Local News
BVI Sprinter Jaleel Croal Shines Bright at American Conference Championships
Jaleel Croal representing South Florida University etched his name in the annals of track and field history when he was named the American Conference Most Valuable Performer on February 24.
“I didn’t really have anything in mind, it was just to go out and score points in both events to be honest,” Croal humbly shared when asked about his mindset going into the races.
Croal’s victory marks him as the 21st athlete from the BVI to secure a Conference crown since 1979, a fact he acknowledges with pride. “Knowing that history of being the 21st athlete from the BVI to secure a conference crown since 1979 is pretty cool,” he remarked.
With victories in both the 60m and 200m events, his success not only brings personal glory but also contributes to the broader legacy of BVI athletes, who have now accumulated an impressive total of 39 titles across 16 distinct Conferences. Reflecting on this, Croal admitted,
“To be honest, I didn’t know I would have gotten it all. I was minding my business while they announced the award winners, and all I heard was Bulls – not my name. Then my teammates were looking at me and cheering, so I was in disbelief. But the feeling hasn’t kicked in yet.”
Despite the challenges of a tight schedule between events, with only a 25-minute break separating the 60m and 200m finals, Croal remained unfazed. “There were no obstacles or challenges I had to overcome during the race,” he stated, acknowledging the support of his team and the belief they had in his abilities.
When asked about his training regimen and plans for the future, Croal emphasised his commitment to consistency and improvement. “I plan to honestly continue what I’ve been doing in practice and carry over everything from indoor to outdoor and just be better,” he said.
Throughout his journey, Croal found inspiration in witnessing his teammates’ successes, highlighting the importance of camaraderie and support in achieving individual goals. “My teammates and my support staff just believed in me to get the job done, and that’s all I needed,” he acknowledged.
Looking ahead, Croal remains focused on his ultimate goal: “My goal is to become a successful athlete in the world of track and field. That’s what I want for my athletic career.”
As Jaleel Croal continues to blaze a trail of excellence on the track, he hopes to inspire aspiring athletes, both in the British Virgin Islands and beyond.
Local News
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
The Governor’s Office, with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this week delivered Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) training to frontline officers in the Virgin Islands, including members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, prison officers and volunteers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR).
The program is designed to help first responders recognize and manage the psychological effects of traumatic incidents encountered in the course of their duties. Participants received instruction on identifying early signs of stress-related responses and providing peer support following critical events.
According to the Governor’s Office, the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare and resilience within frontline services across the territory.
“By strengthening welfare and resilience within our front line services, we are ensuring that the people who protect us are supported themselves,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement.
Officials thanked participants for their involvement and acknowledged the trainer for leading the sessions.
Trauma Risk Management, commonly known as TRiM, is a peer-support process used in emergency services and military settings to assess and address the mental health impact of traumatic exposure.
Maya Marcellin, Teen Universe British Virgin Islands, departed the territory on Feb. 22 for Nicaragua, where she will compete in the Teen Universe International Pageant.
Marcellin left the British Virgin Islands on Sunday accompanied by family members and supporters as she begins representing the territory in the international competition. The pageant will bring together contestants from several countries to compete in preliminary events leading up to the final show.
Supporters gathered prior to her departure to offer encouragement as she travels to Nicaragua to represent the British Virgin Islands on the international stage.
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
Andrea Wilson brings Caribbean colour to the NYFW debut
