MEDIA BLAST - Mike's Blog

Grenada missed its moment on Eastern Parkway

2026-09-09T10:55:42.084-04:00

Commentary by Michael Bascombe

On Eastern Parkway on Monday, Caribbean culture was not only on parade but also being marketed.

The 59th New York Carnival Parade, organised by the West Indian American Day Carnival Association, drew a large street audience, while several New York television stations carried live or digital coverage. ABC7, for example, streamed its broadcast on its website, Disney+, YouTube, TikTok, and Facebook, bringing the celebrations to viewers far beyond Brooklyn. WIADCA describes the event as North America’s largest Caribbean carnival, while ABC7 called it the largest Caribbean cultural festival in the United States.

Several Caribbean destinations recognised the marketing value of that exposure.

Across the broadcasts monitored, representatives promoting Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Jamaica, Haiti, the United States Virgin Islands, and Trinidad and Tobago used their appearances to sell their culture, carnivals, and tourism products. Antigua and Barbuda looked beyond this year, promoting the 70th anniversary of its Carnival in 2027. Its government has already published the festival dates of July 20 to August 3.

PIX11 also included Trinidad-born Michael Manswell as an honorary co-host. Manswell is an award-winning dancer, singer, and choreographer who serves as artistic director of Something Positive Inc. His presence showed how cultural practitioners can help a destination’s traditions secure meaningful space within mainstream broadcasting.

What was not similarly visible was a coordinated Grenadian promotion involving the Spicemas Corporation (SMC) or the Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA).

That does not mean either agency undertook any activity in New York. The GTA has previously conducted meetings and promotions involving New York media, travel advisers, and airline representatives. However, there was no comparable Grenadian pitch evident during the parade broadcasts. If there was an activation away from the cameras, it did not reach the large television and online audience following the parade.

That was a missed opportunity.

The United States remains Grenada’s largest tourism source market, and the GTA itself identifies New York as one of the destination’s key markets. The GTA is responsible for destination marketing, while the SMC’s stated mandate includes promoting and organising Spicemas. Their responsibilities naturally meet when Grenada’s premier cultural festival is being sold overseas.

A proactive Grenadian presence could have included a prepared spokesperson, masqueraders in costume, cultural performers, and a concise television pitch explaining why viewers should choose Spicemas in 2027. Festival dates, travel packages, and a dedicated booking or information link could have been promoted while the audience was already thinking about Caribbean carnivals.

Antigua and Barbuda was selling next year’s festival. Grenada should have been doing the same.

Grenada also has a powerful but underused partner in New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams. He is a first-generation Brooklynite of Grenadian heritage, and the Grenada flag regularly accompanies him at major cultural events. His own office used a photograph of him waving the flag in its 2026 parade advisory.

In terms of sustained public visibility, Williams may be Grenada’s most consistent informal marketer in New York. Greater engagement with him should not mean politicising tourism or presuming his endorsement. It could involve seeking his advice, strengthening links with community organisations, and using his office’s reach to identify legitimate cultural and diaspora opportunities.

The wider lesson extends beyond Eastern Parkway. SMC and GTA should develop an annual overseas-events calendar covering Miami Carnival, Caribbean Premier League matches, and selected NBA, NFL, and LPGA events in markets with strong Caribbean communities or useful travel connections. Grenada does not need an expensive presence everywhere. It needs carefully selected activations with measurable objectives, bookable offers, and proper follow-up.

Spicemas also has a strong reputation as a comparatively safe and welcoming summer festival. If SMC and GTA intend to market it as the Caribbean’s safest, that claim should be supported by police, emergency-response, and event data, and then used confidently as part of the festival’s international appeal.

Grenada does not lack a product to sell. It has culture, music, traditional mas, Jab Jab, direct access to a major American market, and a sizeable diaspora willing to help.

What was missing on Monday was the organised pitch.

Eastern Parkway presents this opportunity every year. When the Caribbean has New York’s attention, Grenada cannot afford to remain quiet.

James returns to podium with third-place finish in Rovereto

2026-09-08T17:24:43.115-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

ROVERETO, Italy, Sep. 8, 2026 - Sir Kirani James returned to the podium on Tuesday, finishing third in the men’s 400 metres at the Palio Città della Quercia in Rovereto.

The Grenadian finished in 45.11 seconds at the World Athletics Continental Tour Silver meeting.

Canada’s Christopher Morales Williams won in 44.64, while Belgium’s Daniel Segers took second in 45.04.

James, running from lane four, finished seven-hundredths of a second behind Segers and 0.47 behind Morales Williams.

American Demarius Smith was fourth in 45.28, followed by South Africa’s Leendert Koekemoer in 45.30. Eugene Omalla of the Netherlands placed sixth in 45.94, while Italy’s Lorenzo Benati was seventh in 46.01.

Tuesday’s performance gave James his second podium finish in his three most recent European appearances.

The 2012 Olympic and 2011 world champion ran a season's best of 44.83 to place third at the Zurich Diamond League on August 27.

Three days later, he recorded another sub-45-second performance at the Grand Prix Brescia, clocking 44.92 for seventh in a tightly contested race won by Koekemoer in 44.52.

James’ latest appearance continued a busy closing period to his European season. His times across the three races were separated by less than three-tenths of a second.

The Rovereto meeting, staged at the Stadio della Quercia, was the 62nd edition of the Palio Città della Quercia.

GAA working towards national relay teams, Mitchell says

2026-09-05T20:22:16.158-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, Sep. 5, 2026 - The Grenada Athletics Association is working towards fielding national teams in the 4x100m and 4x400m relays, President Johnell Mitchell said Saturday, although he gave no timetable for the initiative.

Mitchell was speaking on the TalkSports programme in his first major interview following his election as GAA president.

He said discussions and other preparatory work were taking place but were not yet ready to be made public.

“We have quite a few of our athletes who are running good times — 46s, 45s,” Mitchell said. “We have to be able to get them together, and it is a direction that we are moving in.”

He said the GAA’s objective extended beyond forming a single 4x400m team.

“In time to come, I’m going to say to you and to the general public, we will have a relay team out there — not a relay team, but we’re going to have 4x100s and 4x400s,” he said.

Mitchell also identified the development and retention of female athletes as an area requiring closer attention.

“We need to do something about our female athletes and the direction of our female athletes,” he said. “That’s one of the areas we’ve kind of dropped off in recent times.”

The GAA president referred to Suerena Alexander and Jamara Patterson among the country’s established female athletes, but said too few promising juniors were progressing successfully into the senior ranks.

“We need to probably take a deep dive into what’s happening with our young female athletes who we see performing well,” he said.

Mitchell also highlighted triple jumper Christanna Charles, whom he described as a well-rounded athlete with the potential to progress if she continues to receive proper guidance and support.

The comments identify relay development and the transition of female athletes among Mitchell’s early priorities. However, the GAA has not yet announced implementation dates, selection standards, or targeted competitions for the proposed relay teams.

Peters claims another European podium; James seventh in Brescia

2026-08-30T18:09:47.469-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

BERLIN, Germany, Aug. 30, 2026 - Anderson Peters secured his second podium finish in four days with a runner-up effort in the men’s javelin at ISTAF Berlin on Sunday, while fellow Grenadian Kirani James ran under 45 seconds but placed seventh at the Grand Prix Brescia in Italy.

Peters recorded a best throw of 83.32 metres, finishing behind Germany’s Julian Weber, who delighted the home crowd with a winning effort of 89.54m.

The two-time world champion entered the final round in second place with 83.10m before improving by 22 centimetres with his last attempt.

Weber also saved his best for the final round, moving from 85.59m to 89.54m to secure the victory.

American Marc Anthony Minichello finished third with 83.28m, just four centimetres behind Peters. Germany’s Nick Thumm was fourth with 83.10m.

Sunday’s result gave Peters another runner-up finish after his season-best throw of 86.93m at the Zurich Diamond League on Thursday.

In Brescia, James completed the men’s 400m in 44.92 seconds but had to settle for seventh in a race separated by narrow margins.

South Africa’s Leendert Koekemoer won in 44.52, with Dutch runner Jonas Phijffers second in 44.61. Australia’s Reece Holder secured third in 44.63.

