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Sailing Towards Glory: Thad Lettsome Ready for Paris 2024 Olympics

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Thad Lettsome is set to represent the British Virgin Islands at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This achievement marks the culmination of years of dedication and hard work. When asked about his feelings, Thad shared, “It feels amazing to have achieved my goal. It’s incredibly satisfying as it demonstrates that hard work pays off.”

Thad first heard the news from his mother during a FaceTime call. “She FaceTimed me one day, which I thought was quite strange, and without any warning, shared the news with me. I then shared it with my brother, other immediate family, and my coaches,” he recounted, still buzzing with excitement.

With his Olympics debut on the horizon, Thad’s primary goal is to “leave it on the water and do everything I can to put the BVI flag ahead of as many others as possible.” He aims to ensure good starts in each race and to sail strategically smart upwinds. “I have been working hard at these aspects of the races with my coaches and training partners,” he added, his determination evident.

As he gears up for his races, Thad anticipates that the most challenging aspect will be the ability of all sailors to “come back” from bad positions due to their speed and experience. He plans to manage this by breaking the fleet down into smaller groups and focusing on staying ahead of the boats around him. His strategic approach showcases his tactical acumen and readiness for the high-stakes competition.

To prepare for the Laser class, Thad has focused intensely on fitness and proper preparation and recovery. He emphasises the physical nature of the Laser class, stating that it is “notoriously physical.” His rigorous training regimen reflects his commitment to peak performance.

Thad credits his coaches, including Brenda Bowskill, for being instrumental in his development and preparation. “Brenda supplements my training with technical advice, while my main coach, Chris Watters, provides overall structure, guidance, and support,” he said. The support from his coaches has been invaluable in refining his skills and boosting his confidence.

Balancing training with academics has been challenging, but Thad has received support from coaches, parents, and school staff. He graduated from Tabor Academy in 2020 and Tulane University in 2024. “It is certainly difficult to do both, but I’m assisted by coaches, my parents, staff at school, and others,” he explained, highlighting the teamwork that has been crucial to his success.

He plans to apply all the skill and knowledge he has acquired over the past 13 years and do his very best at the Olympics. “It is easy to stay focused when one is so eager to apply what they have learned and demonstrate their skill,” he noted, his excitement palpable.

The sailor is particularly looking forward to being among many people who have excelled in their fields and is excited about the opening ceremony. “Outside of competition, I’m certainly looking forward to the opening ceremony,” he shared, his enthusiasm infectious.

Managing the mental and physical pressures of the Olympics, Thad believes that staying focused on his goal of competing hard and applying what he has learned will help him manage the pressures. “Staying focused on my goal will prevent me from succumbing to pressure,” he said with determination.

Having raced against a majority of the fleet at various regattas, Thad plans to emphasise the importance of a good start in each race. “It will be crucial to try to get ahead from early as there will likely be fewer opportunities to pass competitors in such a small fleet,” he explained, showcasing his tactical insight.

Thad is currently focused on the task at hand but acknowledges that the Olympic experience will better him as a sailor regardless of what he chooses to do next. “The Olympics are an invaluable experience that will certainly better me as a sailor,” he said, looking forward to future challenges.

He sees great potential for sailing in the BVI and hopes his qualification will inspire youths and parents to embrace the nautical side of their culture. “I hope that my qualification for the games can serve as an inspiration to youths and parents alike,” he stated, his passion for sailing evident.

Qualifying for the Olympics has reinforced Thad’s belief that anything is possible through hard work and dedication. His family has been his main supporters throughout his journey. “My family and friends were ecstatic and proud upon hearing the news,” he shared, grateful for their unwavering support.

Thad encourages young athletes to find someone to train with and push them. “Never turn down an opportunity as you don’t know where it will lead,” he advised. He also emphasises the importance of envisioning oneself achieving their goals. “As long as you can see yourself achieving your goals, it doesn’t matter what others think,” he concluded, inspiring the next generation of athletes.

Local News

Fraser Appointed to Lead Environment and Planning in Cabinet Reshuffle

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Deputy Premier, Honourable Julian Fraser, has been appointed to lead the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, taking on expanded responsibilities that now include Building Inspection, Electrical Inspection, Housing, and Town and Country Planning. His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Daniel Pruce, formalised these changes through newly signed instruments of appointment, marking notable shifts in ministerial portfolios across key government departments.

The restructuring affects multiple ministries, beginning with the Premier’s Office, which will now oversee Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Veterinary services, previously managed under Environment. Additionally, Constitutional Advancement has been added as a formal subject of the Premier’s Office, strengthening its focus on constitutional issues.

Further changes see the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development gain oversight of Statistics, a function moved from Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, as well as District Councils, formerly managed by the Premier’s Office.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Financial Services, Labour, and Trade has been renamed the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development, and Digital Transformation. Its newly broadened remit includes Cooperatives, Industrial Development (including Incentives), Immigration, and the Registration Apprenticeship Training Employment Development (RATED) Programme, along with Weights and Measures.

