Local News
Djimon Gumbs: Shattering Records and Reaching New Heights
Djimon Gumbs is a name that resonates in the world of track and field. As a student at Northwestern State University (NSU), this British Virgin Islands native has not only left an indelible mark but has also rewritten records and exceeded expectations, excelling in the shot put and discus events.
Gumbs’ journey is one marked by an unquenchable thirst for excellence. His groundbreaking achievements have positioned him as the first male thrower from NSU to qualify for the NCAA Championships in multiple events, a distinction shared only with Trecey Rew, who achieved this feat in 2010, participating in the shot put and discus.
His accomplishments transcend collegiate competition. At the U23 Caribbean Games in 2022, Gumbs claimed the silver medal in the shot put with a remarkable throw of 17.99m (59’02”).
In 2022, Gumbs secured his spot at the NCAA Division I Men’s and Women’s Outdoor Track and Field Championships, held in Eugene, Oregon, from June 8 to 11. His remarkable journey to this prestigious event included a 10th-place finish with a throw of 55.93m (183’50”) during the NCAA East Preliminary games at Indiana University Bloomington on May 27, 2022.
Earlier in the same competition, on May 25, 2022, Gumbs had already punched his ticket to the NCAA Div I Championships in the shot put. His final attempt witnessed a personal best, as he hurled the shot to a distance of 19.22m (63’0.75”), earning him an 8th-place finish at the East Preliminaries.
At the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, Gumbs concluded his campaign with a non-advancing best throw of 17.18 in the shot put on Day 8 of competition.
The 2022 outdoor season showcased Gumbs’ proficiency, propelling him to the NCAA Championships in both the discus and shot put, resulting in 22nd and 23rd place finishes, respectively. At the NCAA East Prelims, he accomplished a personal best in the shot, recording an astounding throw of 63-0.75 on his third attempt, a mark that now stands as the second-best in NSU history. Furthermore, he clinched his place in the discus with a throw of 183-5 on his third attempt, setting a new NSU record.
In the 2023 indoor season, Gumbs participated in five meets in the shot put, securing top-two finishes in four of them. His season-best effort of 62-2.25 at the Southland Conference Indoor Championships earned him a bronze medal.
Gumbs’ exceptional journey has not gone unnoticed, as he garnered numerous accolades, including recognition as the Southland Conference Men’s Newcomer of the Year and the Southland Conference Men’s Outstanding Field Events Performer for 2022.
Looking forward, Gumbs sets his sights on the next Commonwealth Games in Victoria, Australia, in 2026, with the aspiration of representing his nation once again, thereby expanding his impressive list of accomplishments. Djimon Gumbs continues to defy records and soar to new heights, leaving an indelible mark in the world of athletics.
Education
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando
Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.
The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.
“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”
The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.
Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.
For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.
Crime/Police
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
Local News
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
-
Crime/Police1 week ago
Two Charged with Gun Possession Following Vessel Search in Frenchman’s Cay
-
Local News1 week ago
Tola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support
-
Crime/Police2 weeks ago
K’Shawn Martin Wanted for Questioning in Shooting on Sandbox Road
-
Local News2 weeks ago
Virgin Islands Coach Earns Bodybuilding PRO Card in The Bahamas
-
Local News4 days ago
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
-
Entertainment2 weeks ago
Tortola Welcomes Exclusive Japanese Dining at 1748 Sushi Bar
-
Crime/Police3 days ago
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
-
Education2 days ago
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando