Local News
Kyron McMaster Glides into 400m Hurdles Semi-finals
Kyron McMaster of the British Virgin Islands has emerged as a standout athlete in the preliminary heats of the 400m hurdles at the Paris Olympics, joining Jamaica’s national champion Malik James-King, Roshawn Clarke, and Jaheel Hyde in advancing to the semi-final round.
McMaster booked his spot with a time of 49.24 seconds this morning, August 5, securing third place in his heat. This marks a strong showing for Caribbean athletes in this event, as they continue to make waves on the global stage.
James-King, who posted a personal best of 47.42 to win the Jamaican national championships in June, delivered a smooth performance in the heats. He clocked 48.21 to comfortably win the last of five heats, securing his place as an automatic qualifier. Clarke, who finished second to James-King at the Jamaican trial, won Heat Four in a time of 48.17, ensuring his advancement to the semi-finals.
Hyde, competing in the opening heat against gold medal favourite Rai Benjamin, crossed the finish line in second place with a time of 49.08. Benjamin took the heat in an effortless 48.82. McMaster followed closely, securing third place in 49.24 to move on to the next round. “The main objective was to secure the automatic qualification, so once I positioned myself well in the first 250 metres, I just maintained my pace and eased to the finish. I focused on not aggravating anything and keeping my composure,” McMaster told the BVI Olympic Committee. He will compete in the semi-finals at 1:35 p.m. on Wednesday, 7 August.
Among the other medal favourites, Norway’s Karsten Warholm emerged as the fastest qualifier for the semi-finals, winning Heat Two in 47.57. Frenchman Clement Docus achieved a lifetime best of 47.69 to take second place, while Abderrahman Samba of Qatar finished third in 48.85. In another heat, Estonia’s Rasmus Magi led the pack with a winning time of 48.62, followed by the USA’s CJ Allen, who clocked 48.64. Brazil’s Alison dos Santos, another strong contender for a medal, secured his semi-final spot with a time of 48.85.
Defending champion Karsten Warholm safely advanced to the semi-finals of the men’s Olympic 400m hurdles after winning his heat at the Stade de France on Monday. Warholm, who set the world record when winning gold at the Covid-delayed Tokyo Games, clocked 47.57 in scorching early morning weather in Paris. Also progressing with ease were the Norwegian’s main rivals for gold: American Rai Benjamin and Brazilian Alison Dos Santos. Benjamin eased up a full 30 metres from the line to win the opening heat in 48.82 ahead of Jamaican Jaheel Hyde and Kyron McMaster of the British Virgin Islands. Dos Santos was a comfortable third behind heat winner Rasmus Magi of Estonia and American CJ Allen.
The semi-finals are scheduled for 17:35 GMT on Wednesday, with the final slated for 19:45 on Friday.
The stage is set for an exciting journey as three women step forward to compete for the title of Miss RVIPF 2025. The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) announced the contestants on February 1, describing them as confident women ready to take on the challenge.
The competition isn’t just about elegance—it’s about strength, intelligence, and service. Each contestant brings her own unique qualities, making this year’s event one to watch.
Meet the contenders:
- Contestant #1: Mrs. Tishema Smith-Ramprashad
- Contestant #2: Delma Tavernier
- Contestant #3: Joentha Bolton
This annual event has become a meaningful tradition, offering participants an opportunity to develop leadership skills while engaging with the community. More than just a title, the winner will represent the RVIPF in outreach programs, bridging the gap between law enforcement and the public.
The contestants will take part in various activities designed to test their poise, confidence and ability to inspire others.
Details on upcoming events and judging criteria will be shared soon.
The rhythmic sounds of steel pan music, the enticing aroma of roast pig, and the smooth taste of Caribbean rum will set the scene for an unforgettable experience this Saturday, February 1, as Paradise Club hosts its Food & Rum Festival at Cane Garden Bay.
This one-of-a-kind event promises nonstop entertainment and a cultural explosion of flavors from across the Caribbean. Patrons can look forward to a feast featuring local delicacies such as pot bread, roast plantain, salt fish, jerk, curry, BBQ, fish soup, and more. The festival is a celebration of island heritage, bringing together a mix of music, food, and the Caribbean’s finest rums.
With an impressive lineup of spirits on display, attendees will have the opportunity to sip on some of the region’s top rums, including BVI Vodka, Arundel Cane Rum, Don Q, Bacardi White Rum, BVI Gin, and Cruzan Rum. Whether guests are rum connoisseurs or first-time tasters, they can enjoy free samples and explore the distinct flavors that make each brand unique.
The festival is set to deliver an electrifying atmosphere, headlined by the CP-4 Entertainment Band, along with DJ performances and steel pan music that will keep the energy high throughout the day.
The event aims to showcase the best of BVI’s culinary and entertainment scene while offering visitors and residents alike a chance to revel in island culture.
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The Government of the Virgin Islands has launched a new public awareness campaign, “Business Done RIGHT”, to promote financial integrity and ensure that businesses across the territory remain free from financial crime. The initiative, introduced on 31st January 2025, aims to educate the public on recognising and reporting suspicious activities while reinforcing the BVI’s commitment to upholding international financial standards.
At the heart of the campaign is Riley Right, the newly introduced official mascot, who will appear across various platforms to help the community identify the warning signs of money laundering and other illicit activities. The initiative is designed to simplify complex financial crime concepts, making them more accessible and ensuring that both businesses and individuals understand their role in protecting the territory’s economy.
The campaign focuses on raising awareness of how financial crimes such as money laundering and terrorist financing affect businesses and the wider community. It highlights the importance of recognising suspicious transactions, complying with Know Your Customer requirements, and understanding why reporting financial crime is essential for maintaining a secure and reputable financial system. Through clear messaging and real-life examples, the initiative encourages vigilance and openness, urging residents and business owners to take action when they notice irregularities.
The initiative is led by the National Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Coordinating Council (NAMLCC), which is responsible for overseeing the BVI’s efforts to combat financial crime. By encouraging greater awareness and responsibility, the Government aims to strengthen the territory’s reputation as a leading financial jurisdiction while fostering a culture of transparency and ethical business practices.
CIBC Caribbean Helps Restock Family Support Network Pantry in BVI
Tortola Auto Group Rolls Out “Deals 2 Love” Sales Event for Valentine’s Day
Three Women Set Their Sights on Miss RVIPF 2025 Title
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