James Adderley’s weekly sports update

Jul 26, 2010, Good Evening I’m James Adderley this is Sports Monday.

The Belize Bank Super League kicked off the 2010 playoffs with two massive match-ups over the weekend. We take you out to the M.C.C Grounds, where yesterday a surging City Boys United jumped off against a Hattieville F.C. Team that has become a serious contender for this year’s Super League title. The first real threat at goal comes from the visitors from Hattieville when Jarret Davis triggers this spot kick that provides some problems for the veteran keeper Charlie Slusher. We’re only some fourteen minutes in when Diemmercy Pierre red necks this loose ball past the Hattieville keeper Troy Reyes, to give the City Boys a 1-0 lead. Hattieville looks for the equalizer as Roy Smith sends this ball deep to Leon Jones; but Charlie Slusher successfully intervenes.

Its City boys looking for more- Tyrone Muschamp leads to Dalton Cayetano, who is victimized by an unhelpful first touch and at the half the 1-0 lead remains the story.

Immediately, when the action resumes, Raymond Gentle leaves this ball for Tyrone Muschamp, who forces the goalkeeper William Johnson, fresh off the bench, to come up with an incredible save. At the other end, Jarret Davis mounts this individual effort that’s sees him take on all comers only to finish with a shot that missed the target. Pierre then deals to Dale Cayetano, who should have done better with this look at goal from pointblank range. Hattieville comes back with this pass from Roy Smith to Leon Jones, whose acrobatic offering forces Charlie Slusher into a big time diving save to preserve the 1-0 lead. In this press by City Boys, William Johnson must be credited for this timely intervention against Dalton Cayetano, who showed the keeper too much of the ball.

Indeed Hattieville FC dodges another bullet, when Jason Young sets table for Tyrone Muschamp, who squanders a golden opportunity. We must say that this header off the corner kick from Hattieville launched by Jason Robinson can only be deemed disappointing. So City Boys look to close out the show as Raymond Gentle hooks up with Dalton Cayetano, who is obviously taken down form behind by Allan Brooks as the slo-mo reveals but the referee does not make the call. City Boys United, nevertheless, hold on to the 1-0 W against Hattieville FC.

In the other match-up at the Ricalde Stadium Saturday night, Nizhee Corozal shocked Placencia Assassin 2-1. In the meantime the double round-robin playoff format moves into Week Two with Hattieville FC hosting Placencia Assassin inside the MCC grounds this Sunday at four p.m., while Nizhee Corozal plays host to City Boys United same time.

In other football news, Millennium pounded Placencia Pearls 7-1 on Saturday to advance to the Female Football Championships round against Gentle Touch o Esperanza waiting in the wing. This home and away series in the title now gets off this Saturday four p.m. inside the MCC grounds.

Now, let’s head to the Civic Center for Friday night, as the Ballers 4 Life Tournament blasted off, with Belize Bank Bulldogs taking aim at the UB Black Jaguars. And it’s Winston Pratt off to the quick start for UB as he streaks down court to give his team three points the old fashion way. Captain Stephen Williams of UB then shoots over Roscoe Reese to sink the three point shot. So Roscoe Reese makes up for it with this nice delay to go glass for two points for the bank. However, Winston Pratt stays hot and drills this long J- Pratt would lead all scores tonight with twenty-three points going for fifty-six percent from the field and at the end of the first quarter- UB has a ten point lead. In the second quarter Belize Bank is down 27-7, when they come roaring back. Marcel Orosco wants three, he gets three, he would finish with nine. Big Paul Swasey then deals to Rupert Young, who gets a screen from National Team Player, Darwin Leslie, to land this big three point shot- he would finish with sixteen points. At the half UB’s lead is 34-32.

For UB Jaguars, Darwin Leslie comes alive in the third, with attention from four UB players, he lands this baby home. Leslie then attacks from the left side gets the bucket, picks up the foul and sinks the freebie for the three point conversion. He would total a team high twenty points after shooting forty-seven percent from the field. It’s Belize Bank with a 54-51 lead at the end of three. Folks, at the end of fourth quarter, the wheels come off the Belize Bank. Stephen Williams – from the corner with the big three for UB and would put up nineteen points. From the left side now, Williams wants three and gets three; and here he is hitting a third three in a row-nobody puts a hand in his face- UB Jaguars go on to post the 86-69 big W.

In the other senior game in these playoffs over the weekend, the Belmopan Bandits jolted San Pedro Tigersharks 78-72. On the junior ticket, OW Running Rebels ran over Trucks 82-41 and Belize Bank Jr. shut down Hold-On Smart 63-56. Hopefully, there will be better officiating inside the basketball leagues at this point in time.

Hey folks, that’s our show for today. We invite you back same time, same place next week. Jah! Over all, I’m James Adderley.

http://edition.channel5belize.com/?p=36072

James Adderley with the latest in sporting news

Aug 9, 2010, Good evening I’m James Adderley and here’s a fresh delivery of Sports Monday. Week three of the Belize Bank Super League left no doubt that things have surly tightened up inside the four team playoffs. So we take you to the Michael Ashcroft Stadium where Saturday night Placencia Assassin, who are yet to pick up a playoff win, played host to a City Boys United ball club that have proven themselves to be real contenders for the 2010 title. Immediately the home team goes for the early goal when Shawn Thurton allows Arnold Torres to fire this right foot that travels outside the far post. It’s another close shave for Charlie Slusher when Lyndon Brooks gets off this left foot shot that just misses the target. Today Charlie Slusher really has to work and he does just that to deny Rollin Burgess this attempt at goal. City Boys finally gets some offense going when Raymond Gentle centers this free kick into the danger zone but tough Placencia defense squashes this half chance. Dalton Cayetano then gets this look at goal but doesn’t get enough of the ball to get it past goalkeeper Stephen Lopez. In the meantime, we must say that Jack Dawson should have done better with this golden opportunity that he certainly squanders. At the other end goleador Ashley Torres didn’t quite live up to expectations with this left foot offering. At the half, we have a scoreless ballgame and maybe we’ll just blame it on the rain, which left the pitch a soggy mess.

Coming out of intermission, Ashley Torres sets table for Arnold Torres whose push rises over the crossbar. A few minutes later, Mervin Leslie provides Arnold Torres with a shot at redemption but the header inches outside the far upright. For certain this grass head burner launched by Jason Young off the set piece looks good but Stephen Lopez handles the situation. It’s getting late so Placencia Assassin goes to Marvin Leslie for the goal. His launch is not good enough to beat the veteran Charlie Slusher; at the long whistle, we have a scoreless stalemate.

In the other Super League matchup at the M.C.C. Grounds yesterday, Hattieville F.C. and Nizhee Corozal battled to a 1-1 stalemate. Thus at the halfway mark of the double round robin playoffs both Nizhee Corozal and City Boys United show five points apiece, Hattieville has four and Placencia Assassin has one. Week four comes up this Sunday as City Boys United host Placencia Assassin in a must win situation for both clubs while up north at the Ricalde Stadium the battle will rage between Hattieville F.C. and Nizhee Corozal.

In other football news, the Soca Warriors of Trinidad and Tobago, a legitimate CONCACAF team that has been to the World Cup, comes to Belize for a matchup against the national football team inside the FFB Stadium at Belmopan on the eight of September. Keep that date in mind.

Meanwhile, female football play, game two of the two game championship series for the 2010 title between Millennium and Gentle Touch is set for this Saturday, three-thirty p.m. at the M.C.C. Grounds. Gentle Touch goes in with a one game lead after beating Millennium 2-1 at Esperanza.

Turning to the basketball scene, we head to the City Center where the Interoffice Basketball League staged its All Star Game on Friday night. Jamal Kelly deals to Shamir Martinez who gets division B rolling with the first bucket of the ballgame and would finish with eight points. Ashton Edwards then lands this three pointer as the B team looks good in the early going. Big man Eugene Jex goes glass with the put back for two of his seven points. However, Joshua Jones heats up Team A, sinking this three pointer. And at the end of the first quarter the A Team has a 14-12 lead. In the second quarter, Jamir Enriquez takes on the entire A Team to land this bucket for two of his eight points. At the other end, the baseline jumper drops for Joshua Jones. He would lead all scorers tonight with fifteen points. Jamal Kelly really works his magic for these two points to give the B Team a three point lead. However, this three point delivery from Leroy Forbes returns the lead to the A Team. At the half they’re up 29-25.

In the third quarter, B Team is down by seven when Trevor Bonzo Meighan hits this three pointer. At the other end Norman Humes spots up for three and gets it. Humes would put up ten points tonight and at the end of the third, the lead is 49-41 for the A Team. Still, the B Team comes back to take the lead in the fourth quarter when Shamir turns and sinks this mid range jumper. Make it a four point lead when Ashton Edwards beats everybody down court for this uncontested layup. But here comes the A Team; Kennard Clarke begins the comeback with this jumper. Joshua Jones from the corner lands this big three point shot and then Norman Humes lands the dagger with this three points from the same spot. Team A goes on to post the 59-55 big W and we say congrats. We also say kudos to Keemar King of Customs who won the skills challenge and Jamaal Kelly of B.T.L. who took the three point shooting competitions.

Hey folks, that’s our show for today. Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

http://edition.channel5belize.com/archives/36710

James Adderley has the latest in sporting news

23 August, Good evening I'm James Adderley and we welcome you to this week’s rush of Sports Monday.

We’re off to the MCC Grounds where week five of the Belize Bank Super League playoffs brought City Boys United to its moment of truth. In their role as host today they would have to beat the always dangerous Nizhee Corozal or see their championship hopes vanish into thin air, especially after last week’s 2-1 loss to Placencia Assassin. Of course Nizhee Corozal also comes in understanding that today’s ballgame is super important so they go to their number one striker Michael Whittaker whose shot at goal crashes against the crossbar. In reply City Boys try to capitalize off this centre from Jason Young but Benito Morreira gives up his body for Nizhee Corozal to prevent Whitfield Patnett from getting ahead on it. For sure folks, Benito Morreira works real hard for the money today as he again goes down after being challenged by Jason Young. Mercifully, he would continue. Andrew Allen then gets this chance to give Corozal the lead but the left foot grounder travels outside the far upright. At the half, the ballgame remains scoreless.

So we go to second half and it’s Nizhee searching for the goal off this set piece but the shot by Antonio Castillo rises over the crossbar. We’re thirteen minutes into the half when Whitfield Patnett centers off the right wing, Tyronne Mushcamp keeps it alive to Dalton Cayetano who gives City Boys a 1-zip lead. Immediately Corozal begins to push for the equalizer. Michael Whittaker pushes this across the goal mouth to Sergio Villanueva whose right away blast bounces off the far upright. It’s more Corozal when Whittaker gets off this chip shot with the right foot only to see Charlie Slusher deny him the goal. Sergio Villanueva then attacks off the right wing but the right foot bouncer inches outside the sticks. The onslaught ain’t over yet people as Antonio Castillo finds Andrew Allen who misses the target from point-blank range. When the long whistle blows it brings relief to the beleaguered City Boys more importantly it gives them a huge three points that gets them back on top.

Dalton Cayetano, Goal Scorer
“I just read the play, follow up and put it in the net.”

James Adderley
“Are you a left foot or a right foot hitter?”

Dalton Cayetano
“Right foot but if ih come pan di left I have to put it in pan di left.”

James Adderley
“So you think you’ll be able to deliver if you get to the championship? You think you’ll be able to fly at that level?”

Dalton Cayetano
“Yes sir.”

James Adderley
“Okay Dalton, thank you for speaking to us. You has any words fi yoh fans?”

Dalton Cayetano
“I just want tell di fans happy fi it and we wah do it dis year; take City Boys to the championship.”

John Pollard
“This second half here we came out because we know we have to win. Our back was against the wall. It was either do or die for us and we surely didn’t want to die so we had to go on and get a win today.”

In the other Super League match up Placencia Assassin doubled Hattieville 2-1 Saturday night to now total seven points. Thus the standings look like this: City Boys United show eight points and so does Nizhee Corozal, Placencia Assassin has seven and Hattieville with four is now out of the championship picture. This weekend the semi0final round concludes with City Boys hosting Hattieville on Sunday at the M.C.C. grounds while on Saturday night Placencia Assassin and Nizhee Corozal will battle for a spot in the finals.

In cycling news, Saturday’s forty-two mile race presented by the BCA on the Burrell Boom circuit was taken by Peter Choto of Zamir in uncontested fashion in a time of 01:51:24. Zamir swept all top four station prizes with Gregory Lovell second, Allen Castillo third and Armidez Rives fourth while Kelvin Tillett of C-Ray rounds out the top five.

Turning to the basketball scene, it was do or die Friday night inside the City Center for Atlantic Bank as they faced FirstCaribbean Bank in game two of their Inter Department Basketball semi-final series. We are in the second quarter as Jacobs Leslie of FirstCaribbean misses this shot but Shamir Martinez taps it back for the successful put back cutting what was a twelve point deficit in the first quarter to four. However, at the other end, Darwin Elijio extends the separation with this three pointer from the top. Elijio would hit eight points tonight. Hector Locke then gets this pass from Captain Jermain Tillett to land two of his thirteen game points. In the meantime, this crossover dribble by Ian Ferrera leaves Jerome Ellis helpless on the court as he streaks in for the two points and it doesn’t matter that both players are called “Perry”. Darwin “Doggy” Elijio comes up with a big time bucket in traffic right here and at the half Atlantic Bank is leading 36-27.

In the third, FirstCaribbean/Quan strikes back. Perry Ellis dished to Jaheed Smith and he sinks the bucket for two of his nine points. Clifton Gentle then finds Eldon Anderson who goes glass for two points and would make it three the old fashion way. But the charge began to fizzle when Ferrera finds Hector Locke and he delivers the mid range jumper. Erwin Orosco hooks up with Perry Ferrera who works the baseline for two of his game high eighteen points. At the end of three the Atlantic Bank lead is eleven. They would go on to post the 62-47 victory to force a decisive game three on Sunday.

Well the news is in Atlantic Bank is into the championship series after burning FirstCaribbean/Quan 69-68 in overtime play yesterday. Of course, waiting in the wings was the run and slash Tuff e Nuff who proved that Belize Telemedia was not tough enough to take them out by completing the sweep Friday night. Tyronne Edwards was on top of his game tonight as he sinks this jumper for two of his game high twenty-four points and also dished out five assists. His brother, Ashton Edwards also came out sizzling, striking for three points here. He would put up twenty-two points in this one to go along with six boards and four steals. Tuff e Nuff shows a 16-11 lead at the end of the first. Marvin Bay Castillo had a good game for Telemedia as he drives into the paint to lay up two of his eight points. Lupito Acosta keeps his team in the race with this big time three pointer, Acosta would lead Telemedia with twelve points. Three point king Jamal Kelly then launches for three. He would finish with eleven points. And at the half BTL is only down 14-5.

And yes, folks in the third this conversion by Marvin Bay Castillo gives the phone company its first lead of the night 34-33. Tuff e Nuff comes right back by reinstating the Edwards to Edwards connection as Tyronne finds Ashton who lands three. Tyronne then wants three and he gets three. For a moment back there it looked like Lupito Acosta would have put BTL on his back as he leads the big three. And on the very next play lands his third three from the other side to give BTL a 44-43 lead. As expected Tuff e Nuff replies. Tyronne Edwards goes through the BTL defense for the two and ties the ballgame at 45-apiece. Tyrone Edwards then penetrates again and again rings up two points. It’s more Tyronne in the fourth when he wheels and deals through traffic for this impressive banker. And let’s not forget this dagger from Ashton Edwards. Tuff e Nuff goes on to post the 64-53 big W, completing the sweep on their way to the three game championship series. This series between Tuff e Nuff and Atlantic Bank now gets off this Wednesday with game two set for Friday. On Friday’s undercard will be the battle for third place between FirstCaribbean/Quan and Telemedia Digicell.

Hey folks, that our show for today. We invite you back same time, same place, next week. Jah over all, I'm James Adderley.

http://edition.channel5belize.com/archives/37311

Good Evening. I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The three game championship series for the Belize Bank Super League 2010 Football Title between Nizhee Corozal and City Boys United. Yesterday, the Ricalde Stadium with 35000.06 hanging in the balance. We must add that we were impressed with the opening ceremonies Nizhee Management.

However, 1^st half proved to be an extended feeling and process until the 35^th minute when brief Yam sets table perfect for Darnell Mossiah with a long distance pass and the striker easily beats Mark Grant and goalkeeper, Charlie Slusher to give the home team a 1-zip lead out the 35^th minute of play.

They tried to double the lead when Christian Rena launches this corner hide into the goal mouth forcing Charlie Slusher to go airborne for the save. The one nil lead holds up to the intermission.

Unfortunately the momentum remained the same as in the 1^st moments of the second half Michael Whittaker gets past Shawn Thurton to squander this open look at goal. Folks City Boys finally displayed some potency on offence when Tyrone Muschamp mounts this individual effort which concludes with a right foot offering that veers outside the target. A few minutes later Whittaker gets another chance to score after again zipping past Thurton and again he fails to move the scoreboard. Michael Whittaker gets another opportunity when Eduardo Perez finds him with this push off the set piece but the striker can’t get it past Charlie Slusher. At the other end, Jason Young turns away from Randy Casanova to try this shot at goal but fails to get it between the stick. Now watch Darnell Mossiah beat 3 City Boys’ defenders only to be foiled at the very last minute by a desperate lunge from Godson Michel. Nevertheless, the zip-1 score holds up to give Nizhee Corozal a 1 game lead in this best of three series.

Game II now comes up this Saturday at the M.C.C. Grounds where City Boys must benefit from home cooking or settle for 2^nd place.

Changing gears folks, we now head to the Barracks here in Belize City where the 11^th Lion-man Triathlon which has become a fixture on the National Celebrations Calendar was staged. Some 23 athletes, representing 12 teams along with 11 individual participants are in the Caribbean Sea Sunday Morning to start off the 1^st leg of this triathlon event that features swimming, running and cycling in that order and the waters churn as the race gets off.

First to complete the 1500 meters swim is Dr. Ramon Figueroa who has participated in the individual category for the eleven years since its inception and now he heads to his bicycle for the 25 mile ride. Some 8 minutes later Giovanni Choto emerges out of the sea to set chase on Dr. Figueroa using the bicycle which would be natural weapon of choice since he finished 3^rd in the tour of Guatemala which concluded last Sunday.

Another athlete you’d want to keep track of is Jay Essam of the British Forces who has even more tome to catch up on in the individual category.

Last to complete the swim is the sole female in the individual class fortunately her challenge comes mostly from the course which did not attract any competition in 2010, which says a lot.

As expected Giovanni Choto has pedalled to the lead and is off on foot for the final stage which features a 10k run or 6.2 miles. Right on his heels is 50 year old Dr. Figueroa who now thinks he has a chance to finally emerge as Lionman champ. Meanwhile, Jose Choto is the 3^rd competitor in his individual class to complete the ride and figures he has a grip on 3^rd place. In the meantime, meet the Jr. Champion who took his 2^nd overall win on Sunday, Anthony Leslie. Meanwhile as for the corporate relay goes meet the winners Louis Haulze, Denise Diaz and Alexander Graniel – they competed as Team Spectrum Design and we say Congratulations!!

Finishing 2^nd in this category is the Team Coast Guard consisting of Marco, Castellano, Tablada, Requena and Joel Borland who were victimized by a 20 second penalty. Folks, we will have the 2010 Lionman Triathlon in its totalling in a 1 hr package we hope to air on Thursday or Friday so stay tuned.

Of course Jose Choto must be mindful of Jay Essam who has thrown the gauntlet. We now fast forward to the finish of the event and we say congratulations to Giovanni Choto who wins the Lionman Triathlon in 2010 with a total time of 2:36:08. Hats off to Dr. Ramon Figueroa who was forced to settle for 2^nd place after a truly impressive display for a man of 50 – he was only 1 mile 3 seconds off the pace.

And here’s the shocker, Jay Essam overcome the Jose Choto lead to grab 3^rd place and we say congrats to the British. In other football news the Caribbean Motor Cup blasted off with another edition as presented by the BPFL over the weekend. At Dangriga, Griga United blanked Belmopan Blaze 3-zip with Alexander Peters opening the scoreboard at the 22^nd minute and then Dennis Serano made it 2 nil with this goal at the 31^st minute. Peters then came back at the 71^st minute to score his 2^nd of the match as Griga United picks up the big W in opening day. Further south at the Toledo Union field, the Toledo Ambassadors were held at a 1-1 tie by Hankook Verdes. Here in Belize City, FC Belize sunk the San Pedro Sea Dogs in a 3-1 finish while out at the Norman Broaster Stadium defending champion to Belize Defence Force doubled San Felipe Barcelona 4-2.

This Saturday, September 11^th, Belmopan Blaze will host Toledo Ambassadors at 7:30pm and Hankook Verdes takes on FC Belize inside Marshalleck Stadium at 8pm. On Sunday, San Pedro Sea Dogs get a visit from the B.D.F. for 2:30pm sharp while at the People’s Stadium San Felipe will host Griga United.

In football news from the FFB, we remind you that the Soca Warriors of Trinidad and Tobago will take on the National Team at the F.F.B. field this Friday September 10^th at 4 pm. In the meantime, Belize has drawn El Salvador in the VWCAT V-20 tournament to be staged at Honduras from the 1^st to the 5^th December 2010.

And in the Central American Cup which hits off on 14^th January 2011 at Panama, Belize is groups with the host country Panama, El Salvador and Nicaragua while Group B features Costa Rica, Honduras and Guatemala. Belize will open against Panama the defending champion.

Jah Overall I’m James Adderley

Channel 5

James Adderley with the Post TD Matthew Sports Update

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The menace of Tropical Storm Matthew gripped the country of Belize over the weekend to the extent that most events, sports and otherwise, were postponed as the nation became consumed in self defense against this natural disaster. The threat has dissipated and all thanks and praises to Jah.

One event that was staged as originally planned is the 2010 2^nd Annual Table Tennis Team League which blasted off inside the Belize Elementary School Auditorium yesterday featuring 12 teams in 2 divisions. In division 1, play team Ace launched off Riveros Welders 5-1, Bombers shot Suga City 5-4. Racqueteers handed No Mercy a 5-2 defeat. Bombers made it 2 in a row edging Ace 5-4. Rivero Welders rebounded to beat No Mercy 5-4 and Racqueteer picks up its second win with a 5-3 win over Suga City. In division 2 play, Phoenix crushed Assassins 5-zip. Cobra hurt Team L 5-3 and Garage handled Young Stars in a 5-3 score. Hurricane then defeated Assassins 5-1, Phoenix smashed Young Stars 5-1 for tis second win and Garage kept its pace with a 5-1 over Team L. The action resumes Saturday in 2^nd Division play with Hurricane facing Cobra, Assassins aim at the Young Stars and Phoenix battles Team L.

In other news, Belize will participate in the Commonwealth Games being staged at New Delhi, India, which gets off on October 3^rd and concludes on October 14^th. The leader of the delegation is Patrick Henry of the National Sports Council and is en-route to New Delhi as we speak. Representing Belize in track and field are Kathy Sealy who will compete in the heptathlon, Kina Martinez in the 100 and 200 meters and Kayde Vaughn in Long Jump. The cyclists making the games are Edgar Arana, Jairo Campos, Brandon Cattouse, Gregory Lovell and Byron Pope and of course Belize top female cyclist, Shalini Zabaneh. They’ll be competing in the road race and the individual time trial.

Speaking of cycling, people we join the family, friends and fellow cyclists who mourn the untimely passing of Kristopher Chuc who lost his life in a traffic accident on the Western Highway last Thursday while on a training ride with his team, Cayo High Road Cycling. We take this opportunity to remind both motorists and cyclists that most tragedies of this kind can be avoided. Motorists must drive carefully and should slow down when overtaking the riders. Cyclists can also help this case by not riding in bunches during training and please guys if it is an early morning or late evening session, put a light or a reflector on your bike and wear something that can be spotted in the dark. Fact is that there are not many paces other that the highways for our cyclists to train. Bad attitude on both sides of the equation can prove fatal. Sleep on Kris.

Meanwhile folks, the cycling community will continue to prepare for the Orange Walk By-Pass Criterium scheduled for October 11^th and also the Sagitun Banana Cycle Classic which is scheduled for November 12^th. Live and let live people—each life is a gift from Jah.

Finally folks, through the efforts of the National Sports Council and Leopold Smart’s Gym, the Sport of Boxing is set for a revival on the Belizean landscape. Coming on October 16^th, Belize will host a contingent of Mexican boxers for a night of fight inside the Belize Biltmore Hotel. In the card are 7 fights that finds Belizean boxers in competitive action against their Mexican counterparts and 3 exhibition matches—2 juvenile boys and a female clash—you won’t want to miss. It is big, it’s international and you won’t want to miss it.

Jah overall, I’m James Adderley.

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The national Football Team embarks on a 2^nd International friendly this weekend when they journey to Petén, Guatemala to face their Guatemalan counterparts at 3 p.m. on Saturday, October 9^th. The last outing saw Belize hold the Trinidad and Tobago national team to a scoreless stalemate on September 10^th at the FFB Stadium in Belmopan in a ballgame they could have won from the penalty spot. Belize has never beaten Guatemala at this A-team level and most fans are looking for a change in this equation.

In other football news, Third World Future presents a Day of Fun for footballers in the lake and Collet Divisions this Saturday, October 9^th at the St. Martin’s Field beginning at 9 a.m. Deon Flowers and Stanley Reneau are behind this effort. New here are the results of play in BDFL Football over the weekend. Belmopan Blaze and the B.D.F. battled to a 1-1 tie, Toledo Ambassadors shook up the San Pedro Seadogs in a 3-zip affair, and San Felipe Barcelona handled Hankook Verdes in a 2-1 finish while FC Belize burned Griga United 1-zip.

Turning to the softball scene, let us play catch up on the Interoffice Competition currently in session at Rogers Stadium. We join Saturdays match-up between B.E.L. Power Sockets and B.T.L. in the bottom of the 1^st with the telephone company down 4-zip.

With a runner at 2^nd, Melissa Foreman serves up this hit to Francis Usher. Center fielder, Adrian Torres, fails to handle the long fly, the run comes in and Usher get5s this hit off Foreman to bring in Usher. Nelson Tillett cuts the deficit to a single run with a double that allows him to reach 3^rd base on fielder’s choice. In the top of the 2^nd, Denise Gillette extends the B.E.L. lead with this hit off Emily Audinett but is tagged out at 2^nd trying to extend a single into a double. In the bottom of the inning, Francis Usher beats out this infield single to make it a 5-4 ballgame.

Lupito Acosta then comes with the bases loaded who swings into an infield single that proved to be anything but routine for the B.E.L. defense as B.T.L. takes a 6-5 lead and would score 1 more in this turn at bat to make it 7 to 5. Francis Usher who replaced Emily Audinett on the mound for B.E.L. strikes out Stacey Wade to retire the side without conceding a run. In the next inning, Usher is facing Errol Reneau and he gets this hit pass 1^st base to bring in 2 more runs. As of four innings, Belize Telemedia is up 11 to 5.