James finished only four-tenths of a second behind the winner and 0.29 outside the podium. His performance was his second sub-45-second clocking in four days, following his season best of 44.83 for third in Zurich.

There were two victories for OECS athletes at the Brescia meeting.

St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Shafiqua Maloney won the women’s 800m in one minute, 58.03 seconds.

Ireland’s Sophie O’Sullivan finished second in 1:58.60, narrowly ahead of Italy’s Eloisa Coiro, who took third in 1:58.62.

Dominica’s Olympic champion Thea LaFond won the women’s triple jump with 14.50m, achieved in the third round against a 1.6 metres-per-second headwind.

Bulgaria’s Gabriela Petrova placed second with 14.17m, while Jamaica’s Ackelia Smith completed the podium with 14.13m.

NACAC President urges CARICOM to establish wider sports committee

2026-08-29T17:23:32.327-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

NASSAU, Bahamas, Aug. 29, 2026 - President of the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC), Mike Sands, is calling for CARICOM to consider establishing a high-level sports commission or subcommittee, arguing that Caribbean political leaders need more structured and continuous engagement with sport beyond the regional grouping’s existing focus on cricket.

Speaking on Saturday’s TalkSports programme, Sands suggested that CARICOM could identify one of its political leaders to chair such a body and help ensure that sport receives greater attention as part of the region’s development agenda.

“Maybe it’s time for CARICOM to select one of those leaders to be the chair of a sports commission, if they don’t already have one,” Sands said.

During the discussion, it was noted that CARICOM has a prime ministerial subcommittee dealing with cricket. Sands said the concept should be widened.

“There should be a subcommittee probably for sports. That’s the point I make - not just cricket, sport,” he said.

Sands believes there is an opportunity to build on the recent engagement between CARICOM and regional athletics, particularly as preparations begin for Guyana to host the 2027 CARIFTA Games.

He disclosed that discussions surrounding the Games included the prospect of inviting, at minimum, CARICOM ministers responsible for sport.

“If we really want to sensitise our heads to the importance of sport, I think they need to be gathered in one place on a more regular basis,” Sands said.

He argued that such engagement should continue irrespective of changes in political administrations.

“Politics change the individual, but it should not change some principle things about nation-building,” he said, adding that political leaders and ministers responsible for sport and education have important roles in preparing the next generation.

Sands also stressed that any regional initiative should recognise the wider CARIFTA family and not be confined solely to CARICOM membership.

He noted that while all CARIFTA members may not belong to the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), OECS members form part of the CARIFTA structure. The wider athletics family also includes territories outside CARICOM, which Sands said must be considered in any regional approach.

Beyond political cooperation, Sands said the 2027 Games should leave Guyana with tangible benefits.

“First of all, I think you have improved facilities. Let’s start with that. And you’ve got your full inventory of equipment,” he said.

Sands also expects knowledge gained from hosting the Games to remain with local officials, coaches, and athletes.

He said one of the longer-term outcomes should be a stronger relationship between CARICOM and the wider CARIFTA sporting community, creating more regular dialogue on the contribution sport can make to national and regional development.

Regulatory disparities delaying end of CARICOM roaming charges - CTU

2026-08-27T17:31:19.220-04:00

Governments urged to harmonise taxes and telecommunications rules across the region

by Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, Aug. 27, 2026 - Differences in taxes and telecommunications regulations across CARICOM Member States remain a major obstacle to the full elimination of mobile roaming charges, according to Secretary-General of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU), Rodney Taylor.

Taylor said regional telecommunications providers have argued that they cannot introduce a single domestic-style arrangement while operating under different regulatory and tax requirements in each country.

“The operators have said we’re not able to do this because there’s disparity in regulatory regimes within the CARICOM Member States,” Taylor told reporters on Tuesday.

He was speaking during a media conference on the sidelines of the 22nd Caribbean Internet Governance Forum at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort.

Taylor said some telecommunications taxes and charges imposed in countries such as Jamaica and Barbados do not apply in Grenada or Saint Lucia. He said governments and regulators must therefore work towards harmonising their rules before the region can achieve the complete removal of roaming charges.

“We have some work to do on our side as governments and regulators to ensure that there’s also harmonisation on the regulatory side,” he said.

CARICOM took an initial step in February 2022 with the signing of the Declaration of St George’s Towards the Reduction of Intra-CARICOM Roaming Charges.

The agreement, reached with Digicel Group and Cable & Wireless Communications, introduced lower and more predictable rates for regional voice calls, text messages and mobile data. However, it stopped short of eliminating roaming charges.

Taylor stressed that the 2022 agreement was intended as a step towards the wider objective of allowing CARICOM residents to use their domestic mobile packages while travelling within the region.

He recalled Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley describing the desired arrangement as one in which Caribbean people could “roam like you’re at home, because you are at home within the region.”

Taylor pointed to the European Union, where customers can generally use their domestic mobile plans while travelling between participating countries without paying additional roaming charges.

He said the same principle should eventually apply to people travelling between Grenada, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Saint Lucia and other CARICOM countries.

The CTU Secretary-General noted that the main telecommunications providers already manage their networks on a regional basis. Once governments address the differences in taxes and regulations, he said, the operators should have little justification for maintaining high roaming fees.

Taylor said customers travelling within the region should already be able to purchase roaming packages introduced under the St George’s Declaration.

“Coming out of the Declaration of St George’s, you should be able to buy a roaming passport for any destination that you go to within the Caribbean,” he said. “If you get a high bill, call me.”

He also pointed to the growing availability of electronic SIM cards, or eSIMs, which allow travellers to purchase data plans without changing a physical SIM card. Taylor said he has used inexpensive eSIM packages during his international travels for services such as Google Maps, video streaming and ride-hailing applications.

“The era of high and ridiculous roaming charges should be over right now,” he said. “Certainly, within the CARICOM Single ICT Space, it should not exist.”

Taylor said the CTU would continue working with national regulators, including National Telecommunications Regulatory Commissions, and emerging regional regulatory bodies to address the remaining disparities.

He did not provide a timetable for the complete elimination of roaming charges.

Peters and James earn podium finishes on record-breaking night in Zurich

2026-08-27T16:53:17.058-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

ZURICH, Switzerland, Aug. 27, 2026 - Anderson Peters and Kirani James produced season-best performances to secure podium finishes for Grenada at the Zurich Diamond League on Thursday, on a night when two world records were broken at the Letzigrund Stadium.

Peters finished second in the men’s javelin throw with 86.93 metres, while James placed third in the men’s 400 metres in 44.83 seconds.

Peters recorded his season's best in the opening round and held the early lead before Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage moved ahead with 88.23m in the second round.

Pathirage strengthened his position with 89.90m in the third round before producing a winning throw of 92.07m with his final attempt.

Peters followed his opening effort with throws of 82.17m, 83.52m, 84.22m and 82.08m before fouling in the last round. Poland’s Dawid Wegner took third with a season best of 85.16m.

“The energy here is always nice, and we had some really good throws today,” Peters said. “I am grateful for the season best, but I started to miss the javelin a little bit. We are heading in the right direction, and the aim is to peak at the Ultimate Championships.”

The two-time world champion said finding the right balance in his approach remains important as he prepares for his remaining competitions.

“Today, maybe I was a little bit too relaxed,” he said. “At the previous competition, I was a bit faster and a little more tense. It’s always about finding the balance of how we should approach the competition.”

Peters, whose personal best is 93.07m, remains confident that another throw beyond 90 metres is within reach.

“My PB is 93m. I am capable of throwing 90m,” he said. “The plan was to throw it even today, but I was a bit too comfortable. I am ready for the next one.”

James also recorded his fastest time of the season in the additional men’s 400m, which was not part of the Diamond League points programme.

Running from lane six, the Grenadian finished strongly to take third in 44.83 seconds.

Japan’s Yuki Joseph Nakajima won the race in a season best of 44.62, with Italy’s Edoardo Scotti second in 44.70. American Vernon Norwood placed fourth in 44.92.

The evening’s biggest performances came in the hurdles.

Brazil’s Alison dos Santos stormed to a world record of 45.80 seconds in the men’s 400m hurdles, lowering the previous mark of 45.94 set by Norway’s Karsten Warholm at the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021.

