JAMAICA’S REGGAE GIRLZ TO PLAY SCOTLAND IN MAY

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s Reggae Girlz will play Scotland for the first time ever on Tuesday, May 28 at the Hampden Park in Glasgow.

Tuesday, May 28, 2019

This match will the last official international friendly prior to the start of the World Cup fixtures on June 9 against Brazil. The make-up for the squad will be 23.

The Scotland/Jamaica encounter will serve as a prelude to the Reggae Girlz camp which will be in France, May 29 to June 5; while the team is scheduled to get into Grenoble on June 5 as part of FIFA’s regulations.

Scotland is ranked 20th and the Reggae Girlz 53rd. Jamaica is drawn in Group C against Australia, Italy and Brazil; while Scotland is in Group D to play England, Argentina and Japan.

The match is scheduled for 2:35 pm (Jamaica time).

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Volunteers ready for Kingston City Marathon

Kingston, Jamaica – Over 400 volunteers will be a part of the 7th Kingston City Run and the first Kingston City Marathon this Sunday, March 17. 

The volunteers hail mainly from Colleges and Universities in the Corporate area along with a diverse group of residents from across the country. The volunteers will be placed in areas to deal with: 

  • Marshalling water stops along the routes 
  • Water Stops coverage 
  • Record Keeping (to balance the electronic scoring) 
  • Photography 
  • Medal distribution 
  • Start and Close of races
  • Post-event activity in Emancipation Park 
Mrs Prudence Simpson

​Volunteers’ Manager, Prudence Simpson is pleased with the response from the team of volunteers “I am happy that the spirit of volunteerism is alive and well and from the meetings and sessions we have had, it is obvious people are still happy to share their time and talent to a worthy cause. It is one of the many positives about this event. This is our 7th year, and we have gotten great support from our volunteers.” 

The event is endorsed by the Jamaica Tourist Board and is supported by a cadre of sponsors. The main ones are: 

  • Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association 
  • Life Span (been with us from Day one) 
  • MarksMan 
  • RJR Gleaner Group 
  • Kingston and St Andrew Corporation ​

CHARITIES

  • Alpha Boys Institute
  • Open Arms Development Centre
  • Marie Atkins Night Shelter          
  • Food for the Poor 
  • Missionaries of the Poor 
  •  

Donations are accepted at https://www.kingstoncityrun.com/v2/charities/ 


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Governance in Sport

The credibility of sporting organizations has come into question a lot in the last decade with the rise in scandals. This has caused, what some believe, a decrease in public’s trust and by extension the process of democracy.

In the meantime, sport continues to strengthen its role as a major influential institution and its process is also one which is used across corporate and a range of other organizations.

According to Hums and McLean, sport governance refers to the exercise of power with consideration given to influence, authority and the nature of decision making.

In the Caribbean we have heard cries for better governance, but we ask what this really means. Sport Australia summarizes its focus on governance to look at adopting a culture that focuses on accountability. In a lot of other jurisdictions, accountability and processes that are used to impact on policy form the general argument about what good governance should really be.

In the UK, a new code for sport was developed in April 2017 which sets out the levels of transparency, accountability and financial integrity that is required for funding from the national lottery.

While the commercialization of sport has seen incredible growth in the last decade with increased revenues and revenue streams – one of the causes of governance failures must be the slow way, especially in this region (Caribbean) that, sport, which remains a voluntary institution, still have inadequate resources to govern the modern, commercial world of sport of today.

Here’s how Adidas structure looks. One of the world’s top sporting brands

Those reasons may not hold much today, even with those facts as there are some sporting bodies that have governed well. There are four key areas that should be placed as priority to ensure each sporting body meets its mandate for accountability.