In the top of the 5^th, Usher gives up 4 runs to B.T.L. including these 2 off a ball hit by Adrian Gentle which he should have fielded. The throw to home plate by Otis Clother is missed by the catcher and 2 runs score to make it 13-9. The bases are loaded for B.T.L. in the 6^th when Gregg Kerr hits this pitch from Emily Audinett to the short stop to cap a 3 run swing and make it a 13-12 score. However, B.T.L. explodes for 6 more runs in the bottom of the 6^th which gives them a 19-13 big win as we say good show.

In table tennis news, the 2010 Brother Habet Team League continues to roll at the Belize Elementary School Auditorium. On Saturday, hurricane overwhelmed Team Cobra 5 to 1, Phoenix blanked Team L 5-zip while Assassins edged rest Team Young Stars in a 5-4 finding our Young Stars looking to Saturday, October 9^th. 1^st Division play finds ACE facing No Mercy, Bombers aim at Raqueteers and Rivero Welders matches up with Suga City. 2^nd Division action features Hurricane against Young Stars, Cobra takes on Garage and Assassins meet Team L.

Finally folks, the T’s have been crossed and the I’s dotted for the big fight being presented by Smart’s Gym in collaboration with the National Sports Council on Friday, October 15^th at the Biltmore Plaza. Fighting for Belize inside the square ring will be Sherman Galvez, Max Williams, Kenyon, Anderson Portillo, Zane Rudon, Kailin Lamb and Harold Mariano in a Belize versus Mexico tournament. Also on the ticket will be a juvenile and a female match-up of Mexican fighters. Admission fee is $15.00 reserve, $5.00 general and every child under the age of 12 will be allowed in free. You won’t want to miss it.

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley. Channel 5

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

Team Belize dismounts the tour bus that took them to the Estadio Municipal Julian Tesecum at San Jose Petén, Guatemala on Saturday for its big international friendly against the Guatemala national football team under heavy scrutiny by the media and fans. As our team takes the pitch in the opening ceremonies, they are well aware that they are in a strange land and secondly they have never tasted victory against this country that nurses a claim to our homeland ever before. And yes folks our national item did take place in the niceties that preceded the match. Very quickly the home side test Woodrow West in goal since Shane Orio didn’t make the trip as Marvin Avila centers dangerously into the goal mouth but West manages. With some ten minutes in when Trevor Lennon allows Mario Castellanos to push this ball over the head of a pole in the position west and Guatemala takes the early 1-zip lead.

A few minutes later, Elroy Smith quiets the Guatemalan fans somewhat with this potent right foot off the said piece that forces Christian Alvarez into a big time save. Around the 33^rd minute, Elroy Smith finds Harrison ‘Kafu’ Roches and his header forces Alvarez to conceive the equalizer for Belize. And the Belizean supporters at Petén gets charged up by the 1-1 score going into intermission.

Things get a bit ugly as soon as the action resumed as some unsavory character hurls this missile at Woodrow West. The hit forces the keeper to the ground but he would continue. On their first possession after things came down, the Guats go to Carlos Coserillo whose right foot at the far corner is mishandled by West. Lester Ruiz lets him pay as he pushes the score to a 2-1 showing. However, Belize comes right back off this said piece that Victor Morales rolls to Elroy smith who finds Elroy Kuylen and just like that it’s a 2-2 ballgame. Folks we can’t really say what Ian Gaynair does to deserve this red card especially during this kick off, but the referee determines that Belize should be condemned to a numerical disadvantage in this international friendly. To make matters even more interesting. A massive display of fireworks follows the expulsion. In the meantime, Woodrow West does well against this shot from inside the box by Lester Ruiz, to keep the match tied at 2 a piece. The Guats take a 3-2 lead when Carlos Caserillo picks out Dwight Peserosi and his header beats West to give his home team its third lead ah di match. Three minutes later, Dalton lee clears this ball but only as far as Carlos Figueroa who makes it a 4-2 score for Guatemala. ‘Kafu’ then gets this look at goal but the effort to pull one back is thwarted by the substitute goalkeeper, Jaime Cardoval. Guatemala goes on to post the 4-2 big W.

Bertie Chimilio, President, FFB

“I think we played an excellent game. With ten men, two goals, shows that it should have happened that way and that’s how it happened. If Guatemala didn’t win it would have been very, very good for us. I think we held out with ten men. We played a new brand of football that people here haven’t seen. And we have been congratulated everywhere I walk—you’ve played good, you played well and you can only go up if you continue like this.”

Ian Gaynair, Belize National Team

“Dah celebrate we mi di celebrate. I neva know that dah mi wah yellow card fi di way how we celebrate. All I do dah put my hand behind my ears and run down going back to by my side and I get wah next yellow card fi that. I noh think I deserve that. I feel real bad because the whole game change and all the pressure come right pan fi we side. So I think that I really hurt the team when I get that red card.”

Harrison “Kafu” Roches, Belize National Team

“That dah the game, you know. We have to thank god once again for this opportunity out here once again for this shirt with all our hearts and mind we go out there and do it. We come out losing but the fight was good can’t complain.”

Elroy Kuylen, Belize National Team

“We practice dehn play deh—dehn dah the set piece. We surprised the team. Everybody haul dah back post and the ball get played ina di space and dah so di goal come.”

And we certainly wanna say thanks to Alex Palacio for conducting our interviews.

In other football news, BPFL play over the weekend. FC Belize beat San Felipe Barcelona 3-1. Belmopan Blaze bounce San Pedro Seadogs 3-zip and Belize Defence Force edge Toledo Ambassadors 4-3 while Hankook Verdes and Griga United battled to a scoreless stalemate.

Checking the table tennis scene in the 2010 Table Tennis Team League. Over the weekend, Bombers shoot down Raqueteers 5-2 while in the other first division match Suga City edge Rivero’s Welders 5-4. In second division action, Young Stars blew away Hurricane 5-2. Assassin took out Team “L” 5-1. And Garage roll over Cobra by that same score. This Saturday finds 6 second division teams in action—Hurricane faces garage, Young Stars take on Team “L” and Cobra goes to work against Pheonix.

Turning to the Cycling Scene, it was a field spring that saw Austin Armstrong of Clear the Land grab the 40 mile junior race in yesterday’s O.W.’s bypass criterium beating out Daniel Choto, Dijon Spence, Oscar Quiros Joel Bowman in that order. In the masters class, Big Mike Lewis, riding unattached edged out Roque Matus for top honors, forcing Barney Brown into third, Omar Gomez fourth and Henry Moreira fifth in a race that saw 30 start and 26 finish. Meanwhile the finish to the elite class featured four under 23 riders making a bid, but it is David Henderson of Indeco with the ‘W’ as Donicedi Vasquez, peter Choto and Giovanni Choto take this next three spots in that order. Barney Brown then beat the field to round out the top five. The next big event on the calendar is the Sagitun Banana Classic set for November 7^th, at Independence.

In news from the 19^th Commonwealth Games, Belize best finish in the 12 lap 168km ride came from Greg Lovell who finished 26^th. Edgar Arana also completed the course, but at the 46 position. 133 athletes from 33 countries participated with Allan Davis of Australia winning the gold. It’s the first time Belizean cyclist have completed this even in the Commonwealth Games.

Finally folks, boxing returns to Belize in a presentation at the Belize Biltmore Plaza that matches our fighters against our Mexican Counterparts this Friday October 15^th at 6p.m. tickets are on sale at the National Sports Council and the fight will be aired on Channel 5 right after Friday’s news package and will be streamed on the internet making it available for one and all so enjoy wherever you are.

Hey folks, that’s the show for today. We invite you back same time same place next week.

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

James Adderley has pound for pound boxing stats on Sports Monday

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

Amateur Boxing returned to Belize with a bang Friday night inside the Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel which housed a monster matchup between Leopold Smart’s Gym and an official contingent from Chetumal, Mexico. Things got off to a roaring start as 2 under 16 fighters from Mexico opened in an exhibition bout to encourage the Belizean youth to start early in the sport and we thank Carlos de Jesus Ortiz and Jose Alfredo Rodriguez Diaz for this endeavor. In the meantime, the first Belize versus Mexico bout saw 115 pounder Kalin lamb get knocked down in the 2^nd round of a 3 rounder by Luis Selaya who would go on to claim the big W on a TKO in the 3^rd round.

Folks, Zane Ruden at 132 lbs had the unfortunate opportunity to face the national amateur fly weight champion of Mexico, Jesus Tomas Cardena and indeed Ruden had very little chance against this buzz saw of a fighter forcing Coach Smart to throw in the towel. Cardona gets his hands raised in victory. Meanwhile Harold Mariano of Belize proved to be a fame fighter in his lightweight fight against Erick Herrera and for a while he was in the contest. However in the 3^rd round, Herrera unleashes this onslaught that forces the Belizean to concede before things descended any further. Minister of Sports, Patrick Faber, delivers the trophy to the winner, Herrera.

Down 0 & 3, the many fans inside the Biltmore turn to Alex Neal for the first big W and Neal looked quite capable in the opening round against Jesus Pichales. By the 3^rd round, Neal had run out of gas so Pichales turns on the pressure . We must tell you that Alex Neal was a late addition to the card and his laclk of shape became painfully evident as he tries to hang on. Fortunately referee Ordonez stopped the proceedings before Neal got real hurt.