Warholm finished second in 46.69, while Nigeria’s Ezekiel Nathaniel was third in 47.50.

Less than half an hour later, Masai Russell of the United States established a world record in the women’s 100m hurdles, clocking 12.09 seconds in still conditions.

Russell erased the previous record of 12.12 set by Nigeria’s Tobi Amusan in 2022. Amusan finished second on Thursday with a season best of 12.23, while Nadine Visser of the Netherlands was third in 12.34.

Saint Lucia’s Julien Alfred led the other notable Caribbean performances, winning the women’s 100m in a national record of 10.70 seconds despite a 0.7 metres-per-second headwind.

American Melissa Jefferson-Wooden was also credited with 10.70, but Alfred was awarded the victory following a photo finish. Sha’Carri Richardson of the United States placed third in 10.97.

“Staying at the top is definitely a harder job than making it up there,” Alfred said. “We have a long way to go in Saint Lucia, but we are getting there. A national record puts Saint Lucia on the map.”

Jamaica’s Rajindra Campbell finished second in the men’s shot put with 22.22m. American Jordan Geist won with a personal best of 22.53m, while Italy’s Leonardo Fabbri was third with 22.16m.

Rushell Clayton added another podium finish for Jamaica, placing third in the women’s 400m hurdles in 53.17 seconds. She missed second place by one-hundredth of a second, with American Dalilah Muhammad clocking a season best of 53.16.

Anna Cockrell of the United States won the race in a world-leading and meeting-record time of 52.13.

Zurich was the final regular-season meeting before the two-day Diamond League Final in Brussels on September 4 and 5. Peters has qualified to represent Grenada in the men’s javelin final, while James’ race in Zurich was outside the championship points series.

Grenada approves licence for new 5G mobile operator

2026-08-27T16:44:02.055-04:00

AI-assisted passenger processing system also planned for 2027

by Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, Aug. 27, 2026 - Grenada has approved a licence for a new mobile telecommunications operator that is expected to introduce 5G service to the country, according to Chairman of the National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (NTRC), Vincent Roberts.

Roberts made the disclosure during a media conference on Tuesday but did not identify the company or provide a date for the start of its operations.

“I wouldn’t be saying anything out of form if I say that Grenada has just approved a licence for a new mobile operator,” he told reporters. “It is not in the public domain as yet, but we will be having a 5G operator in Grenada very soon.”

The announcement was made on the sidelines of the 22nd Caribbean Internet Governance Forum, held from August 24–26 at the Radisson Grenada Beach Resort.

Roberts also outlined plans for the introduction of an Advance Passenger Information System and AI-assisted processing of arriving travellers.

Under the system, Grenadian authorities would receive passenger information before a traveller arrives in the country. Roberts said facial-recognition technology could then be used to match an arriving passenger with the information already received, allowing those cleared by the system to move through immigration more quickly.

He said the technology could also provide a personalised greeting to returning travellers as they pass through the arrival area.

Roberts indicated that work on the system could begin before the end of 2026, with implementation expected during 2027.

“When you book a flight, and you’re coming to Grenada, we will receive the information beforehand,” he explained. “As you’re walking through the corridor to go to immigration, they will use a photograph to match it with the advance information.”

The Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Record Bill, which went before Parliament earlier this year, provides a legal framework for the collection, processing, sharing, and protection of information relating to people travelling to, from, or through Grenada.

It also provides for the establishment of a Passenger Information Unit and the appointment of a Data Protection Officer.

Roberts said the passenger system forms part of a wider digital transformation programme that includes digitised civil, land, birth, and death registries.

He said greater information-sharing among government departments should eventually remove the need for citizens to obtain documents from one agency to present to another.

Using a passport application as an example, Roberts said applicants should not have to produce a birth certificate when that information is already held by the government.

He also pointed to the recently approved Digital Transformation Agency legislation, which is intended to coordinate digital projects across government and reduce separate ministries developing incompatible systems.

Roberts said considerable technical and legal work had been required before implementation could begin.

“Grenada is on the cusp of big things happening,” he said. “It took a lot of foundational work, making sure that the technical and legal framework is in place so that implementation can start.”

No further information was provided about the new mobile operator’s coverage plans or commercial launch. Details on the cost, procurement, and final operation of the proposed AI-assisted passenger processing system were also not disclosed.

James and Peters set for Zurich Diamond League action

2026-08-26T16:54:35.642-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

ZURICH, Switzerland, Aug. 26, 2026 - Kirani James and Anderson Peters will carry Grenada’s colours at the Weltklasse Zürich meeting on Thursday, the final stop before next month’s Wanda Diamond League Final in Brussels.

James will compete in the men’s 400 metres, while Peters will line up in the men’s javelin throw at the Letzigrund Stadium.

Drawn in lane six, James will face Switzerland’s Manuel Gerber, Haydn Brotschi, Lionel Spitz and Ricky Petrucciani, along with Japan’s Yuki Joseph Nakajima, American Vernon Norwood and Italy’s Edoardo Scotti.

Although the race does not carry Diamond League points, it offers James a competitive field. Norwood has the fastest season’s best among the starters at 44.58 seconds, followed by Scotti at 44.96. James enters the race with a season’s best of 45.04.

James has enjoyed success in Zurich before. He won the Diamond League 400m title at the same venue in 2022, clocking 44.26 seconds.

The 2012 Olympic champion has not competed on the Diamond League championship circuit this season, however, and will not be part of the 400m final in Brussels.

Peters, meanwhile, has already secured his place in the javelin final and will use Thursday’s competition as another test against some of the leading throwers in the world.

The two-time world champion will face Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage, who leads the 2026 world list with 92.62m, as well as Curtis Thompson of the United States, Keshorn Walcott of Trinidad and Tobago and Germany’s Thomas Röhler.

The field also includes Julius Yego of Kenya, Patriks Gailums of Latvia, Marc Anthony Minichello of the United States, Dawid Wegner of Poland and Switzerland’s Simon Wieland.

Peters has a season’s best of 86.69m and will be seeking a strong performance before turning his attention to the Diamond League title.

Zurich is the penultimate stop on the overall Diamond League calendar and the final qualifying meeting of the season.

The Allianz Memorial Van Damme will host the two-day Diamond League Final at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels on September 4 and 5. The leading athletes from the 2026 series will compete across 32 events for the Diamond League titles and trophies.

Peters will represent Grenada in the men’s javelin final, while Thursday’s race in Zurich will be James’ final appearance on the Diamond League calendar this season.

John wins World Masters gold with championship record

2026-08-25T11:10:46.906-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

DAEGU, South Korea, Aug. 25, 2026 - Nigel “Bunto” John has won Grenada’s first gold medal at the World Masters Athletics Championships (WMAC), setting a championship record.

John won the men’s M50 long jump on Tuesday with 6.64 metres, improving the previous championship record of 6.59m. He finished just 20 centimetres short of the world record of 6.84m.

“To win Grenada’s first gold medal at the World Masters Championships and to do it with a championship record means a lot to me,” John, who is based in Canada, told GrenadaSports.

“This is my first World Masters Championships representing Grenada, so I am very proud to be able to deliver this performance for the country.”

The title was decided by a single centimetre. Bakri Daroueche of France took the silver medal with 6.63m, while former Jamaican Olympian James Beckford secured bronze with 6.33m.

Beckford was the long jump silver medallist at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, finishing behind American great Carl Lewis.

John said his winning effort could have been considerably longer.

“I went beyond seven metres, but I fell backwards, and my hands touched the sand behind me,” he explained.

“That is where they had to measure from, so the jump was recorded at 6.64. I missed the world record, but I am thankful that it was still enough to win the gold medal and set a new championship record.”

Grenada’s participation in the championships continues on Thursday, South Korean time. John will return for the M50 200m, while Curtis Brereton will compete in the M65 5,000m.

Both athletes are also entered in the 400m, with competition beginning on Saturday. John is scheduled to compete in the M50 400m on Sunday, August 30 - Saturday night in the Caribbean.

The date carries special significance for Grenada. It will be exactly 15 years since Kirani James won the men’s 400m at the 2011 World Athletics Championships at the same stadium in Daegu.

For John, the gold medal is also an opportunity to bring greater attention to masters athletics in Grenada.

