Local News
Rai Benjamin Stuns Karsten Warholm to Claim Men’s 400m Hurdles Gold
Kyron McMaster of the British Virgin Islands delivered a standout performance at the Paris Olympics today, August 9, 2024, clocking a season’s best of 47.79 seconds to secure 5th place in the fiercely competitive men’s 400m hurdles.
In a race that had the world on the edge of its seat, Rai Benjamin of the United States dethroned Norway’s Karsten Warholm, the world record holder and defending Olympic champion, by surging to victory with a blistering time of 46.46 seconds, seizing the gold and etching his name in Olympic history.
From the start, Warholm surged ahead, true to his reputation as one of the fastest starters in the sport. Brazil’s Alison dos Santos also began with a blistering pace, quickly closing the stagger and positioning himself as a key contender.
As the athletes rounded the final bend and entered the home stretch, it became clear that this race would be a battle of endurance as much as speed. Warholm, despite his explosive start, began to show signs of fatigue. Benjamin, however, had timed his race to perfection, powering ahead of Warholm in the final meters.
Benjamin crossed the finish line in 46.46 seconds, securing his first Olympic gold and dethroning the reigning champion. Warholm, visibly exhausted, managed to hold on for silver, clocking in at 47.06 seconds. His frustration was palpable as he let out a yell upon crossing the line, knowing his title had slipped away.
Alison dos Santos claimed the bronze medal with a time of 47.26 seconds.
The race also featured strong performances from other competitors. France’s Clément Ducos, fueled by the roaring support of the home crowd, delivered a commendable effort. Abderrahman Samba of Qatar was also in the mix, pushing hard in his quest for a podium finish.
Warholm’s world and Olympic record of 45.94 seconds, set in Tokyo, remains untouched. However, tonight belonged to Rai Benjamin, who proved that even the mightiest champions can be dethroned.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) is actively searching for three suspects who fled after an attempted home invasion in Cocodella on Monday afternoon.
Officers responded to a report of the incident shortly after 3 p.m. today, December 2. Upon arrival, they encountered four armed individuals. Shots were exchanged during the confrontation, resulting in the arrest of one suspect. The individual is currently in custody at the Road Town Police Station and is assisting with investigations.
The remaining suspects escaped on foot, with one believed to have sustained injuries during the encounter. Despite extensive searches, they have not been located.
The RVIPF has launched a full investigation and is appealing to the public for assistance. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 800-8477 (TIPS) or from overseas at (284) 800-8477. Information can also be provided to the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339.
All tips will be treated with strict confidentiality as authorities work to bring the suspects to justice.
A South African national was charged with manslaughter following a tragic marine collision that claimed the life of 39-year-old Stephen Cross Jr.
Lesley Joubert, 36, was taken into custody by officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) as part of their investigation into the incident. He appeared before the Magistrate’s Court and was granted bail set at $120,000 in cash. Joubert is expected to return to court on Tuesday, 11 February 2025.
The tragic event occurred on the evening of Friday, 22 November, near Saba Rock. Initial reports indicate that a 21-foot rigid-hulled inflatable boat (RHIB) collided with a dinghy, causing severe injuries to Mr. Cross, a resident of St. Thomas, USVI.
Cross was rushed to the Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic before being transferred to the Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital for advanced treatment. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, he succumbed to his injuries.
As investigations continue, the authorities have urged members of the public with any information relevant to the case to come forward.
The RVIPF assured the public that comprehensive investigations are underway to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
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