The other exhibition fight on the card found Maria Guadalupe Garcia and Guadalupe Pacheco mixing it up at the middleweight class, providing us with the painful reminder that we have no female boxers in Belize. And if you look good, Guadalupe Pacheco is also a referee and judge and we thank both for this display.

At this juncture, an air of resignation has begun to creep in among the standing room of fans that we wouldn’t pick up a win. When Max “Pain” Williams steps out in the welter weight class against Pedro Zepeda and jumps off to a fast start. Zepeda, the Mexican, appears to be pushed down by max which is illegal. However, when the action resumes, max delivers real pain to the abdomen and the head of Zepeda for the real knock down. Zepeda promptly goes to his corner and decides he wants no more of Max Williams. Belize gets the W on the Max’s TKO. Max celebrates in acrobatic fashion while the fans could not disguise their glee. It had been a long time coming and this walk back to the locker room by Max “Pain” proves our point. Empowered by the “Pain” win, Anderson Portillo comes out fast against his opponent Yael Martinez, the bronze medalist at the light heavy weight division and that strategy would not work against the better conditioned fighter. The 3^rd and decisive round bring total domination by the visitor who dealt out real punishment to Portillo to win this one.

This brings us to the welter weight clash between Sherman Galvez, Belize’s amateur fighter and Alberto Mex, who finished 5^th as the weight class in the Mexican Nationals and right away Galvez lives up to his top notch billing. In the second round, Galvez launches this vicious attack on Mex that tags him with straight rights which sends the Mexican into the ropes and the onslaught continues until referee Ordonez steps in. Galvez continues with bruising blows to Mex who tries to fight back but realizes Galvez was getting the better of the exchanges and guess what, mex’s corner concedes the fight as Sherman Galvez picks up the second win for Belize in impressive fashion. The Mexican won 5-2 but the 2 big wins were enough to satisfy the Belizean fans.

Sherman Galvez, Boxer

“I’ve been training eight months straight, three months preparations. Ina this fight, I feel like, dah mi wahn challenge and everything but I think my workout and everything weh I do pay off good mien.”

James Adderley

“When did you know that you were the man in command of the situation?”

Sherman Galvez

“Well in the end of the first round.”

James Adderley

“Which was the best round for you?”

Sherman Galvez

“The second round cause ih done deh.”

Max “Pain” Williams, Boxer

“I just come out and give my best. I believe ina god. And once you pray to god, god wah give you the strength fi do anything. So that dah weh I do, I pray to god fi give me the strength and god did give me the strength today ina the ring.”

Leonard Ysaguirre

“I know it was the most overwhelming fight of the night. It was two minutes twelve seconds

Max “Pain” Williams

“No, one minute twelve seconds.”

Leonard Ysaguirre

“A first round knock out. I am going by the time the time keeper gave me, but I want to say congratulations to you. I’m hoping this is the first of many and I hope you keep it up.”

Anderson Portillo, Boxer

“I’m gonna build up my stamina because I noticed that was one of my weaknesses. I got to let go more shots. I did survive my three rounds, I promised my three rounds. I used both my guards, I used my strategies but you know obviously the man had some good shots.”

James Adderley

“In the third round, you took a lot of unnecessary shots. Were you hurt?”

Anderson Portillo

“I have a dislocated shoulder that is half way healing. I guess he paralyzed me for a moment so I used different guard but I guess that’s how strategy.”

James Adderley

“But Anderson we’ll see you again?”

Anderson Portillo

“Definitely, you wahn see me yah, Mexico, wherever. I am going to fight anybody, anytime, anywhere.”

Meanwhile folks, it was our MC Jose Sanchez that gave Max Williams the nickname “Pain” and apparently he knew what he was talking about. The boxing community takes this opportunity to thank all who supported this fight including the National Sports Council, Channel 5, Dion Leslie, Tony Habet and all other sponsors. We promise to do it again shortly.

Turning to the volleyball scene, Arnid Arnold and Germaine Audinett turned back a strong challenge for Ernest Broaster and Raul Arnold to win the Tropigas 2 on 2 Beach Tournament: 21-13, 23-2. In the ladies side Jasmin Anderson and Karina Martinez combined their efforts to grab the title from Tisha Solis and Yishel Solis and we say congratulations.

In football news, BPFL play on the weekend saw Belmopan Blaze and San Felipe Barcelona battle to a 1-all stalemate. Toledo Ambassadors and FC Belize settled for a scoreless stalemate. While the defending champion, B.D.F. blanked Griga United 2-zip.

In the table tennis scene, Team Ace crushed No Mercy 5 to 1 over the weekend in the Brothers Habet Team League to pull up to 3^rd place in the 1^st division. In the 2^nd division play, Hurricane blew away Garage 5-3, Phoenix blanked Cobra 5-sip and Young Stars handled Team L in a 5-3 finish. This Saturday, October 23^rd, 1^st Division play finds ACE facing Racqueteers, No Mercy takes on Suga City and Bombers takes aim at Rivero Welders. In 2^nd Division action, Hurricane faces Team L, Garage goes up against Young Stars and Cobra goes to work against Phoenix.

In basketball news, the national U-15 basketball selection looked to even its 3 game series against the CODICADER silver medalist Sacred Heart College Friday night in game II inside the City Center as it prepared to compete in CENTROBASKET in Chiapas, Mexico from the 1^st to the 6^th November. Again, the young stars were out gunned by the High school team. There is Kashif Thomas with 2 of his game high 26 points to lead Sacred Heart to a 63-50 big W. Edar Mitchell helped in the W with 14 points score. For the U-15 team, Kyle Middleton led the way with 14 points while Brian White threw up 13 points. The U-15 team plays against the older guys in preparation for show time inside COCABA and we say good luck.

Finally in cycling news, Darnell Barrow of Sarteneja took the BCA 42 mile race on Saturday with Jesus Cassasola 2^nd and Glen O’Brien 3^rd in a race that averaged 23.24 miles per hour.

Jah Over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Sports Monday also affected by Hurricane Richard

Well by now you’d know that Richard caused substantive damage around the country and that life came to a standstill in most areas as most citizens headed to shelters or secured themselves at home. It means that sporting events were off limits and so this Monday’s Sports report from James Adderley is being deferred for next week. James expects to be back with a bang so stay tuned.

James Adderley with the Weekly Sports Wrap up

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The Inter-District Football Tournament as presented by the Football Federation of Belize moved into the playoffs over the weekend with all 8 teams seeing action in the quarterfinal round. We caught up with the matchup inside the People’s Stadium, O.W. where Carmelita FC hosted Mavericks of Punta Gorda in a ballgame that produced half a dozen goals.

In the early goings the home team, the Carmelita in control when Marlon Miranda mounts this individual effort that allows him to enter this ball into the danger zone—a streaking Aldair Chan can’t do anything with it as the visiting Mavericks eventually come up with the necessary clearance. Carmelita continues to push the ballgame when Richard Gillett pushes this pass too close to goalkeeper Carl Ramclam who bungles the clearance, Orvin Wade Jr. comes up with possession and he gives his team a 1-zip lad some 20 minutes in. Marlon Miranda then gets his turn to give Carmelita a 2-zip lead but unleashes a high riser from this open look at goal. 7 minutes later, Edwin Gillett finds Orvin Wade Jr. with this spot kick—Wade’s header finds Richard Gillett and his right away right foot crashes into the net to give Carmelita a 2-zip lead which they would take into intermission.

The second half play, the Mavericks from PG come alive—Everette Genus deals to Kenton “Microwave” Galvez, fresh off the bench, he is taken down inside the box by Albert Conorquie and the referee rules penalty. Up steps Jamie Mangar for the visitors and he pulls one back with this conversion to make it a 2-1 score. At the other end, Miranda picks out Isaac Gillett Jr. but his header at goal can only he defined as errant. A few minutes later, Richard Gillett keeps this ball alive to Jeron Ico, Ramclam is beaten and the host team takes a 3-1 lead. Now here is an ugly foul by Jevon Ico on Zebeehan Moore which leads to a red card that leaves Carmelita with 10 men. To make matters worse, Ico tries to intimidate the referee who sticks to his guns. In fact, things almost got out of control when Moore runs at ICO in a bid for vengeance, however cooler heads prevailed and we must ask what Jevon Ico was doing on the pitch after being red carded.

So the Mavericks set out to make the most of their numerical advantage and in heavy traffic, Kenton ‘Microwave” Galvez turns on this ball to force a 3-2 showing on the scoreboard.

In the meantime, we maintain that Everette Genus should have received a card for this unnecessary challenge on goalkeepers Alvin Conorquie, but none was forthcoming. It’s getting late now, so the Mavericks look to the set piece for the equalizer. They send for “Microwave” Galvez against a wall 6 man deep and his potent low cruise missile sizzles pass everyone for the 3-3 final score.

In other action in the FFB Inter-District Tournament which features a home and away format in the quarterfinals; World FC hurt Hopkins 4-1, Libertad double Benguche 2-1 and Athletico handled Cristo Rey by that very same score.

In news from the BPFL action, over the weekend saw Belmopan Blaze blank Hankook Verdes 2-zip, San Felipe Barcelona beat San Pedro Sea Dogs 3-2 and the Belize Defence Force edged FC Belize 2-1.