He hopes the performances in Daegu will lead to recognition from the Grenada Athletics Association.

“We have made several attempts to get recognition from the GAA, but we have not been successful,” he told GrenadaSports.

“I am hoping the performances here will help to change that and open the door for discussion. We are representing Grenada and doing our best for the country.”

John expressed appreciation to the Government of Grenada for assisting the athletes with travel and accommodation.

“I must thank the Government of Grenada for the assistance with our travel and accommodation,” he said. “That support helped to make it possible for us to be here and compete.”

He also hopes the achievement will encourage more people to become involved in and support Grenada Masters Athletics, which was formed in 2015.

“I hope this medal inspires more people to get involved and support Grenada Masters Athletics,” John said. “We want to continue competing, representing Grenada and helping masters athletics to grow.”

The World Masters Athletics Championships continue at Daegu Stadium until September 3.

Carriacou-rooted coach Jonathan Alexis joins Towson University

2026-08-24T20:44:16.873-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

TOWSON, Maryland, Aug. 24, 2026 - Brooklyn-born track and field coach Jonathan Alexis, whose family roots are in Carriacou, has joined Towson University’s track and field and cross-country coaching staff.

Alexis will serve as an assistant coach, responsible for the jumps and multi-events. His appointment was announced on Monday by Towson head coach Consandria Walker-Hall.

Although born in Brooklyn, New York, Alexis has strong ties to Grenada through the sister isle of Carriacou.

He moves to the Maryland-based university after spending the past three years as an assistant coach at Alabama State University. There, he worked mainly with jumpers, pole vaulters, and multi-event athletes.

During his time at Alabama State, Alexis helped to develop several NCAA qualifiers and contributed to four Southwestern Athletic Conference team championships. He also helped develop some of the leading collegiate jumpers in the United States.

Walker-Hall said Alexis brings valuable experience and a record of success to the programme.

“He brings a proven record of success at every level,” she said, adding that she expects him to make an immediate contribution to Towson’s athletes and coaching staff.

Alexis welcomed the opportunity to begin another chapter in his coaching career.

“I am thankful to Coach Walker for giving me this opportunity,” he said. He is looking forward to working with the staff and athletes as the programme builds on its recent progress.

Before joining Alabama State, Alexis coached at Iowa Central Community College, Carver Academy in Virginia and his alma mater, Virginia Union University.

His work at Iowa Central covered jumps, combined events, sprints, hurdles and middle-distance events. Under his guidance, Iowa Central produced top-ranked NJCAA groups in the decathlon, heptathlon, high jump, long jump and triple jump on several occasions.

Alexis was also named the U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association’s Midwest Region Assistant Coach of the Year five times.

He holds several professional qualifications, including USATF Level I certification and USTFCCCA technical and combined-events certifications.

Alexis earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Virginia Union University and an Associate of Arts degree from Kingsborough Community College in Brooklyn.

GAA has an opportunity to chart a new course

2026-08-22T19:47:57.117-04:00

Sports Commentary by Michael Bascombe

The elections are over, and now the real work begins for the newly elected executive of the Grenada Athletics Association (GAA).

Congratulations to President Johnell Mitchell and his team. We wish them well because Grenadian athletics needs them to succeed.

This is an opportunity for a new beginning, not simply a change of names around the executive table, but a different approach to how the sport is administered, how athletes are treated, and how the association communicates with its stakeholders.

Judging from the many comments during Saturday's TalkSports programme, rebuilding trust must be among the new executive's immediate priorities.

Current national athlete Gamali Felix offered perhaps the clearest assessment when he said the GAA needs greater "transparency, accountability, and people who genuinely care about the sport and the athletes."

Felix also pointed to Grenada's talent, facilities, and potential, while calling for clearer communication about funding, development, team selections, and the overall direction of athletics.

Former national athletes Nathaniel Mark and Kim Fullerton expressed similar sentiments. Mark called for "a fresh approach built on openness, accountability, strong leadership," while Fullerton argued that "the same old can't be acceptable."

Those voices should not be ignored or treated as criticism for criticism's sake. They give the new executive an indication of where some of the dissatisfaction exists and, importantly, where the rebuilding process can begin.

Athletes, including those attending high schools and colleges at home and overseas, should feel connected to the GAA throughout the year, not only when national teams are being selected. There have been complaints from athletes about feeling neglected and then suddenly being contacted when their services are required to represent Grenada.

Parents have also used social media to express frustration over communication, the treatment of athletes, and, at times, their interaction with administrators.

That relationship needs attention.

Mitchell now has an opportunity to demonstrate his leadership and establish an administration with its own identity and direction. This is his opportunity to lead, while drawing on the experience and skills of the people elected alongside him.

Governance must also be part of that new direction. The GAA's constitution, by-laws, membership requirements, electoral procedures, and other important documents should be easily accessible. Clubs and affiliates must understand their responsibilities and rights, and communication cannot become something that happens only around elections or major championships.

There are also opportunities beyond administration.

The InterCol Championships provide the GAA with a ready-made platform to strengthen relationships with schools, identify emerging talent, and develop commercial partnerships. Grenadian athletics has a product that corporate Grenada should be encouraged to support, but it must be packaged and managed professionally.

Grenada has produced Olympic champions, world champions, and internationally respected athletes. The administrative structure supporting the sport should aspire to the same standard.

If Mitchell and his executive members can work collectively, put aside egos and past differences, listen to athletes and clubs, and genuinely place development first, the GAA can move along a different trajectory.

And congratulations to everyone who offered themselves for service during the elections. Their expertise should not be lost. There should be opportunities for them to contribute through the GAA's various subcommittees.

The election is finished. Now comes the harder part: rebuilding trust, restoring confidence, and charting a new course for Grenadian athletics.

Mitchell elected president of new GAA executive

2026-08-22T16:11:02.136-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, Aug 22, 2026 - Johnell Mitchell has been elected president of the Grenada Athletic Association (GAA), moving up from First Vice President to lead a new seven-member executive through 2029.

Mitchell was elected during the association’s Annual General Meeting at the National Cricket Stadium on Saturday. He succeeds Conrad Francis, who did not seek re-election.

Mike Baptiste was elected First Vice President, while Albert Joseph will serve as Second Vice President.

Desiree Stephen retained the position of General Secretary, with Aida Bedminister-Joseph elected Assistant General Secretary. Vaughn Joseph is the new Treasurer, and Shere-Ann Noel will serve as Public Relations Officer.

Mitchell and Stephen are the only two members of the new executive who served under Francis. The other five are new to the association’s leadership.

The new board will be responsible for overseeing the development of athletes, clubs, competitions, and national programmes during its term.

Mitchell said the executive will hold its first meeting on September 1, when its members will begin discussing their priorities and the preparation of a strategic plan.

“There are several things I would like to see as the new president, including stronger club structures and greater stakeholder engagement,” Mitchell told GrenadaSports. “But I want to discuss those matters as an executive and get their input as we begin putting our strategic plan in place.”

He also called on the new executive to work together and build upon the association’s long history.

“We have inherited a foundation from over 100 years and need to leave it better than we received it,” Mitchell said.

Kerlon Peters, who also contested the presidency, congratulated the newly elected team and extended his best wishes for its term in office.

“Thank you for the support, and congratulations to the new GAA team,” Peters said. “I am grateful for all the support as we continue to work for the development of sports.”

Team Kerlon Peters announces slate for GAA elections

2026-08-21T17:03:52.834-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, August 21, 2026 - Team Kerlon Peters on Friday announced its seven-member slate to contest the Grenada Athletic Association’s elections on Saturday.

Peters will contest the presidency, with Mike Baptiste seeking the post of First Vice President and Albert Joseph nominated for Second Vice President.

Jamila Lewis will contest the position of General Secretary, while Valene Hagley will seek election as Assistant General Secretary.

Vaughn Joseph is the team’s candidate for Treasurer, while Lester Smith will contest the position of Public Relations Officer.

Peters said the slate brings together professionals with experience in several fields, including sport and administration. All seven candidates have also been involved in track and field.

“I am answering the call to serve, and I am confident in the people who have agreed to be part of this team,” Peters said.