These key areas are:

  • Checks and balances – this is a system which prevents concentration of power in any one place. The concept of separation of power looks at a system which accounts for decision making being done based on roles. This process can counter any outside influences.
  • Democracy is also key – this has to do with the public good and how it stacks up against autonomy. The structure of the democratic process must reflect the accountability required. We are looking key success factors such as a legal system, compliance and even a sanctioning process. Stakeholder participation is also key to a democracy along with the way people are elected to govern
  • Perception – how people feel. A sporting body must be transparent, and its communication model must show that. All factual matters of the organization must and show find its way to the public in a timely and consistent way.
  • Diversity in offerings – sport must meet the need to be socially, environmentally and ethically aware and while meeting all the other needs of operations must find a way to meet these other needs. As sport continues to establish itself and make an impact on the wider society, there is need to refresh its goals and objectives for a comprehensive role while achieving financial success

Steps must and should be taken to hold sporting bodies accountable. Stakeholders should therefore be mindful of the people they elect to serve; while focusing on what the outcomes should be.

Governance is a process and while it is our sport leaders where the buck stops, the process starts with us, electing people who are capable, able and willing to lead and manage sport in a way we can all benefit on and off the field of play.

Volleyball is in the top five richest sport in the world – see its structure

Some progressive news on governance – The IAAF will elect its first female vice-president this year as it continues its efforts to ensure that women are represented at the highest levels of the sport. As part of the widespread reforms adopted by the IAAF Congress at the end of 2016, the IAAF has added minimum gender targets into its constitution to establish parity at all levels in the sport’s governance. This is a welcome addition to the Business of Sport.

#GetInTheGame

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WELCOME PARTY FOR USAIN BOLT TRACKS AND RECORDS

KINGSTON, Jamaica – One of Kingston’s best eateries, Usain Bolt Tracks and Records will host the Welcome Party for the 7th running of the Kingston City Run.

The world-renowned facility, which has three other locations (Ocho Rios, Montego Bay and London) will feature as a targeted sponsor for the event which will host the first marathon in Kingston.

The “run” will be held under the theme Run Di City, Feel Di Vibe and a collaboration with Tracks and Records “Real Jamaican Vibes” is a match made for Kingston and “it promises to be a thriller to get the weekend’s event started,” says Angiel Shaw, head of marketing, Tracks and Records.

The welcome party is scheduled for Friday, March 15 and will feature one of Jamaica’s top entertainment DJ groups, Coppershot Disco. The 25-year-old group has been featured in several shows in Jamaica, Caribbean and in the USA.

The group is known for their style which consists of distinguished remixes, entertaining dubs, unique mixing, scratching and original jams of roots reggae, pop, soca, dancehall, hip hop, reggaeton and R&B.

The welcome party will be for registered participants in the Kingston City Run who will enjoy specials from the delectable menu.

The party will run from 7 – 9 pm.

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TIPS FOR PARTICIPANTS IN KINGSTON’S FIRST MARATHON

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Participants for the Kingston City Marathon, scheduled for Sunday, March 17 will have access to energy gel, cool sponges and towels, mist and music along the routes.

Race Director, Alan Beckford and his team are ensuring that the first (official) marathon to be run in Kingston has “entertainment along the route which will help to inspire the participants,” he noted.

Beckford, who admits to the tough task ahead is optimistic that “with runners taking the scenic route via places like Devon House, Bob Marley Museum, Kings House and Hope Gardens, I believe the run will be satisfying for all those who compete.”

The planning team is hoping to surpass 5,000 participants which would highlight an increase from last year’s figure (4,876). The team continues on its quests to target teams from corporate Jamaica, overseas participants and individuals from running clubs.

Beckford has some advice for first time participants, especially for the marathon

  • Pace yourself on the first lap
  • Drink at every water stop
  • Take energy gels you are accustomed to
  • Wear a cap, cool clothes and comfortable shoes
  • Wear Sun-block
  • Apply Vaseline under arms, feet and crotch
  • Take a water bottle if you can and
  • Get a partner to run with

The marathon route has been certified by the IAAF/AIMS.

The race director is happy so far with the preparations and he is hoping that the race will surpass last year’s target.

CHARITIES

Proceeds from the event will be donated to four main charities.