Finally in cycling news, the massive Sagitun Cycling Classic is set for this Sunday Novermber 7^th, at Independence, This race has been converted to a 10 lap circuit event to make it more spectator-friendly and we applaud the effort. Also coming up on Sunday, November 14^th, is the UWI 2^nd Annual play of races on Marine parade in the City so stay tuned.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

James Adderley gets ripped with bodybuilding on Sports Monday

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday

The 6^th Annual Sagitun Cycling Classic was staged yesterday at Independence with a whopping 60 riders suited up for the 66 Mile Open race on a circuit from Senter to PG Junction, through Big Creek and back to Senter for the big finish. And of course their off.

This group of seven riders which includes the Guatemalan Donizette Vasquez-Aburto of Despredadores, Chris McNish of Benny’s Megabytes, Lisando Acu and Kyne Gentle of Western Spirit extricates itself from the main bunch around the halfway mile. We head to the finish now and it’s the Guatemalan Donizette Vasquez-Aburto of Despredadores who takes to 5 man sprint grabbing top honors in 2 hours 40 minutes 35 seconds. Chris McNish of Benny’s Megabytes is 2^nd, Lisandro Acu of Santino’s is 3r, Kyne Gentle pulls up 4^th while Luis Santizo, another Guatemalan rounds out the top 5 in a race that averaged 24.66 miles per hour with 24 riders abandoning the event.

In the Master’s Class, 3 time cross country champion, Ernest Meighan of Santino’s easily fool that 33 mile race in 1 hour 26 minutes 4 secs beating out Wilbert Jones of Benny’s megabytes and Ken Gladden of Typhoon in that order. Henry Moreira and Luigi Urbina rounds out the top 5 in a race that averaged 23 miles per hour with 24 of the 30 cyclist that started completing the ride. Two females also participated in this class—Shalini Zabaneh beat out Jr. Rider, Patricia Chavarria by 14 minutes 14 seconds. Meanwhile the Jr. 77 mile rode saw Daniel Choto of Cayo High Road Cycling outsprint Deezan Spencer of Clear the Land to claim top honors in a time of 2 hours 25 minutes 57 seconds with an average speed of 22.61 miles per hour. Joel Borland of Indeco then beat the Guatemalan Alejandro Tejero for 3^rd place while Darren Williams rounds out the top 5 in a race that saw 30 start and 15 finish.
The next big cycling event on the calendar comes up this Sunday, November 14^th, right here in Belize City as the University of the West Indies proudly presents a day of races on Marine Boulevard and it promises to be big.

Turning to the Body Building Scene, the Mister Belize Contest grabbed center stage inside the Bliss Auditorium Friday night with a monster package of wall to wall muscle. We go immediately to the four man clash for competition under the 170 pounds and by the way we always thought that body building was a non-contact sport. In his debut, Giovanni Gomez takes on the big boys but can only muster up a fourth place finish. We’re certain you will hear from this athlete again. Allen Holliday has the size and the ambition but his symmetry and definition is not pronounced enough to truly challenge for the tile and he has to settle for 3rd place. In the meantime, Deon Ortiz shows real promise as a bodybuilder and will win the Mister Belize title sooner rather than later, but he is just not ready to depose the king, Deon Danderson. Ortiz has to settle for the runner-up spot, 2010.

For his part, the reigning Mister Belize title holder, comes out on top of his game and ready for prime time to win the under 170 pounds class almost hands down. In fact, this podium shot emphasizes the distance between Danderson and the rest as he gets ready to challenge for the Mister Belize title again.

At the over 170 pounds meanwhile, tonight’s contenders are Edwin Ramirez, Deon banner, Victor Valencia and Rico Vellos. Victor Valencia does need to put in a lot of work to become an elite bodybuilder and does not make it to the podium tonight. Deon Banner also needs fine tuning to display the definition demanded at this level. He shows promise but is relegated to third place. Rico Vellos threw down a strong challenge with this exhibition. He has size, shape and presence but it’s only good enough for second place tonight. Why? Well former Mister Belize, Edwin Ramirez, is in his element and pulls out quite a show in his routine that earns him the win at this weight class. And as we go to the podium shot, all we can say is that a picture tells a thousand words. So now the two divisional winners meet in a face off at the 2010 Mister Belize title of bodybuilding and you’ve got to be an expert to determine who is the winner here. The judges are and they decide that Deon Danderson is the better of the two today and we say congratulations.

We now turn to the Miss Belize Body fitness competition and standing in the winner’s circle again, Kayla Myvette. Newcomers, Olga Vidas and Kaina Martinez finish second and third respectively while former champion, Gina Lovell, was relegated to fourth place. This brought a howl of protest from the fans, but the decision stands.

Turning to the football scene, action in the FFB’s Inter-district Competition over the weekend saw Club Athletico eliminated Cristo Rey in a 3-2 aggregate after yesterdat’s 1-1 draw at Corozal. Down South, Benguche forced extra time after beating Libertadores 2-1 but Libertadores came up with 2 goals in extra time to move on. P.G. Mavericks got into the semifinals with a 1-zip defeat off Carmelita while World FC held Hopkins to a 2 all draw which was enough to get them into the next week.

Thus the semifinal round gets off this Sunday with Mavericks travelling to Libertadores while World FC will play host to Club Athleticos. In BPFL results: Toledo Ambassadors edged hankook Verdes 1-zip, FC Belize sink the San Pedro Sea Dogs in a 4-1 blast, san Felipe Barcelona blanked Belmopan Blaze 1-zip while B.D.F. and Griga United settled to a scoreless stalemate.

Finally in Tennis Table news, on Saturday Bombers crushed No Mercy 5-1 in 1^st division play and Racqueteers rallied past Rivero Welders in a 5-4 decision. At the 2^nd division level, Phoenix shook up Hurricane 5-3 and Garage mashed up Assassins in a 5-zip finish. Thus the 4 teams to make the 1^st diviosn finals are Bombers, Ace, Racqueteers and Rivero Welders. And in the 2^nd Division play its Phoenix, Hurricane, Garage and Assassins.

The finals is set for Sunday, November 14^th, at Belize Elementary auditorium featuring a round robin format in both categories and you don’t want to miss it.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

James Adderley with the Weekly Sports Update

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

As the semifinal round of the FFB’s Inter-District Football Tournament reaches its natural conclusion, over the weekend, we headed West, yesterday where World FC hosted Club Athletico inside the Norman Forrester Stadium to close out the home and series after last week’s 1-1 draw at Belmopan. Immediately into the ballgame, the home team looks for the early goal when Cesar Villeda frees up Joel Guzman whose right foot grass head burner rolls outside the upright. We’re some 12 minutes in when Carlos Vasquez triggers this spotlight at goal—goalkeeper, Orlando Galdamez makes the initial stop—Elliott Bermudez send it back into the danger zone and connects with Vasquez who gives World FC the 1-zip lead. Just 2 minutes later, Joel Guzman gets another chance to aim at the far post and this time the ball dangles in the net to make it a 2-zip World FC lead.

It’s all World FC when Carlos Vasquez looks for his 2^nd goal of the match but this time is denied by Galdamez. In the next press, Vasquez gets a foot on this ball that should have been handled by Galdamez but the mud and water in front of the goalmouth, prevents it from scoring—Mike Chavez is the first to react—he complicates the situation and gets away with it. Folks it looks like a rout when Elliott Bermudez outruns the Athletico defense and finds the rear corner to make it a 3-zip score in favor of World FC. In the meantime, goalkeeper Galdamez continues to live dangerously when he fails to come up with ball and somehow gets away with two legit scoring attempts that bounce off the rear post. So Club Athletico gets busy as David Madrid mounts this foray into the box. He beats the keeper but gets taken down inside the eighteen for the which the referee rules penalty. Melvin Barrientos steps up for the Belmopan Team and pulls one back with a nice looking penalty conversion and at the half World FC leads 3-1.

We’re in early 2^nd half action when Julian Maldonado picks up this loose ball that niche outside the stick. Some 7 minutes later, Club Athletico goes for goal off the set piece and indeed this left foot launch is a beautiful spot kick you’ll want to see as it bounces off both uprights to make it a 3-2 score, thanks to the delivery by Edel Diaz fresh off the bench. Diaz then gets this chance to the ballgame at 3 apiece but the left foot fails to get past the keeper. This wakes up the home team so Vasquez launches this long distance floater that bounces off the crossbar—the ball rebounds to Miguel Aguilar and World FC takes a 4-2 lead. Meanwhile, Sean Mas has an open look from pointblank range to make it 4-3, but is let down by a feeble left foot. The visitors then seal their demise when Joseph Waight is taken down inside the goal by Mike Chavez and the penalty call is automatic. It’s Miguel Aguilar who steps up and calmly pushes the pill past Galdamez for his 2^nd goal of the match as World FC goes on to post the 5-2 big W.

They win 6-3 an aggregate and are into the 2^nd game championship series. They’ll be facing Libertadores of Corozal who held mavericks to a 2-2 draw at Punta Gorda on Sunday to win the series with a 4-2 aggregate. Thus game 1 of the FFB Inter-District finals between World FC and Libertadores is set for December 5^th at the Ricalde Stadium in Corozal.