“We have assembled a balanced slate, with each person bringing different skills and professional experience. At the same time, every member understands athletics and the work required to move the sport forward.”

Peters said the association needs people who can work together and listen to athletes, coaches, clubs, officials and other stakeholders.

“No one person can manage the association alone,” he said. “We believe we have a team capable of working together and putting the development of athletics first.”

The elective general meeting will be held at the Kirani James Athletic Stadium, beginning at 10:00 a.m.

GAA must clear the air before Saturday’s election

2026-08-20T18:41:27.610-04:00

Sports Commentary by Michael Bascombe

Before the Grenada Athletic Association casts a single vote at its elective general meeting on Saturday, August 22, it needs to clear up the questions now hanging over the process.

The association recently circulated a list of affiliates deemed eligible to participate in the election. That list should have brought clarity. Instead, it has created more confusion.

Several clubs and schools that competed in GAA-sanctioned events this year are not listed among the eligible affiliates. Those events included the National Relay Meet, National Championships and Whitsuntide Games.

Among the missing clubs are Top Flight Athletics of St John, Momentum Track and Field of St Mark and Altitude Track Club of St Andrew. These are not unfamiliar names. They have athletes competing regularly and have been part of the local athletics season.

Let us be fair: paying an entry fee to compete in an event may not be the same as paying an annual affiliation fee. Participation in a sanctioned meet may not automatically carry voting rights. Schools may also be allowed to enter competitions without holding the same membership status as athletics clubs.

But that distinction is precisely what the GAA must explain.

If these organisations were permitted to register athletes, pay event fees and compete under their club or school names, were they told that they were not financial affiliates? Were they given notice of the outstanding affiliation requirements? Was there a deadline by which fees had to be paid for them to participate in the electoral process?

Or were they accepted throughout the season to encourage maximum participation, only to discover shortly before the election that they could not vote?

We understand that both Altitude Track Club and Top Flight Athletics are questioning their omission from the list of financial affiliates. Representatives of both clubs have confirmed that their affiliation fees were paid at the start of the year.

Those payments should be easy for the GAA to verify against its receipts and financial records. If the clubs are financial, the list should be corrected before Saturday. If there is another reason for their exclusion, the association should explain it clearly.

There are also no clubs or schools from Carriacou and Petite Martinique listed among the affiliates eligible to participate in the election. For an organisation responsible for athletics throughout the State of Grenada, that absence should be concerning.

It may point to a wider problem with the structure of athletics in the sister isles rather than anything connected directly to the election. Either way, it deserves attention. A national association should be able to demonstrate that it is creating opportunities for organised clubs and schools across Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique.

The uncertainty surrounding the date of the meeting has not helped.

The election was constitutionally due in January at the end of the executive’s four-year term. It was postponed to maintain administrative continuity ahead of Grenada’s hosting of the CARIFTA Games in April.

That explanation was understandable. However, several people with whom I have spoken said they were informed that the elective meeting had been rescheduled for September. It is now being held on August 22.

Who decided to change the date? When was that decision taken? When and how were affiliates officially notified? Did the notice satisfy the requirements of the GAA’s constitution? Were clubs given enough time to settle outstanding fees, nominate candidates and prepare for the meeting?

The timing has attracted further attention because Kerlon Peters, who has confirmed his interest in contesting the presidency, was abroad representing Grenada at a World Anti-Doping Agency regional symposium when the new date became known.

That circumstance alone is not evidence that the meeting was scheduled to disadvantage anyone. It would be irresponsible to present it as such. However, elections must not only be properly conducted; the process must also give every candidate and affiliate confidence that the rules were applied fairly.

Poor communication creates suspicion, even when there may be an innocent explanation.

I have argued in earlier commentaries that our national sporting associations cannot become stronger without properly organised affiliates. Clubs cannot exist only in name or appear only when there is a competition.

A functioning club should have recognised officers, a membership structure, proper records, coaches, athletes and a development programme. It should hold meetings, account for its finances and meet the affiliation requirements of its national governing body.

Some clubs and schools may need to do better in those areas.

But responsibility travels in both directions. The national association should maintain an updated register of affiliates, communicate annual fees and deadlines, provide reasonable notice of meetings and help developing clubs meet the required standards.

Governance cannot suddenly become important during election week.

The GAA can settle much of this uncertainty before Saturday by publishing the formal notice of the meeting, the relevant constitutional provisions, the deadline for becoming financial and the basis on which each affiliate’s eligibility was determined.

It should also explain why the meeting moved from the widely understood September date to August 22 and provide an opportunity for any omitted affiliate to seek a review of its status.

If the exclusions are legitimate, the association should have no difficulty showing that the same rules were communicated and applied to everyone. If mistakes were made, there is still time to correct them.

Transparency is not a favour to any candidate or club. It protects the association, the electoral process and whoever is eventually elected.

The next GAA executive should take office with a clear mandate, not under a cloud of unanswered questions that could have been settled before the first vote was cast.

Peters confirms bid for GAA presidency ahead of Saturday’s election

2026-08-20T15:09:13.934-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, August 20, 2026 - Kerlon Peters, founder and coach of Max Potential Sports Club, has confirmed that he will contest the presidency of the Grenada Athletics Association (GAA) at its elective Annual General Meeting on Saturday.

The election is expected to produce a new president following reports that incumbent Conrad Francis will not seek another term.

Peters confirmed his candidacy while returning from Lima, Peru, where he represented Grenada at a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Regional Symposium. The meeting was held to prepare stakeholders for the changes and requirements under the 2027 World Anti-Doping Code and International Standards.

Before leaving for Peru, Peters had already begun reaching out to GAA affiliates and discussing his plans for the association.

“My initial information was that the meeting was scheduled for September, but I only learnt recently that it will be held on Saturday,” he said. “That has not changed my focus on representing the interests of the athletes.”

Peters said one of his main objectives is to increase participation in track and field, not only among athletes but also in coaching, officiating, and administration. He also wants the association to place greater emphasis on developing a strong grassroots programme.

However, he stressed that greater attention must also be given to Grenada’s elite athletes, particularly those returning home without the support needed to continue their careers.

“We have athletes returning home, and there is no structure for them,” Peters said. “Along with the grassroots programme, we also have to take care of our elite athletes.”

He said a coaching programme should be established to give returning athletes continuity and help them remain competitive. His plans would also address athletes’ welfare, benefits, and insurance coverage.

Peters believes the GAA needs a strategic plan with a business component to attract support and create more opportunities. He also wants greater attention paid to athletes’ intellectual property rights and how their names and images are used.

Up to the time of publication, the GAA had not released an official list of candidates for Saturday’s election. However, reports indicate that three members of the outgoing executive - First Vice President Johnell Mitchell, General Secretary Desiree Stephen, and Public Relations Officer Kwame Hypolite - have expressed an interest in contesting positions.

It is not yet clear which posts they will seek.

The election was constitutionally due in January, at the end of the executive’s four-year term. Affiliates agreed to postpone it to preserve administrative continuity while Grenada prepared to host the 53rd CARIFTA Games from April 4–6.

Francis was elected president in January 2022. The outgoing executive also includes Second Vice President Abrel Patrick, Assistant General Secretary Geraldine Thompson, and Treasurer Claudia Francis.

Denise Williams serves as the coaches’ representative, Jelani Franklyn as the athletes’ representative, and Devon Layne as the officials’ representative.

Saturday’s meeting will determine the leadership entrusted with guiding Grenadian athletics through its next administrative cycle.

Grenada's Ministry of Sports must sit down with the GCA

2026-08-18T12:23:40.294-04:00

Sports Commentary by Michael Bascombe

What exactly is happening with cricket in Grenada?

That question became even more pressing following Saturday’s TalkSports programme, when it was revealed that the Grenada Cricket Association (GCA) has been attempting to meet with the Ministry of Sports to discuss several outstanding matters.

If that account is accurate, it should concern everyone who cares about the development of cricket.

A recognised national sporting association should not have difficulty securing a meeting with the ministry responsible for sport. The government and the GCA will not always agree. Still, they must be able to sit around the same table and discuss funding, facilities, national team preparation, youth development, regional competitions, and the long-term direction of the game.

A meeting is not a favour. It is part of the working relationship that should exist between the Ministry of Sports and every national sporting association.