  • Open Arms Development Centre
  • Marie Atkins Night Shelter
  • Food for the Poor
  • Missionaries of the Poor

Donations are accepted at https://www.kingstoncityrun.com/v2/charities/ 

–ENDS- nt version alte

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POPULAR SPANISH TV HOST TO RUN IN KINGSTON CITY MARATHON

KINGSTON, Jamaica – Raul Gomez, host of the popular, MARATON MAN travel show in Spain will be participating in the Kingston City Marathon on Sunday, March 17.

The host, Gomez, travels around the world to compete in marathons and will make Jamaica his next stop. Gomez will be accompanied by a production crew of three.

The show has up to 3.7 million subscribers with a wide range of followers on social media.

Gomez, in an interview with the Kingston City Marathon, says “we will be in Jamaica two weeks before the marathon and will visit with athletes, philanthropists, in an attempt to dig deep into Jamaica’s culture and lifestyle.”

Co-Chair of the KCM, Nicola Madden-Greig, says “We are delighted that Raul has chosen Jamaica and the Kingston City Marathon is particular to be included in this wonderful travel and sports show”. Jamaica is known mainly for having great sprinters and as we focus on the longer distances, we are happy that our event will be able to showcase the other side of Jamaican athleticism, history and culture.

REGISTRATON

The target for the event is over 5,000 and “so far registration has been encouraging,” says Madden-Greig.

The marathon, the newly added event to the Kingston City Run, will also include a 5K, 10K and a half marathon.

CHARITIES

Proceeds from the event will be donated to four main charities.

  • Open Arms Development Centre
  • Marie Atkins Night Shelter
  • Food for the Poor
  • Missionaries of the Poor

Donations are accepted at https://www.kingstoncityrun.com/v2/charities/  

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Everybody needs friends

When one has a good friend life can become so much easier. Friendship can be defined as having mutual respect and trust. I know it can be complicated, but we will look at the types of friends you may have throughout your life and how you manage them.

I was challenged by my friend Kim to do this, so I am giving this my best shot. I guess I can also tell you a little about the friendship Kim and I have. We have other mutual friends. Started on Facebook and then we eventually met. Only to find out our paths crossed while we were both on the job a while back. That said, we share a few things in common, sport, drinks, photography and music. She is quite the adventurer, one of the types of friends I will describe for you later.

Everybody needs friends. EVERYBODY. So, no matter how much a loner you think you are (like I can be); you need a friend. That is the basis on which this piece is being written.

Friendship suggests LOYALTY – so the loyal friend is called today the “ride or die” – this is someone who you probably know from prep/primary school and knows everything about you and can be called upon at any time of day/night for anything. This friend is like family. This friendship is significant and is a priority.

Then there is the brutally honest friend, one who matter what, tells you the truth about life, love, work, children, food, clothes you name it, they tell it as they see it. This could also be a loyal friend, who is also brutally honest. Be happy if you have two wrapped in one. This is the friend that you ask an opinion if you are considering entering a singing contest, going on a date, buying a new car or taking a new job.

There is that friend who is like a “big brother/sister” – the one who offers the “best advice”. Now this has nothing to do with loyalty per se, it is called mentorship. This person would be an older, wiser friend who has tried, failed a few times and is now successful. They know the lay of the land and will guide you accordingly. I have one of those.

You need a friend who is outside of your culture. One who can be a touring partner when you are heading the other side of the world. Like attending games, concerts and to understand how others exist outside of your little space. Yes, I said little. The experience with someone your equal from another culture can only enhance what you already know. You meet these folks at a conference, for example, and you stay in touch.  Tip here: Travel to conferences and workshops outside of your region.

Aristotle is believed to have said that there are three types of friends you need.

  1. Utility
  2. Pleasure
  3. Good

I will leave you to figure this out.

Back to the other types of friends I am describing for you. Work Friend? Hmmmm – this one is tricky and must be well thought out. It has a lot to do with which department, who reports to who; workplace friendships can be hard; but it is worth a shot.