In other football news, Sports Monday mourns the passing of Thomas Suazo—a Dangriga footballer who was recently called up to the National A-team of Belize. He had played on the Under-17 and Under-20 National Team and condolences goes out to his family and friends.

Turning to the Cycling Scene, former Cross Coutnry Champion, Collet Maheia presented a cycle race to celebrate his birthday over the weekend. At the Elite Class, Glen O’Brien of Zamia took the win in 1 hour 51 minutes 19 seconds with Mike Lewis 2^nd and Brandon Cattouse 3^rd in a race that saw 32 start and 13 finish. While in the Master Class, Ernest Meighan of Santino’s took the 44 Mile ride in 1 hour 56 minutes 48 seconds from a 3 man sprint with Warren Coye and Robert Stewart finishing 2^nd and 3^rd, respectively.

Finally folks, the 14^th Alpheus Williams HIV/AIDS Cycling Classic is set for Sunday December 5^th and will run Capital City Belmopan to Leslie Imports outside Belize City on the Western Highway. It is gonna be a monster so don’t miss it. Gregg Lovell goes in as defending champion on the Elite Class. Daniel Choto the Junior Champ and Shalini Zabaneh, the defending female champ.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The softball community converged on Roger’s Stadium yesterday to pay respect to a fallen hero of the sport, Charles Solis, with the presentation of a grand regular tournament in his name featuring the defending champion Mirage Lady Rebels, National Champion Grace Kennedy of Roaring Creek, Camalotte Cristal Parrots and Easy Does It of Flowers Bank. We must say Grace Kennedy had an easy time making it to the finals so we join the matchup between Lady Rebels and Easy Does it as they make a bid to face Grace Kennedy for all the marbles. In fact, we’re in the top of the 6^th inning with Lady Rebels up 5 to 4 when Diane Baldwin ties the ballgame with this single that brings Anna Gillett home. However, the big blow comes from Shana Robinson when this power smash brings home Diane Baldwin and Tricia Rhaburn as Easy Does It takes a 7-5 lead and would beat the defending champs by that score to make ti to the finals in a major upset.

So we move to the money game as Leandra Guy takes the mound for Grace Kennedy who strikes out Kathleen Rhaburn to come out of the 1^st inning unscathed. The national champ gets its first run of the ballgame from Stephanie Francis who gets this single past Hendy to bring Karlee Bradley home from third base. With 2 on shortstop, Shadalee shacks Hendy really hard for 2 runs and then Shadalee takes advantage of poor defensive play to make it a 4 run 1^st inning.

In the second inning, Tanya Davis brings in another with this infield single; meanwhile, the bases are loaded for Myralee Ho and this ball should have been caught but is dropped by the shortstop and 2 more runs come in and at the end of 2^nd inning, Grace Kennedy leads 8-zip. Easy Does it tries to come back in the 3^rd, but its poor defensive work at 3^rd base that allows Diane Rhaburn to get their 1^st run. Baldwin then relieves Hendy on the mound and promptly gets the force out at 2^nd base. Nevertheless, Greta Davis brings home Karlee Bradley for the 9^th run in favor of the national champs who go on to win the 7^th Annual Charles Solis Memorial Title in an 11-6 final score thanks to the Mercy Rule. We say congratulations to Grace Kennedy and to their star pitcher, Leandra Guy who walked away with the MVP award.

Turning to the Table Tennis Scene, the BWF National Championship staged yesterday saw David Jones and Tux Vasquez battle to get into the men singles final. We’re in the 5^th and decisive game with each player having won 2 games each and the score tied at 9 apiece. Tux Vasquez comes up with a tough shot but David Jones handles it so Tux tries the other edge and misses. Vasquez ties the game with this underhand slice that Jones cannot handle. Vasquez then fails to find the edge of the table to concede the 11^th point to Jones. It’s David Jones now serving for the Big Win—Tux cannot handle the spin and Jones moves into the finals where he would defeat Zhi Cheng to claim the National men Singles title. However, it wasn’t all bad for Tux Vasquez who teamed up with Petie Matus to heat Carlos Cui and Cui Ahen Li for the national men doubles title and here they are on their way to the finals rolling ever Mister and Misses Marion Usher 3-zip. Meanwhile, Harin Ochaeta battled Victor Quan to 3-1 finish to claim the Cadet U-15 title. Petie Matus blanked Cui Zhen Li 3-zip to claim the national women singles championship and Nelito Ayuso teamed up with Ernesto Rivero to heat Dan Habet and Landy Habet 3-1 for the national men doubles title. We say congratulations to one and all.

Checking the football scene, the F.F.B. Inter-district Championship series gets off this Sunday at the Ricalde Stadium with Libertadores hosting World FC of Cayo to kick off the 2 game series. In other football news, results from BPFL play shows that the BDF blanked Toledo Ambassadors 3-zip, Griga United and Hankook Verdes battled to a 1-1 tie while FC Belize edged San Felipe Barcelona 3 to 2. New here is a reminder tha the Belize Cycling Association presents the Alpheus Williams Classic this Sunday, December 5^th and Gregg Lovell goes in as defending champion. In closing folks we leave you with images from the 7^th Annual Special Olympics staged at the MCC grounds and it certainly was a fun thing for all involved.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

James Adderley and the weekend blotter of Sports

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and welcome to Sports Monday.

The new cycling calendar as presented by the Belize Cycling Association got off with a bang yesterday as the 50 mile Alpheus Williams HIV Classic reigned supreme on the Western Highway with all the big guns out to make the point that they’ll be ready for the 2011 Cross Country Cycling Classic.

It’s a rolling start featuring a whopping 96 riders as the race leaves the starting line at the Belmopan Comprehensive School to go around the ring road and looking for his 3^rd in a row is the 2-time defending Champion Greg Lovell riding for Team Zamir of Orange Walk. It’s a sight to behold when a field this large hugs the curve coming out of Belmopan and the real journey begins.

Around Mile 33, the pelathon is spread out and this is a glimpse of men and their mean machines travelling at 30 miles per hour and any self respecting rider is right here. As we pan forward, we see Darnell Barrow, Glen O’Brien, Big Mike Lewis, George Abraham, Shane Vasquez (the last Belizean Cross Country Champ), Marlon Castillo and on the pace is the Guatemalan Luis Santiago, Ernest Meighan, Geon Hanson and Brandon Cattouse.

It’s around Mile 17 when this group of 18 finally extricate themselves from the main bunch which includes Jose Choto, Glen O’Brien, Nissan Arana, Henry Morriera, Arnide Rovers, Greg Lovell, Hernan Ochaeta and Byron Pope. Of the pelathon is just 56 seconds behind which is manageable. Race commisaire Kwane Scott confirms the lead time. At mile 12, the group of 18 has extended the lead to 1 minute 14 seconds and again we have the evidence. So now, we’ve got a 15 man sprint to the tape at Leslie’s Imports—Leroy Cassasola has the early lead—Greg Lovell responds with the afterburner and indeed no one can stop the speedster who wins his 3^rd Alpheus Williams Classic in a row with a time of 1 hour 43 minutes 58 seconds. Byron Pope of Benny’s Megabytes pulls up 2^nd, Kyne Gentle of Western Spirit is 3^rd while Leroy Cassasola of SAntino’s is 4^th and Juan Umana-Horis rounds out the top 5. Of the 96 that started 76 riders completed the route in a race that was clocked at 28.047 miles per hours. The fastest time in modern history.

In the Category 4-5 Masters Class, Barney Brown of FT Willimas took this win in a record time of 1:09:03, Santino Castillo took 2^nd, while Albert Conorquie Sr. orf Typhoon rounds out the top 3. on the female side, newcomer, Kirah Eiley of team Moze Cycling took top honours in 1:25:47, Anthea Sutherland finished 2^nd and Shalini Zabaneh settled for 3^rd. We now look forward to the New Year’s Day Cycle Classic sponsored by Krem.

Turning to the football scene, the FFb Inter-District Championship series kicked off yesterday inside the Ricalde Stadium as Libertadores played host to World FC of Cayo. It’s the home team with the opportunity to get on to the scoreboard first when Jamal Martinez gets this open look at goal from point blank range a minute in only to be deified by a fingertip save from goalkeeper Shawn Lopez. A couple minutes later, Clifton West finds himself at the right place at the right time and his right foot push gives Libertadores a 1-zip lead. Folks we’re at the 11^th minute when Joel Guzman slices this perfect pass to Julian Maldonado who comes up with a wicked left foot push to tie the ballgame at 1 apiece. Maldonado then looks for his 2^nd goal on this volley that fails to give World FC the lead.

At the other end, Ardon Budna displays good range form outside the 18, but his wonderful strike is kept out of the goal by an impressive save from Shawn Lopez who really had to extend himself. 38 minutes in Miguel Aguilar comes up with this left foot slice that dangles inside the net as World FC takes a 2-1 lead. The home team look for the reply off this set piece but again the intervention by Shawn Lopez is successful.

We go to 2^nd half and immediately Clifton West gets his chance to tie the score but pulls the left foot outside the sticks and knows he should have done better. New here is an interesting play; Elliot Bermudez works his way to the penalty area only to end up gifting the pill to goalkeeper Keron Swazo. However whent his long distance dial from Julian Maldonado bounces off the near upright, Miguel Aguilar pounces with the right foot for his 2^nd goal of the match to five the visitors a 3-1 lead and the Libertadores reaction shows that their will might have been broken right here.

