Local News
Brathwaite Sets Season’s Best at World Indoors, Just Misses Finals Qualification
British Virgin Islands sprinter Rikkoi Brathwaite clocked a new season’s best of 6.60 seconds on March 1, at the World Indoors Championships in Glasgow.
He finished fourth in Heat 2 of the semifinals, which earned him the 12th overall position out of 50 competitors, narrowly missing qualification for the finals of the 60m event.
Reflecting on his performance, Brathwaite expressed satisfaction, stating, “I came out and gave my all, and while my goal was to make it to the finals, I am satisfied with my performance.” He attributed his success to the unwavering support of the home crowd, acknowledging their encouragement on social media. “I know I have the home crowd supporting me,” Brathwaite remarked. “They’ve been with me from day one, and we are grateful for the support they show.”
Looking ahead, Brathwaite remains optimistic about his future in the sport. “I am grateful to be healthy, and I recognise that this is a process,” he said. “Each race, each meet, and each practice session provides an opportunity to learn and grow in the sport.”
Despite the conclusion of his competitive opportunities at the World Indoors 2024, Brathwaite remains committed to pursuing his dreams. “I love the sport, and I will fulfill my dreams,” he declared. “God has blessed me with the ability to compete against the world’s best, and I know the best is yet to come.”
With the Olympics on the horizon, Brathwaite is determined to continue his impressive performances. “I ran sub 10 last season in the 100m,” he noted. “It is only a matter of time before I do the same again.”
Currently residing and training in the Orlando area under the guidance of Coach Jean-Carlos Arroyo (Coach JC), Brathwaite boasts an impressive athletic resume. As the BVI National Record Holder in the 60m and 100m, a 2X Semifinalist qualifier at the World Indoor Championships, and a recipient of numerous other prestigious titles, Brathwaite’s journey in the world of sprinting is far from over.
The Crown Lands Management Bill, recently introduced by the Virgin Islands government, under the leadership of the Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, Premier and Minister of Finance, is set to transform the utilisation and safeguarding of land resources for the future.
“At the core of this bill lies a commitment to transparency and the interests of the community,” declared Premier Wheatley. “We have carefully crafted these regulations to reflect our historical context, current challenges, and aspirations for the future.”
The bill sets out strict criteria and processes for the disposal and leasing of Crown Lands, ensuring decisions are made transparently and in the best interest of the community. Key components of the legislation include sustainability, affordability, suitability for development, eligibility criteria and responsible management.
Furthermore, the bill mandates the establishment of a comprehensive Land Use Plan, a strategic tool to guide future land allocation and mitigate the adverse impacts of unsuitable development.
Dr. Ronald Smith-Berkeley, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, echoed Premier Wheatley’s sentiments, urging residents to familiarise themselves with the bill’s contents.
“The Virgin Islands Crown Lands Management Bill is crucial in shaping our collective future,” remarked Dr. Smith-Berkeley. “It is imperative for every member of our community to engage with this legislation, as it holds the key to our development and prosperity.”
The bill, which governs the administration, management, development, and use of all Crown lands, has already garnered attention and anticipation among residents. To encourage public participation, the government has made the bill accessible on the official Government of the Virgin Islands website, bvi.gov.vg, inviting feedback and comments from citizens.
A stabbing incident that occurred on May 12 at His Majesty’s Prison, resulted in inmate Shakeel Ryan being transported to Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital for medical treatment.
Meanwhile, another individual has been apprehended and is currently being questioned at the Road Town Police Station.
Ryan, who is incarcerated for conspiracy to murder, remained hospitalised at the time of publication.
Circumstances surrounding the incident are still unclear, and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
The retaining wall at the Social Security-funded homes in Joe’s Hill Manor Estate sustained substantial damage after heavy rains inundated the territory on May 7 and 8, leaving significant damage at multiple sites across the area.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported thus far, but efforts are underway to assess the full extent of the damage and ensure the safety of all affected areas.
In addition to the damage at Joe’s Hill Manor Estate, the torrential rains caused widespread flooding on the streets, with businesses on Flemming Street bearing the brunt of the floodwaters. The situation was compounded by erosion, landslides, and flash flooding on Virgin Gorda, rendering access to North Sound via Valley impassable and posing hazardous conditions for residents.
As a result of the adverse weather conditions, several banks across the region, including Bank of Asia (BVI), CIBC Caribbean, First Bank Virgin Islands, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Popular, Republic Bank (BVI) and VP Bank (BVI), were forced to close their doors.
In a precautionary move to prioritise public safety, all public schools across the territory were closed. However, as of today, May 9, they have reopened, except for Elmore Stoutt High School, which will resume face-to-face sessions on Friday, May 10th, 2024.
Virgin Islands Set for Crown Land Management Overhaul with New Legislation
Stabbing Incident Leaves Inmate Injured at His Majesty’s Prison
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