The adventurous friend comes in a few different stages of life. Well, from my experience, this is the friend you can call at 1am and go for a drink; take a long drive out to talk or book a ticket to go watch a concert in Los Angeles, Colombia or Brazil. This is the friend who takes vacation for carnival and CHAMPS every year, no matter what. This is also the friend who will go bungy jumping, walk across the Sydney bridge and go skiing on the Alps; or maybe even test-drive at GTR Nissan at the race way in Connecticut. I know you get my drift.

We are coming down to the wire. I will group the rest of categories. There is the neighbor who is and can be a friend. There is a friend who is ALWAYS late – you love them still, but you know the drill. Then, last, but not least, the one who is always drunk *eyes open wide* – yes, we all have those. No further comment needed.

Friends, all of us have them. Friends, all of us need them. Manage your life in the best way possible with a friend of your choice. If you have any three of the above, I mentioned, in one person or in three different persons, you are off to a great start.

My two tips to close

  • Be a friend to someone today
  • Call a friend who you have not spoken to in a while

#OneLove

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Jamaica 2019: Sport Outlook

KINGSTON, Jamaica – 2018 was that year in sport that you went, WOW!

Well there was the Men’s FIFA World Cup where France took the coveted title. Kylian Mbappe, now the world’s most expensive player, was the clear star of the event. He literally took the world by storm.

Kylian Mbappe – I own no rights to this picture

Well, there was also a host of sexual abuse scandals. Gymnastics, Football, Hockey, Golf and the WWE were the sporting disciplines affected.

E-sport and gambling were two areas of sport business that jumped out as major areas of commercial activities. See how these will turn sport over in another three years or so.

International cricket was played in Pakistan and teams have slowly begun to return there; while in the West Indies, the region hosted a successful ICC Women’s World Championship.

The World comes to the West Indies – November 2018

JAMAICA

In 2019, for the first time in 16+ years, Usain Bolt, Veronica Campbell, Kerron Stewart and host of other track and field stars won’t be on the track. The IAAF World Championships in Qatar will see a mix of stars on the track and certainly in the field. The jumpers (long and triple) have so far signaled it will be a series of hotly contested rivalries.  

The #ReggaeGirlz are in the Women’s World Cup for Football and Jamaica will reunite with France for another (football) historical occasion. June 9, 14 and 18 are the dates to look out for.

The Netball World Cup in Liverpool is another event where Jamaica’s mettle will be tested.

FOCUS

What then should Jamaica focus on for 2019 and beyond as sporting events that will bring some well-needed attention to the island as a sporting destination.

  • Improve the support for the Kingston City Marathon and the Reggae Marathon
  • Review the sporting facilities and upgrade and refurbish where necessary to host events that brings the best ROI
  • Use the TEF resources to improve towns that have these venues
  • Ministry of Sport should invest in training and capacity building for ALL sporting federations – technical, human resources, financial and marketing
  • Employ a Sport Planner
  • Clean up all the “walls of fame” and act quickly on the sport museum (I know this is in progress)
  • Continue with the training of athletes making them more aware of their rights on and off the field
  • Bring back Jamaica Sport to plan events geared simply at making money

I am still of the view that Sport can bring us a considerable amount of earnings if we can have the will to make hard decisions about the industry. The benefits will be great. Events are managed by people. When events make money, people earn. It is a cycle. #GetInTheGame

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Music – soul-stirring

Sunday Morning Thoughts – I would have written about my love for music a few months ago; ICYMI you can take a look here https://carolebeckford.wordpress.com/2018/11/18/music-is-the-path-to-ones-soul/

Well, I am back again.

Great place to sit back, relax and enjoy

Music evokes emotions that you never knew you had.

I will go with the positives – happiness, joy, peace, love, adoration and inspiration, to name a few. I would be willing to share some artistes that I think can assist with you with drawing closer attention to that side of you which makes you mellow. Mellow, here, can be defined as a state of soothing that makes you calm and reflective, but with enough joy to make you want to take on the next BIG thing.

I use music to start and end my day. I know by now what gets me going, keeps me in the mood and what will help me relax for a great night’s sleep. I have choices!