There is also the troubling report that thousands of dollars remain outstanding to stakeholders who worked alongside the Grenada Cricket Association in hosting matches, tournaments and series. The GCA itself is not reportedly owed the money. However, payment is said to be delayed because documents requiring government approval or a signature have not been completed.

We have not seen the relevant documents, and the report should not be presented as an established fact. However, it has been repeated often enough to warrant an official response.

How much money is outstanding? Which stakeholders are awaiting payment? What services did they provide? What document requires the government’s signature, when was it submitted, and who is responsible for approving it? Has Cricket West Indies communicated directly with the Government of Grenada?

The Ministry of Sports can bring clarity to the matter. If the information is inaccurate, it should be corrected. If approval remains outstanding, the reason should be explained. If there is no legal or administrative obstacle, the process should be completed without further delay.

Although the money is not owed directly to the GCA, the situation could damage its relationship with the people and businesses that helped to stage these events. Stakeholders may be reluctant to provide services, extend credit or support future competitions if they are uncertain about when they will be paid.

The GCA could also suffer reputational damage despite not being responsible for issuing the payments. Grenada cricket depends on the cooperation of many partners, and those relationships must be protected. A prolonged delay could make hosting future regional and international cricket more difficult and more expensive.

This is also about much more than one payment.

The GCA has reportedly developed a three-year plan that includes a high-performance centre alongside a grassroots cricket programme. That proposal deserves serious consideration.

One of the weaknesses in Grenada’s cricket structure is the limited amount of competitive cricket being played at the Under-15 level. The Under-19 players also need more matches, strong competitions, and a clearer pathway into senior cricket. Coaching sessions are important, but they cannot replace regular match play.

The proposed programme would also involve families and use Masters Cricket as a means of connecting experienced players with the younger generation. That makes sense. Former players have knowledge that should not be lost when they stop playing competitively. They can mentor young cricketers, help them understand the demands of the game, and reinforce the discipline required to succeed.

The proposed high-performance centre would be particularly important for Grenadian players who are not contracted by the Windward Islands Volcanoes. Without a structured programme at home, those players can easily fall into a gap between domestic cricket and the regional professional system.

Grenada has a useful pool of talent. Andre Fletcher, Johann Jeremiah, Teddy Bishop, Darron Nedd, Ryan John, Darel Cyrus, Kirt and Kirtsen Murray, Shermon Lewis, and Preston McSween are among the players who demonstrate the depth and potential that exist.

Not all of them are at the same stage of their careers, but there must be a system capable of supporting established players, emerging talent, and those pushing for another opportunity at the regional level.

A high-performance centre would require proper examination. The GCA should be prepared to present its budget, coaching structure, player-development targets, staffing requirements, and expected results. The Ministry does not have to accept every aspect of the proposal without question. But it must be willing to hear it, assess it, and determine where the government can assist.

That is what consultation is supposed to accomplish.

There is also the approaching Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. With cricket included on the programme, the GCA is understandably watching the qualification possibilities for players from smaller Caribbean countries.

The eventual pathway may involve movement through the Windward Islands structure and then the wider Cricket West Indies system. The precise arrangements will have to be confirmed by the relevant cricket and Olympic authorities. Whatever the final process, Grenada cannot wait until qualification begins to think about preparation.

If our players are to have a realistic opportunity, the groundwork must start now.

Infrastructure forms another part of the discussion. During my recent visit to Grenada, I toured several of the country’s major sporting facilities, including those used for track and field, football, and cricket. I also visited the aquatic centre now under construction.

There is visible investment, and that should be acknowledged. However, investment must eventually produce facilities that meet the required standards and can be used to attract regional and international competition.

At the National Cricket Stadium, I was advised that adjustments are still required to the recently installed lights as part of the process towards securing the necessary ICC grading and approval. That work must be followed through to completion.

Installing lights is one stage. Having a properly certified venue capable of hosting international and day-night cricket is the outcome that matters.

The development and renovation of sporting facilities must also include consultation with the people who will use them. National associations, athletes, coaches, grounds staff, event organisers, and broadcasters should be involved before important decisions are finalised.

Broadcasting requirements, for example, cannot be treated as an afterthought. Camera positions, sightlines, commentary areas, lighting levels, power supplies, internet connectivity, and space for technical equipment all affect whether an event can be properly presented to audiences at home and overseas. It is far less expensive to address those matters during planning than to correct them after construction has been completed.

The immediate way forward should be straightforward.

The Ministry of Sports should schedule a meeting with the Grenada Cricket Association. The reported funding issue should be clarified, the documents should be examined, and the GCA should be allowed to present its three-year development plan.

The GCA, for its part, must arrive prepared to provide details, budgets, timelines, and measurable targets. If Cricket West Indies needs to participate in the discussion, it should be invited to do so.

This should not become another prolonged disagreement in which letters are sent, meetings are requested, and nothing moves.

The people who suffer most from that kind of delay are not the administrators. They are the young cricketers who are not playing enough matches, the national players trying to prepare without adequate support, and the Grenadian players seeking a route into regional and international cricket.

Grenada has talent. It has facilities. There are development ideas on the table, and funding may be accessed.

What is needed now is a serious conversation, and there is no good reason why that conversation should not begin immediately.

A risky own goal: Why the GFA should not have broken ranks with CONCACAF

2026-08-14T17:19:45.607-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

When a football association as small as Grenada’s enters a dispute at the highest level of the world game, its position should be guided by one question: What best protects the long-term interests of football in Grenada?

The statement issued by the Grenada Football Association in support of FIFA President Gianni Infantino does not convincingly answer that question.

The GFA welcomed Infantino’s withdrawal of the proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative, praised his “swift action,” declared its commitment to good governance, and warned that it would not support any association or confederation seeking to undermine FIFA’s institutional processes.

It then reaffirmed its support for Infantino “for the years to come.”

That was not a neutral statement. Against the background of a FIFA presidential election in 2027, it sounded very much like an advance political endorsement. Its reference to actions by a “Member Association or Confederation” could also reasonably be interpreted as a rebuke of CONCACAF, the Asian Football Confederation, and UEFA.

The chronology matters.

On July 28, FIFA presented a plan to create a commercial subsidiary valued at US$20 billion and sell a minority interest of up to 20 per cent to outside investors, raising as much as US$4.2 billion. Member associations were told they could potentially access up to US$40 million each through expanded development funding and an optional Fast Forward programme.

The money would be extremely attractive to smaller associations. However, the size of the promised benefit made proper scrutiny even more important.

On July 29, Concacaf said it had learned about the proposal through media reports and expressed concern about the absence of consultation and due process.

The following day, CONCACAF said it convened the presidents of its 41 member associations. According to the official statement issued after that meeting, the membership rejected the proposal and instructed its representatives on the FIFA Council to address the matter through the procedures established in the FIFA Statutes.

That is an important point.

CONCACAF did not announce that it was abandoning FIFA’s institutional processes. It said it was using those processes. It instructed elected FIFA Council members to act within the FIFA system.

Infantino withdrew the proposal on July 31, after opposition spread across the football world. The withdrawal was necessary and should have been welcomed, but it was not a personal favour to Grenada or anyone else. The person who withdrew the proposal was also the person who advanced it.

Putting out a fire after the alarm has been raised does not erase the circumstances in which it started.

On August 10, the AFC, CONCACAF, and UEFA went further. Their joint open letter argued that the proposal had been pushed on a compressed timetable without meaningful consultation. They called for a fully independent review, rather than an investigation conducted by FIFA into itself.

The Caribbean Football Union, of which Grenada is a member, subsequently joined U.S. Soccer, Canada Soccer, and the Central American Football Union in calling for meaningful changes to FIFA’s governance, transparency, and accountability.

Against that background, the GFA’s warning about confederations undermining FIFA’s processes appears misdirected. The regional bodies were demanding that proper processes be respected.

The GFA may continue to reject the substance of the Forward Enterprise proposal but objects to talk of boycotts, breakaways, or the removal of Infantino. If that is its position, it should say so plainly. The present statement mixes separate issues and offers loyalty to an individual without explaining what Grenadian football gains from doing so.

The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) chose a more responsible approach.

