels, which include organised sports, fitness classes and tutoring sessions to facilitate and enhance their social development”.

The JC Recreational Centre would like to thank the Anguillian Newspaper for its wonderful coverage of ongoing activities at the centre. For more information about the JC Recreational Centre, or to find out how you can collaborate with or contribute to its goals, contact us at jcrecreationalcentre@gmail.com or visit our website at www.jcrecreationalcentre.org.

- Press Release
Louis Price – Founder, JCRC

(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)

St. Barths Competitors

In two days of racing last weekend that saw over 49 young sailors competing in the 5th Annual St. Barth’s Mini Regatta the eight athletes from the Anguilla Youth Sailing Club (AYSC) proved that they were able to compete and compete well. According to new Sailing Director, Anette Hibbert, “the kids were amazing”. In the hotly contested two man “RS Feva” class the Anguillian teams of Rene Thomas/Darren Carty and Huekeemy Hughes/Tobie Bloom placed second and third respectively with the final result only being decided in the last race. This was a very good result considering that the boys had never sailed a Feva before and they were competing against five other very experienced teams. The St. Maarten team of Alec Scarabelli /Johanna Looser eventually took first place in the class but not before having to stave off a ferocious challenge from the Anguilla teams.

The Laser class was again dominated by the very talented Rhone Findlay of St. Maarten but Anguilla’s Thomas Maccow also performed extremely well to place third in the eight boat class beating out a number of vastly more experienced sailors. Thomas is the assistant instructor at AYSC and has been training hard to emulate his St. Maarten counterpart who has now earned himself a spot in the ISAF Youth Worlds in Portugal in two months’ time. Ms. Hibbert stated that “with some better equipment, more time and some funding Thomas could soon be knocking on that door”. The home teams Francois De Corlieu placed second in the class.

Anguilla also had three competitors in the Optimist class of 20 boats. Huekhawmi Hughes. Jo’ardie Richardson and Isabelle Probanz all performed well with Huekhawmi placing 3rd in the younger silver fleet. Coach Hibbert was particularly pleased with Isabelle’s performance as she was the only girl from the Anguilla team and a first time regatta competitor and yet managed to hold her own with the rest of fleet and finished every race. Young Jo’ardie also did well and proved that he has the ability to compete at all levels.
Mr. Donald Curtis, President of the Anguilla Sailing Association, noted that “it is crucial that all of these young sailors be exposed to these competition and these experiences on a regular basis in order for them to improve as both sailors and members of the larger Anguillian society. We are extremely proud of our team and our new instructor and look forward to many good things to come”. Mr Curtis also remarked that “In addition to Rhone Findlay competing in Portugal, St. Maarten has two sailors competing at the Optimist World Championships in Argentina this year. Given Anguilla’s rich sailing history, traditions and experience there is no reason why we should not be doing as well as St. Maarten”. This is the fourth international regatta this year that at least some members of the team have been able to compete in and the club is asking for support in any form to allow the club to take up this challenge.

The AYSC is a non-profit organization that is focused on the development of the youth of Anguilla by providing them with a place and a sport that encourages them to learn, compete and grow. It runs afternoon classes throughout the school year and is accepting enrollment for the Summer Camp scheduled to start in June. Please call 264-584-7245 for more information.

The AYSC would like to thank Calypso Charters, Joselyn Theophile-Richardson, Pam Webster and Ira Bloom for their financial and logistical support for the team this weekend.

- Press Release

(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)

May 30th, 2014: The Valley, Anguilla: Digicel committed US$2500.00 in sponsorship to the Valley Community troupe for their 8th annual Anguilla Day Boat Ride event, “Dawg Pound Boat Ride”.

While some celebrated Anguilla day on land, others joined in big groups on badges to go around the island following the boat race while in merriment. Persons on the “Dawg Pound Boat Ride” enjoyed food, drinks and entertainment by Infusion Band, De Movements Band and Digicel ’s own Exodus HD.

Digicel’s Kerchelle Jn Charles stated “Digicel is truly happy to be a part of the thrill and excitement in celebrating Anguilla day with all Anguillans.”

Some of the Digicel team members also supported by joining passengers on the “Dawg Pound Boat Ride” and were proud to see that the anticipated event reigned successful.

- Press Release

(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)

The 2014 Anguilla Day round-the-island boat race was a triumph for the A-class boat, Sonic, steered by Captain Eddy. The fast-sailing vessel led the race from start to finish. It covered the distance in five and a half hours – snatching first place well ahead of its competitors.

In second place was Real Deal, followed in third, fourth, fifth and sixth positions by Viking, NWO, Light & Peace and De Tree respectively.

The other participating boats were Superstar, Wizard, Eagle, Miss Anguilla, Satellite, Stinger and De Chan.

Early during the race, there were periods of squally weather which resulted in some disappointment. Miss Anguilla sank and Satellite lost its mast. In another incident, a crew member of Stinger had to be given medical assistance.

As customary, two barges, one bearing the banner of LIME and the other, bearing the banner of DIGICEL, followed the boat race loaded with large numbers of boat-racing fans and other persons enjoying the Anguilla Day holiday.