Here’s where I am gonna show my biases.

To start the day:

Mondays – gotta choose songs that will motivate you towards a big picture – a way to kickstart the regular work week. I look for up-tempo but groovy tunes. I won’t eb specific with the songs, but I will tell you some of the artistes – Bill Withers, Stephanie Mills, John Coltrane, Bob Marley.

This picture is not mine.

Tuesdays – by the time we get here, we are well in the work week and Friday is approaching so you feel you want to let go – add some soca to the mix, and yes, I am a Bunji Garlin fan (Antigua helped me appreciate soca); you drop in some Chronixx, Kabaka Pyramid, Aretha, Michael Jackson and Bob Marley.

Wednesdays – Hump Day Blues – my line of work says I would have already done 40 hours by this day, so I can cruise. No…not so fast, there is a fire to out! And when you get that call, you said “not today” – so you draw for Peter Tosh, Steel Pulse, Angie Stone. You might think, how is that mix even possible? It is a habit I have developed to study the vibe of each singer, and I find I just select the songs each of these days. By the way, Google knows this too and makes recommendations song by song. Someone is always watching.

As we inch closer to Friday – it gets closer to party music, more soca and dance music including dancehall, Beenie Man, Konshens, Kes and a little Usher, Joe and I could go on!

Kes – One of the hottest men in the Caribbean

Weekends now is the refection time – and there is a whole host of folks to choose from, too many to mention. Grover, Donny, Anita, Freddie, James and Bob. You can find a “Bob Marley” tune for any occasion and for any emotion.

Music thrills the soul. Music lines the heart for love. Music drives the emotions of fear away to a place where you can find balance and remain focused on what is to be. Use music as a soul-stirrer. So, while you are trying to figure it out – Life has A Way, to take you Back to Love and you will determine the Point of it All.  #OneLove

PS – One day I will write about my love affair with Marvin Gaye’s music.

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KINGSTON CITY MARATHON IS LESS THAN SIX WEEKS AWAY

KINGSTON, Jamaica – When you think of the city of Kingston, Jamaica, a marathon is not the first thing that comes to mind. Well in 2019, the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA) Kingston’s chapter and its partners will host its first-ever marathon on Sunday, March 17.

What is even more interesting, is, the IAAF/AIMS has certified the route. That is historical in every context. The 480 square kilometres city is home to sporting and cultural history that surpasses any city its size. And the marathon will add flavour to this already exciting “UNESCO Creative City.”

The marathon will take you through the curves and turns of Kingston (twice) and although it may not be an ideal run for marathoners globally, it paints a new picture of the city.

After six years of hosting a 5K and 10K and Half Marathon, “adding the full marathon” was a dream come true for Nicola Madden Greig, co-chair of the KCM team.

THE VALUE TO KINGSTON  

The Kingston City Marathon will become popular like all other top marathons in cities across the globe. What will this mean for Kingston?

Well the Ministry of Health, in the last few years, started the Jamaica Moves campaign and that makes ‘health and fitness’ a worthy practice for the people of Jamaica. That is all part of an initiative to encourage people to get involved in physical activities.

The Kingston City Marathon will help to drive the ongoing development of Kingston, it is all about building reputation and popularity; while helping to use sport, in this case, a marathon event, as one key element to the city’s soft power.

Director of Tourism, Donovan White, at the press launch last month (January 16) said, “Jamaica now hosts two marathons almost four months apart, this is a clear opportunity.” The Director also pointed out “with the already established products of Kingston – great music, food and other exciting sporting events, the city will be enhanced by the Kingston City Marathon. He added that “marathons are a huge draw for sport tourists and have the potential to generate millions of dollars for the host city of Kingston.”

Kingston remains a relatively small city; however, the partnership with the local authorities, businesses and people, is an important one, aimed at overall growth, while enhancing the city’s status.

The Kingston City Marathon is the 2nd official marathon being hosted in Jamaica. The other being the Reggae Marathon in Negril in December.

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