The GFF said the proposal was circulated to its Council for review. It convened an emergency meeting, considered the concerns of its members and stakeholders, and reported that the Council unanimously agreed to support CONCACAF’s position.

Guyana did not attack FIFA. It reaffirmed its willingness to work with FIFA, CONCACAF, and other associations while defending transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity.

That is what good governance looks like: a meeting, deliberation, a recorded decision, and an explanation to the public.

The GFA statement does not say whether its Council met, whether a vote was taken, or who authorised the pledge of support for Infantino. It also leaves several questions unanswered.

Was Grenada represented at the July 30 meeting of CONCACAF’s 41 presidents? Did the GFA support the collective rejection of the proposal? If it subsequently changed its position, when was that decision taken and by whom? Does “for the years to come” amount to an endorsement of Infantino’s 2027 candidacy?

These are fair questions because CONCACAF issued its original statement in the name of all 41 member associations, including Grenada.

Grenada is entitled to disagree with CONCACAF. Every FIFA member association has its own vote, and no confederation should dictate how that vote must be cast. Independence, however, does not mean isolation. Dissent should be based on a clearly stated football or governance principle, not on an open-ended pledge to one officeholder.

Supporting CONCACAF on this matter would not require the GFA to pledge personal loyalty to CONCACAF President Victor Montagliani either. It would mean supporting the regional position on due process, collective bargaining, and an independent review.

Grenada’s immediate football home is CONCACAF. The confederation provides a competitive pathway for senior national teams, youth teams, women’s football, and clubs. The 2026-27 Nations League, in which Grenada will compete in League B, includes all 41 associations and serves as the qualifying route to the 2027 Gold Cup.

Grenada has no fully professional domestic league, while the men’s national team is ranked 163rd in the world. Those realities make regional cooperation more important, not less.

A single Grenadian vote is valuable to anyone seeking the FIFA presidency. But one vote provides little bargaining power once the election is over. Grenada has far more influence when its concerns are carried collectively by 41 regional associations and supported by other confederations.

There is no question that FIFA funding has benefited Grenadian football. FIFA’s own impact page lists approximately US$4.74 million in completed and ongoing commitments for infrastructure, competitions, national team support, and other projects.

That support should be acknowledged. It should also be properly managed, audited, and measured against sustainable results.

However, FIFA Forward money is not a personal gift from Gianni Infantino. FIFA describes the programme in terms of financial entitlements available to every eligible member association, subject to approved projects, reporting requirements and independent audits.

The money comes from football’s commercial assets. It does not come from the private pocket of the FIFA president.

That distinction is important. Once institutional funding is presented as the generosity of one man, gratitude can easily be converted into political loyalty.

International reporting has already highlighted this danger. Reuters reported that smaller associations dependent on FIFA funding could be important to Infantino’s political survival. Critics of the system argue that legitimate development funding can also create a relationship in which financial power produces political influence.

That does not prove that the GFA or any of its officials was promised a personal benefit. No such evidence is in the public domain, and it would be irresponsible to present suspicion as fact.

Nevertheless, the GFA created an unfortunate perception. It thanked one man for institutional funding, criticised unnamed confederations, and pledged its support “for the years to come.” If the statement was not intended to secure future access, favourable treatment, or goodwill from the FIFA leadership, the Association should explain what national football objective it was designed to achieve.

Travel by national teams is welcome, but travel alone is not a development strategy. Grenadian football must still confront the absence of a professional league, limited infrastructure, player-development challenges, and a men’s team sitting 163rd in the world.

Cabo Verde’s World Cup appearance, cited by the GFA, is an inspiring achievement. It should not be reduced to the benevolence of a FIFA president. It reflects the work of players, coaches, administrators, clubs, the diaspora, and years of national planning.

The wiser GFA statement would have welcomed the withdrawal, acknowledged FIFA’s development assistance, supported an independent review, and reaffirmed Grenada’s commitment to working with FIFA, CONCACAF, and the CFU.

That would have preserved Grenada’s independence without placing the Association on the wrong side of its own region.

Small associations need strong rules even more than powerful ones do. If development funding is treated as a favour that must be repaid with loyalty, it stops being an entitlement and becomes leverage.

The GFA may have gained attention in Zurich by declaring its support for Infantino. What it risked losing at home and within the region was something more valuable: its credibility.

Peters strikes gold, Murrell-Ross takes bronze for Grenada at CAC Games

2026-08-06T18:45:20.482-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic, Aug 6, 2026 - Anderson Peters delivered Grenada’s first medal of the 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games on Thursday, winning the men’s javelin throw with a mark of 83.95 metres.

Peters secured the gold ahead of Costa Rica’s Ivan Sibaja, who threw 82.15m, while Colombia’s Billy Julio claimed the bronze with 81.02m.

Keshorn Walcott of Trinidad and Tobago had moved into third place with a second-round effort of 80.92m but was later displaced by Julio and had to settle for fourth.

Peters’ winning throw fell just short of the Games record of 84.91m, set by Cuba’s Guillermo Martinez in Cartagena, Colombia, on July 25, 2006.

Kelsie Murrell-Ross later added Grenada’s second medal of the day, taking bronze in the women’s shot put with a 16.92m throw. It was the best of her four legal throws.

Rosa Ramirez gave the host nation another gold medal with a winning effort of 18.90m, while Cuba’s Dianelis Delis secured silver with 18.57m.

On the track, Nazzio John finished sixth in the men’s 200 metres final in 21.01 seconds.

Jose Figueroa of Puerto Rico won the title in 19.98 seconds, with the Dominican Republic’s Alexander Ogando taking silver in 20.47. Aaron Charles of Trinidad and Tobago collected the bronze in 20.63.

Jamaica’s Tyquendo Tracey finished fourth in 20.66, followed by compatriot Kadrian Goldson in 20.73.

Walters faces surgery but remains upbeat after Glasgow crash

2026-08-03T09:13:36.384-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

LONDON, UK, August 3, 2026 – UK-based Grenadian cyclist Red Walters will undergo surgery on the broken collarbone he sustained during the men’s 10km scratch race final at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Walters was involved in a major crash at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome on Saturday and later underwent X-rays, which confirmed the break.

He initially believed that surgery might not be necessary because the fracture was not displaced. However, after returning home and undergoing a further assessment, Walters confirmed on Monday that he would require an operation.

“Just an update, I can confirm I will need surgery,” he told GrenadaSports.

Walters said his father flew to Glasgow on Sunday morning before they travelled home together later that day. He went to the hospital today for further X-rays and diagnosis.

Despite the setback, Walters does not believe he will necessarily be out of competition for an extended period.

“Not necessarily,” he said when asked if he expected to be sidelined for some time. “Normally, the recovery time is quite quick once it is plated. If anything, it is quicker to have the surgery than if I let it heal naturally.”

Walters said he knows other cyclists who returned to training soon after undergoing similar procedures.

“I’ve had friends who were back to training indoors after one week, and racing not that much longer after that,” he said.

Although he must now undergo surgery and begin his recovery, Walters remains optimistic about returning to the bike.

Lindon Victor deserves Grenada’s highest recognition

2026-08-01T11:53:27.702-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

Lindon Victor has done enough to be recognised among Grenada’s most distinguished citizens.

His victory in the decathlon at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow completed a remarkable hat-trick, following his gold medals on the Gold Coast in 2018 and in Birmingham in 2022.

Winning the Commonwealth title once is an outstanding achievement. Winning it three consecutive times, over eight years, is historic.

Victor’s record extends far beyond the Commonwealth Games. He won bronze at the 2023 World Championships in Budapest and followed that with another bronze medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Earlier in his career, he was a two-time NCAA Division I decathlon champion at Texas A&M University.

This is a sustained record of excellence at the highest levels of international sport.

The decathlon is often described as the ultimate test of the complete athlete. Over two days, competitors contest 10 events: the 100 metres, long jump, shot put, high jump, 400 metres, 110-metre hurdles, discus, pole vault, javelin, and 1,500 metres.

It demands speed, strength, endurance, technique, discipline, and mental toughness. One poor performance can undo months of preparation.

Victor has accepted that challenge year after year and established himself among the world’s finest multi-event athletes.

It is therefore time for the relevant authorities in Grenada to give serious consideration to appointing him as a Companion of the Order of Grenada.