The Sentence Planning Team at Her Majesty’s Prison was pleased to host its second annual basketball tournament from June 2 – 5, 2014 at the prison’s basketball court. This event is part of ongoing efforts by HMP towards the rehabilitation of inmates by providing a range of opportunities for constructive recreation in the form of sports and social activities, fostering team spirit and promoting cooperation with others – all skills which they can transfer and use in the community upon release. The tournament was preceded by an official opening ceremony with brief remarks made by Superintendent of Prison Mr. Conrad Gumbs, Acting Sports Director Mr. Rollins Richardson, Correctional Services Counsellor Rev. Lindsay Richardson and Mr. Merrick Richardson from the North Hill Raiders basketball team.
In recognizing the importance of securing external support and developing partnerships with other community stakeholders, history was created when for the first time an outside team – The North Hill Raiders – competed against the prison team ‘The Wheelers.’ The tournament consisted of three games which were keenly contested; and a three point shootout competition. The Raiders emerged the winners of the three match tournament, though it was Christopher Baptista of the Wheelers who took home the MVP trophy. In the three point shootout competition, Delano Mussington and Alonzo Isaac from the Raiders; and Alexis Connor and Javelle Carty from the Wheelers competed for the prized trophy. Javelle Carty emerged as the winner, retaining the coveted title for a second year in a row.
Other stakeholders deserving of much commendation include the Department of Sports who played a pivotal role in supplying the inmates with uniforms and providing a professional referee (Carl Thomas) for the games, as well as the Anguilla Red Cross who provided first aid and other assistance at every game. Additionally, this tournament would never have come to fruition had it not been for the sponsors who made generous contributions in cash and kind, namely LIME Anguilla Ltd, Caribbean Commercial Bank, Unique Trading, Best Buy Supermarket, Tackle Box, Ashley and Sons, Larry’s Food, Natural Mystic Restaurant and Ms. Elvesa Liburd.
Rev. Richardson, in his expressions of thanks during the closing ceremony, paid special tribute to the sponsors, the guest visitors, Management personnel of HM Prison; prison officers and members of the Sentence Planning Team – in particular Officer Jennifer Cordice for ably coordinating the tournament and overseeing the event for the second year running. Special commendation was extended to both teams for a highly competitive tournament, their team spirit, sportsmanship, mutual respect and discipline; and for an excellent display of talent and skills.

- Press Release

(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)

Mrs Cora Richardson Hodge

Several hundred fun-loving people from across Anguilla took the opportunity of Monday’s holiday, marking the Official Birthday of Queen Elizabeth the Second, to enjoy two annual events planned for that day.

One was the East End Village “thing”, an assortment of culinary delights, games, cycling, music and exhibitions, now in its second year. The other event was the Momsin Uncle Willie Boat Race, a long-established competitive sailing sport at Crocus Bay.

The East End event, in the old schoolyard area, which came sharp on the heels of the Welches Fest, was described by Mrs Cora Richardson Hodge of the Hope Centre. “It is a combination of the Morris Vanterpool Primary School, the Hope Group, which is part of the Hope Centre, as well as the Deion Richardson Classic Bicycle Race,” she explained. “The turnout is pretty good and what we actually have is a family fun day where the children can come and enjoy themselves. We have bouncing castles; children’s games; and domino competitions for adults. We also have different bands and singers and a variety of delicious food and other delicacies. It is a pretty exciting time and I think everybody is looking forward to a grand time as the day progresses.”
She continued: “The reason we call it “a village thing” is that the East End Community is actually a village and we want to foster togetherness because we have noticed that over time families have become distant. We are all caught up in our work and everyday activities. No one is taking the time to sit down, get to know each other, and spend time not only with people just within their own district, but from other districts as well. We want to foster a community spirit and to bring our people back together again to enjoy, relax and simply to hang out.”

Mrs Richardson Hodge took the opportunity to praise the Welches Fest which was held on Whit Monday, June 9. “It was a great turnout. We support the Welches Fest and the Welches Fest supports us as well, so I think it is a great combination,” she added.

Meanwhile, about six miles away, at Crocus Bay, nine boats competed in the Momsin Uncle Willie Boat Race. The participating boats were Eagle, Miss Anguilla, Satellite, Real Deal, Sonic, Light and Peace, Viking, Stinger and De Tree. The race went around Prickly Pear and back – a distance of about ten miles.

“This race was started in 1998, while Momsin and Uncle Willie were alive,” Harris Richardson, one of Anguilla’s boat-racing enthusiasts said. “We thought we should honour and glorify them while they were alive. A group of us at Crocus Bay got together and decided that we should put together a boat race in memory of Uncle Willie who was a pioneer of boat-racing at Crocus Bay.
“Every morning he would leave his house (now the office of NAGICO Insurance) – just across from the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School – and walk to Crocus Bay. I must say that the Momsin Uncle Willie Boat Race Committee was instrumental in putting on the first round-the-island boat race. We, in The Valley, are proud of that because a number of people said it could not be done, but it is now a landmark in boat-racing in Anguilla.”

Mr. Richardson was grateful to Caribbean Commercial Bank for contributing a prize to the Momsin Uncle Willie Boat Race from its inception. Other contributors are Mr John Benjamin, Ashley & Sons, the Original Barbers of South Valley, Koal Keel Restaurant, Ani Villas, CeBlue Villas and Beach Resort, NAGICO Insurance, DaVida’s Restaurant and Hall’s Bakery.

“I can see this race going from strength to strength and we are expanding the committee to ensure that it continues,” he stated.

When the race ended, the five boats in the winning positions were: De Tree in first place, followed by Sonic, Viking, Eagle and Miss Anguilla respectively.