The Ministry of Communications and Works will now oversee Alternative Energy, a responsibility previously under the Ministry of Environment, reflecting the government’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

The Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr Natalio Wheatley, remains responsible for the Premier’s Office, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Sustainable Development, and the Ministry of Financial Services, Economic Development, and Digital Transformation. Dr Wheatley will be supported by Junior Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries, Honourable Dr Karl Dawson, and Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism, Honourable Luce Hodge-Smith.

These adjustments reflect ongoing efforts to streamline government responsibilities, aligning ministerial remits to meet the evolving needs of the Virgin Islands. Under Section 56(1) of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order, 2007, the Governor, with advice from the Premier, holds authority to assign ministerial responsibilities in writing, facilitating this latest reorganisation in service of the Territory’s administrative goals.

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Visa-Free Access for Guyanese Effective From Nov. 1 

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 A Welcome Change, but with Mixed Reactions

The introduction of a visa-waiver for Guyanese travelling to the British Virgin Islands, aimed at deepening ties with the oil-rich nation, has prompted mixed reactions from both Guyanese residents in the territory and those at home.

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. Natalio Wheatley confirmed that as of November 1, citizens of Guyana would no longer need a visa to visit the British Virgin Islands for up to six months, whether for tourism or business. 

This move eliminates the often lengthy and complicated visa application process that had previously been a barrier for many.

“This step strengthens the bond between our countries and the region, facilitating greater ease in travel, trade, tourism, and investment. It underscores our shared vision of regional cooperation and opens new opportunities for people-to-people exchange. Many of our Caribbean brothers and sisters already benefit from visa-free access to the BVI, and we are pleased to extend this offer to Guyana, a giant in our Caribbean community,” Premier. Wheatley said during a press conference on September 30.

For many Guyanese, particularly those who have lived and worked in the BVI for more than two decades, the visa process had been a source of frustration. 

Long-time resident Natasha, who has called the BVI home for more than twenty years, welcomed the change, describing it as long overdue.

“It really is about time that this was done,” Natasha smiled. “I’ve lived in the BVI for over twenty years and was very annoyed when I had to get a visa after being granted a work permit. Made no sense to me, but what can I say—when you’re in another man’s country, you adhere to their rules.”

The issue was first raised during a 2023 trade mission, when both the BVI government and private sector visited Guyana.

The British Virgin Islands is keen to position itself as a key player in Guyana’s burgeoning oil industry, offering specialised services in finance and other sectors. 

At the same time, the Guyanese government is keen to ensure its citizens have the freedom to travel internationally with ease. Reflecting this shift, the United Kingdom in 2022 has also eased visa restrictions for Guyanese nationals.

While some share Natasha’s relief, others in Guyana are less enthusiastic. For many, the BVI has not been a primary travel destination, particularly as Guyana has gained visa-free access to the United Kingdom and streamlined visa procedures for European Schengen countries. 

A Guyanese, who resides in Georgetown, added that, “After we’ve been given visa-free access to the UK and we can now get our Schengen visa right here in Guyana, the BVI is not really at the top of my bucket list of places to visit.”

Indeed, the perception that this new policy will lead to a surge of visitors from Guyana appears exaggerated. 

A Guyanese who previously visited the BVI voiced her appreciation for the Territory but downplayed the likelihood of a major influx. 

“I love the BVI, and yes, I would visit again,” she said, “but this notion that we are going to be passing through in the hundreds to take up permanent residence in the BVI is utter foolishness. I am quite happy being home.”

The exemption reflects a broader move by the BVI government to ease restrictions for Caribbean nationals, pushing for regional unity and enabling greater mobility across islands with historical and cultural links. Guyana, with its vibrant economy and close community ties across the Caribbean, is seen as an important partner in this vision. 

While some are ready to embrace the opportunity, others view it as an optional advantage in an increasingly accessible world.

As the BVI opens its doors, the hope is that this policy will facilitate more meaningful exchanges between the two countries. 

But whether it will lead to significant shifts in travel patterns remains to be seen. 

In the words of Premier Wheatley, “We are pleased to extend this offer to Guyana,” but for many Guyanese, the decision may simply be a convenience, not a game-changer.

 

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Crime/Police

RVIPF Alerts Residents to Surge in Cryptocurrency Blackmail Scams

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The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has issued a warning to the public following a wave of blackmail scams targeting residents across the islands. Numerous individuals have reported receiving disturbing text messages demanding cryptocurrency payments, specifically in bitcoin, under threat of exposing allegedly compromising photos or sensitive information if they fail to comply.

RVIPF officials are advising residents to avoid responding or engaging with these messages. The police emphasize that scammers often exploit fear to pressure victims into payment, and any interaction can increase one’s vulnerability to further scams. Instead, recipients are encouraged to report these messages to the RVIPF for investigation and support.

“The RVIPF is actively investigating these cases to safeguard our communities,” said Detective Chief Inspector Kenrick Davis. “We urge residents to report any suspicious messages immediately and to avoid any communication with unknown or threatening contacts.”

To help reduce exposure to scams, the RVIPF advises the public to enhance their online privacy settings, particularly on social media, and to limit the sharing of personal information online.

If you receive or wish to report a blackmail attempt, please contact the RVIPF’s Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 for assistance and guidance.

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