The honour recognises distinguished achievement and service that brings international prestige to the country. Victor has unquestionably done that.

Whenever he competes, Grenada’s flag is displayed on the world stage. Whenever he reaches the podium, the country’s name is placed before an international audience. His achievements have brought pride and positive recognition to Grenadians at home and throughout the diaspora.

The Companion of the Order of Grenada has been awarded to distinguished citizens, including Sir Daniel Williams, Baroness Rosalind Howells, Johnson Beharry, and Olympic champion Kirani James.

Victor has earned the right to be considered among them.

This is not simply a reaction to his latest gold medal. It is a recommendation based on years of sacrifice, consistency, and historic achievement.

Too often, athletes receive their greatest recognition only after retirement. Grenada should not wait.

Honouring Victor while he is still competing would send a powerful message to young athletes that sustained excellence and service through sport are valued by the nation.

There will undoubtedly be other worthy nominations, but Victor’s name should be placed firmly before those responsible for Grenada’s national honours.

He has carried the flag with pride, represented the country with dignity, and earned his place in Grenada’s history.

Lindon Victor deserves to be appointed a Companion of the Order of Grenada.

Victor second in Decathlon; Peters advances to Javelin final

2026-07-30T14:01:02.044-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

GLASGOW, Scotland, July 30, 2026 – Defending champion Lindon Victor was in second place after the opening three events of the men’s decathlon at the Commonwealth Games on Thursday.

After completing the 100 metres, long jump, and shot put, the Grenadian had accumulated 2,685 points.

Canada’s Damian Warner led the competition with 2,765 points, holding an 80-point advantage over Victor.

The decathletes will contest two more events on Thursday—the high jump and 400 metres—before completing the remaining five events on Friday.

Grenada also secured a place in the final of the men’s javelin throw through Anderson Peters.

The two-time world champion produced a qualifying throw of 81.29 metres, the second-best mark of the preliminary round. Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Pathirage led the qualifiers with 82.84m.

Peters will be joined in Friday’s final by two other Caribbean athletes. Bahamian Keshawn Strachan qualified with 78.60m, while Trinidad and Tobago’s former Olympic champion Keshorn Walcott advanced with 78.26m.

Jamaica’s Elvis Graham failed to qualify for the 12-man final after recording 65.07m.

Meanwhile, Jamara Patterson’s campaign in the women’s 400 metres ended in the semi-finals.

The Grenadian finished third in Heat 3 in 52.92 seconds but did not secure one of the two non-automatic qualifying places for the final.

Nigeria’s Ella Onojuvwevwo won the heat in 51.47, with Wales’ Charlotte Henrich finishing second in 52.13. Both advanced automatically.

Jamaica’s Dejanea Oakley recorded the fastest qualifying time of 51.18, while Barbados’ Sada Williams also progressed after clocking 51.85. They will be the Caribbean’s representatives in the women’s 400m final.

Walters makes history as Grenada’s first Commonwealth Games para-athlete

2026-07-30T11:26:44.525-04:00

by Ronald Charles, Coach

GLASGOW, Scotland, July 30, 2026 - Nickel Walters became the first Grenadian para-athlete to compete at the Commonwealth Games when he represented the country in the men’s F42–64 discus.

His appearance was an important moment for Grenada’s Paralympic movement and another sign of the progress being made in developing para sports at home.

Walters competed in difficult weather conditions but still produced a personal-best performance. The event brought together athletes from different classifications, with the final standings determined through the Raza points system.

Discus is not Walters’ main event. He would have preferred to compete in the javelin, but that event was not included on the programme. He therefore accepted the challenge of competing in the discus and made the most of the opportunity.

“I am happy and grateful for the opportunity,” Walters said after the competition. “Although I wasn’t able to compete in my best event, the javelin, I adapted to the discus and gave it my best.”

His willingness to compete outside his preferred event, while representing Grenada at this level for the first time, made the occasion even more meaningful.

Walters’ participation also marks another important step for Grenada’s Paralympic programme. The country has now been represented at most of the world’s major para-sport competitions, providing a foundation on which the national programme can continue to build.

The achievement should also help to bring greater attention to Grenada’s para-athletes and the support they need to train, compete and develop.

Walters leaves the Games with a personal best and a place in Grenada’s sporting history. Most importantly, he has opened the door for other Grenadian para-athletes to follow.

Patterson advances as Grenada experiences mixed fortunes in Glasgow

2026-07-28T10:29:10.516-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

GLASGOW, Scotland, July 28, 2026 – Jamara Patterson advanced to the semi-finals of the women’s 400 metres as Grenada experienced mixed fortunes on the track on the second day of competition at the Commonwealth Games on Tuesday.

Patterson finished third in the opening heat in 52.79 seconds to secure her place in Thursday’s semi-finals.

Charlotte Henrich of Wales won the heat in 52.13, while England’s Laviai Nielsen finished second in 52.72.

Patterson was among four Caribbean athletes who progressed from the opening round. Jamaicans Shana Kaye Anderson and Leah Anderson advanced after recording 52.71 and 52.74, respectively, while Bermuda’s Caitlyn Bobb qualified in 54.94.

However, Grenada’s Michael Francois and Joshem Sylvester were unable to advance from the opening round of the men’s 400 metres.

Francois finished third in Heat 1 in 46.62, narrowly missing a qualifying place. Nigeria’s Edidiong Udo won the heat in 45.73, with Barbados’ Desean Boyce taking second in 46.55. Both advanced to Thursday’s semi-finals.

Sylvester placed fourth in Heat 6, crossing the line in 48.17. Amal Glasgow of St Vincent and the Grenadines won the heat in 46.03, while India’s Vishal Kayalvizhi was second in 46.49.

Jamaica’s Zandrion Barnes was the fastest qualifier overall, clocking 45.13.

Barnes led a strong group of eight Caribbean athletes into the semi-finals. The other qualifiers were Trinidad and Tobago’s Jereem Richards, who recorded 45.72; Jamaica’s Delano Kennedy, 45.82; St Lucia’s Michael Joseph, 45.84; Glasgow, 46.03; Trinidad and Tobago’s Jaden Marchan, 46.17; Jamaica’s Antonio Watts, 46.36; and Boyce, 46.55.

Grenada captures track and field title at Windward Islands Secondary Schools Games

2026-07-27T10:55:21.999-04:00

by Michael Bascombe

CASTRIES, St Lucia, July 27, 2026 – Grenada captured the Track and Field Championships at the Windward Islands Secondary Schools Games, which opened here on Saturday.

The Grenadian athletes amassed 282 points to finish comfortably ahead of St Vincent and the Grenadines, which placed second with 220 points. Dominica finished third with 207 points, while host country St Lucia scored 193.

Grenada also topped the men’s and women’s team standings. The men accumulated 140 points, while the women finished with 142.

Annalisa Brown led Grenada’s impressive performance and is in line to be named the championships’ most outstanding athlete after winning five gold medals.

Brown won the women’s 400 metres, 800m and 1500m before helping Grenada to victory in the 4x100m and 4x400m relays. The highlight was her personal best time of 53.83 seconds over the 400m.

Grenada also recorded victories in football, netball, and both volleyball divisions on Sunday.

The male volleyball team defeated Dominica 3-1. After losing the opening set 18-25, Grenada recovered to win the next three sets 25-23, 25-11 and 25-17.

Grenada also overcame Dominica 3-2 in female volleyball. Dominica won the opening set 26-24, but Grenada responded by taking the next two sets 25-16 and 25-7. Dominica forced a deciding set by winning the fourth 25-21 before Grenada completed the victory 15-11.

In football, Grenada edged Dominica 2-1, with Che Charles and Kelroy Peters scoring the goals.

The Grenadian netballers also made a strong start, defeating defending champions St Vincent and the Grenadines 31-20.

Assistant team manager and one of the team coaches, Latisha Collymore, said the team remained in high spirits. With the track and field title already secured, she said the focus was now on carrying that winning momentum into the other sporting disciplines.

Teams from Dominica, Grenada, St Lucia, and St Vincent and the Grenadines are competing in basketball, football, netball, track and field, and volleyball.

Watch the opening ceremony and track and field championships