Regional
Gabby Thomas Claims Gold in 200-Meter at Paris Olympics
Gabby Thomas, the U.S. track and field star, has finally secured the gold medal that had long eluded her.
Thomas won first place in the 200-meter race with a 21.83 seconds on Tuesday, August 6, at the Paris Olympics.
The 27-year-old Thomas, known for her speed and resilience, outpaced Julien Alfred of St. Lucia, who took the silver, and Brittany Brown of the U.S., who claimed the bronze. The victory denied Alfred a double gold in both the 100-meter and 200-meter events, marking a significant achievement for Thomas on the world stage.
Thomas’s journey to gold has been marked by perseverance and determination. At the Tokyo Games, she secured a bronze in the 200-meter, finishing behind Jamaica’s Elaine Thompson-Herah and Namibia’s Christine Mboma. Additionally, she earned a silver medal as part of the U.S. 4×100-meter relay team.
Her performance in Paris not only marks a personal triumph but also solidifies her status as one of the sport’s biggest stars. This gold medal is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and unwavering spirit.
Thomas’s victory is a shining moment for U.S. track and field, adding another gold to the nation’s tally at the Paris Olympics. As she stood atop the podium, the national anthem playing and the American flag rising, it was clear that Gabby Thomas had etched her name into the annals of Olympic history.
The newly crowned Miss British Virgin Islands 2024, Adacia Adonis, secured a 4th place finish at the Miss Jaycees Queen Show 2024, the highest ranking ever achieved by a Miss BVI contestant.
Though she did not claim the top spot, Adonis stood out among the 11 contestants as she competed fiercely in the pageant held at the Antigua Recreation Ground on July 31.
The crown ultimately went to Shan Lucien of St. Lucia, who dominated the evening by winning several major awards, including Most True to the Theme, Best Talent, Best Modeling in Evening Wear, and Best Evening Wear. Lucien’s victory highlighted the competition’s theme, “Beauty Unbroken,” celebrating the resilience and spirit of Caribbean women.
Desrie Markham of Antigua and Barbuda earned the title of 1st runner-up, along with awards for Best Swimsuit and Congeniality, while Grenada’s Amonai Francis, the 2nd runner-up, took home the Interview Award. Miss Guadeloupe, Kaéna Rangassamy, was named Miss Photogenic.
This year’s Miss Jaycees Queen Show marked its 61st anniversary, continuing a rich tradition of celebrating Caribbean culture, beauty, and talent. The event, themed “Beauty Unbroken,” featured vibrant performances, stunning fashion, and showcased the enduring strength of women from across the region.
Since its inception in 1963, the Miss Jaycees Queen Show has become a cornerstone of Caribbean pageantry, drawing participants and spectators from across the globe. This year’s event was broadcast live, allowing a worldwide audience to witness the crowning of the 2024 queen and celebrate the achievements of all the contestants.
Photo: Miss Jaycees
In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Ernesto, the Virgin Islands is entering the recovery phase, with extensive efforts underway to restore normalcy across the Territory. The storm, which swept through with heavy rain and strong winds, left behind a trail of downed trees, power lines and debris, obstructing roads and disrupting services.
Premier Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley in a statement today, August 14, provided an update on the recovery operations.
“I hope and pray you have all made it safely through the worst of Ernesto,” Premier Wheatley said, underscoring the seriousness of the storm’s impact. He confirmed that crews from the Public Works Department, the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC), and telecommunications providers are actively working to clear the roads and restore essential services.
The Premier also acknowledged the critical role of district representatives and heavy equipment operators who have been instrumental in assisting their communities during this challenging time. “I acknowledge the district representatives and the heavy equipment operators who are assisting their communities at this time,” he noted.
As the Territory begins to recover, Premier Wheatley urged residents to prioritize safety by remaining indoors until an official all-clear is given. “Please protect your safety and the safety of our essential workers and allow these crews time to do their work,” he advised.
The National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) is expected to convene shortly to assess the situation further and coordinate ongoing efforts. Premier Wheatley assured the public that additional updates would be provided following the NEOC’s meeting.
Reflecting on the collective resilience of the Virgin Islands, the Premier offered words of gratitude and hope. “We are grateful to God for His protection. May His love and mercy be our shelter throughout the remainder of this Hurricane season,” he concluded.
– Investigating Fatal Shooting of Kalik S. Aaron
Anguilla police have detained a group of individuals bound for the Virgin Islands as part of their ongoing investigation into a fatal shooting that took place on Sunday night, August 11 .
The tragic incident claimed the life of Kalik S. Aaron, known locally as “Dusman,” a Virgin Islander, on Road Well Road, near Sandy Ground Pond.
The Royal Anguilla Police Force (RAPF) reported that the shooting occurred around 9:40 PM on August 11. Aaron was one of two victims caught in the violence. While Aaron sadly succumbed to his injuries, the other individual involved is currently receiving medical treatment for gunshot wounds.
The RAPF has confirmed the ongoing efforts to gather information and track down those responsible for the shooting.
The identity of the surviving victim has not been released, and the RAPF is urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Tips can be provided via the Emergency Hotline at 911, the RAPF’s Direct Line at 264-497-2333/5333, or through their confidential website at www.gov.ai/911.
Thirteen Restaurants to Serve Up Lobster Delights at Anegada Lobster Festival 2024
British Virgin Islands Financial Services Commission Welcomes New Leadership
`Stay in School’ Message Echoed at Willock’s D3 Back to School 2024
-
Local News2 weeks agoSearch Underway After Vessel Capsizes Off Jost Van Dyke, One Dead, One Missing
-
Local News2 weeks agoOil Spill Forces Temporary Road Closure in Fish Bay
-
Local News1 week agoThirty-Six Naturalized as British Citizens in Ceremony at Government House
-
Education2 weeks agoEighty Virgin Islands Public Officers Complete Customer Service Training
-
Elections 20232 weeks agoVirgin Islands Releases 2024 Preliminary Voters List for Public Review
-
Local News2 weeks agoBritish Virgin Islands Premier Leads Delegation to London for Key Talks on Governance, Finance, and Climate Change
-
Local News1 week agoMajor Road Rehabilitation Projects Underway
-
Business2 weeks agoXmas in July Donates £6,000 to Support Marine Conservation in the BVI