At the 77^th minute, things really nose dive for the home team when poor defensive play gives possession to Miguel Aguilar who gives World FC a 3 goal cushion with his 3^rd of the match. In extra time, Shannon Defour picks up this loose ball and fires a right foot shot that gives World FC a 5-1 Big Win.

The scene now shifts to the Norman Broaster Stadium for the final match of the series and Libertadores must come up with 4 goal margin of win first to force overtime. In other football news, Caribbean Cup play over the weekend saw San Felipe Barcelona handle the BDF in a 2-1 score, Griga United blanked Belmopan Blaze 1-zip and Toledo Ambassadors edged FC Belize 4-3.

Finally folks, here are the winners from the Belize Amateur Athletic Association races held on the Western Highway, yesterday. Leon O’Brien wins the male 10K, Ajahny Carr tool the female 10K, Alexander Alvarado was winner in the male 5K while Ashantie Carr was the female winner. Ajani Vaughan took the male 5o meters, Aaliyah Carr won the female 50 meters. Ajani Vaughan won the Male 150 meters with Aaliyah Carr taking the female 150 meters. Ajani Carr emerged with the win for the female junior 150 meters. The next race is set for January 1^st, 2011.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley

James Adderley with the smashing weekend in Sports

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The road to the F.F.B. Inter-District Football Championship screeched to its conclusion yesterday inside the Norman Broaster Stadium as World FC played host to Libertadores of Corozal. Of course, Libertadores would have had to win by a 5 goal margin to claim the title after last week’s capitulation to the Cayo Team in a 5-1 rout at the Ricalde Stadium. Nevertheless, the visitors came in looking for the miracle but World FC in the opening minute of play set the pace with this monster right foot strike from outside the 18 that forces Keron Swaso into a spectacular save. In fact, the Cayo team almost opened the scoreboard off this ensuring corner kick that Jamaal Martinez should have headed into the net.

However, it’s the Libertadores who strike at the 8^th minute of play when Clifton West’s strike at goal beats the keeper. Felipe Guy reached the loose ball 1^st and smacks it home to keep the championship dream alive. 5 minutes later, Elliot Bermudez outruns the Libertadores defense only to bungle the finish in a one to one situation against Swaso. Talk about intensity people, the Corozal team gets three opportunities to make it a 2-nil ballgame on this press only to walk away empty handed. We’re some 24 minutes in when Keron Swaso fails to intercept this ball in the air because of tardiness—Jamaal Martinez then tries to make the clearance only to come up with the auto goal and we have a tied ballgame. Meanwhile, Felipe Guy gets a second chance to impress the scoreboard and return the lead to Libertadores but it’s obvious the left foot lets him down.

Ok guy gets another crack at it when Clifton West finds him on the right side and this time he misjudges the pill and at the half, we’ve got a 1 all stalemate. Some 15 minutes after intermission, Clifton West launches this dangerous header that bounces outside the far upright. For certain national Team player Clifton West is the man on Libertadores and here he demonstrates why as he fires this left foot into the far corner of the goal to make it a 2-1 ballgame. However, 5 minutes later, the World FC Captain, Joseph Waight stumbles into the goal with the ball to tie the match at 2 apiece and the dream begins to face for Libertadores.

Meanwhile, the home team regains the momentum and Jamaal Martinez goes for the spectacular with the bicycle kick but its right at Jamil McKoy. Everald Bodden then gets this chance to move the scoreboard in favor of World FC but embarrasses himself at the finish. In the waning moments of this ballgame, Miguel Aguilar who had the hat trick in last week’s outing crushes this header into the net for the 3-2 World FC big Win. So World FC winds the 2010 F.F.B. Inter-District Championship with an aggregate of 8 goals to 3 over a worthy opponent—Libertadores—we say congratulations and must add that this Cayo Team looks good. They get $5000 and trophies for this success.

Speaking of the F.F.B. folks, the much anticipated election for President of this FIFA affiliated organization that runs football in Belize is set for this Saturday out the F.F.B. Belmopan Headquarters on Saturday, December 18^th. We tried to get Sergio Chuc of the Belize Premier Football League who was to challenge the current president Dr. Bertie Chimilio, but he wasn’t answering his phone.

We spoke to Dr. Chimilio who informed us that Chuc will be ineligible to run because his nomination has not been seconded by any other football organization. Thus it is more than likely that Dr. Bertie Chimilio will return for an unprecedented 4^th term. Dr. Bertie was unable to accept our invitation for an interview today here at Channel Five. Maybe we’ll try again tomorrow.

In other football news, Caribbean Motor Cup results from over the weekend shows that Belmopan Blaze consumed Hankook Verdes 4-1. Toledo Ambassadors blanked Griga United 2-zip and the BDF marched our FC Belize in a 2-1 affair.

We also have this news from Los Angeles. The L.A. Warriors under Manager, Charles Hogan, blanked Brazil CDC4, 1-zip at Griffith Park Stadium to claim this year’s soccer title. This Belizean unit now becomes the winningest football team in LA for the 30 years on this particular tournament. You might recognize Malaki Nolberto and Sylvian Lyons on this puicture and it’s good to see Belizean football still going strong in L.A.

In basketball news, the Central Division Champion emerged last week at the Civic Centre. On the girl’s side, Gwen Liz swept Wesley College 3 straight in the best of 5 series, concluding the competition on Friday with a 44-32 Win over Wesley that saw Glenda Torres strike for 20 points, 15 rebounds and Anna Pinto put up 10 points. In male play, Sadie Vernon also wrested the Central Division Title in 3 straight completing the sweep on Friday in an 83-74 final score. Kashief Thomas led the way with 33 points while Matthew Young scored the game high of 42 points in a losing effort. The national tournament now comes up on the 17^th and 18^th of December at the Civic Centre so stay tuned.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

“To the victor goes the spoils;” James Adderley with winners in sports

Good evening I am James Adderley with this week’s dish of Sports Monday.

On Saturday at Belmopan, the Football Federation of Belize endorsed Dr. Bertie Chimilio as President of this FIFA affiliated body by a 7 to 1 vote with the Belize Premier Football league being the only dissenting vote. The National Sports Council had warned that it would not accept this process by which Dr. Chimilio has been awarded a 4^th consecutive term as president. We spoke to him by telephone earlier today.

James Adderley

“Doctor Bertie, I know that there was a whole lot of opposition to not only your presidency, but the means by which you were elected for this fourth time. Maybe you could give us a comment about that?”

Dr. Bertie Chimilio, President, F.F.B.

“Well if I should start by using the comment from the Honorable Boots Martinez, “Don’t worry about the noise of the market, check your change.”

And I think the people who are making noise, like everything else in politics, when you are opposed to somebody and you have to make all the necessary noises they need for them to be heard. And fortunately for us and for football, they were not heard.”

James Adderley

“You will admit though that it will be rather difficult to work with the present governmental sporting structure in place at this time?”

Dr. Bertie Chimilio

“On the contrary James, I don’t share that thought of yours. The sports op is the same, the system is the same, government has never contributed to football so there will be nothing different.”

James Adderley

“Well the new Minister of Sport has certainly come out against you. This is what I was referring to.”

Dr. Bertie Chimilio

“That’s nothing new, it’s not the first time. I’ve been here for ten years doing that James. They all come against me and unfortunately, they don’t want to learn how the system works, they want to come with sentiments and we just got to do what you got to do. It’s all about the kids, it’s all about the future of this country in football.”

James Adderley

“So how does Doctor Bertie Chimilio and the F.F.B. move forward now?”

Dr. Bertie Chimilio

“We are moving forward. We have to do what we have to do, put our plans in place, look for our finances and move on.”

Turning to basketball scene, The National High School Basketball Tournament staged over the weekend inside the Civic Center found Sadie Vernon of Belize City in the male championship game against Georgetown Technical High School. At the tip off its #6 Charles Armstrong of Sadie Vernon jumping against Wasani Flores of Georgetown and we’re underway. The 1^st field goal of the match comes from Georgetown’s Wasani Flores who picks up the botched effort fro Sheldon Vicente and nails the put back. Sadie Vernon replies with a put back of its own when Andrew Ortiz missed, shot is picked up by London Reneau who banks it off the glass. Lindsay Lopez then penetrates between 2 defenders to knock down this difficult runner as the city team jumps to a 3 point lead. It’s Lopez again with the good heed faint that gets him to the glass for 2 more.

Down by 11 in the 1^st quarter Teron Terry sets up Joel major for the three point shot and he knocks it down. However at the end of the 1^st quarter Georgetown is still down 20 to 9. In the 2^nd quarter Sadie Vernon continues to dominate as Kashief Thomas finds Andrew Ortiz baseline and he delivers the bucket. The lead in 12 when #12 Cho takes on Sadie Vernon to sink this tough bucket in traffic and would convert the 3 point play the old-fashioned way. With this foot on the 3 point line Melvin Augustine banks this long deuce to cut the deficit to 8 pts. And we must inform Gilbert Lopez that game officials are an endangered species when he derails into Referee Kisling. Still at the half the lead is back to 11 points.

In the 3^rd Lopez tries to keep his team in the hunt with this individual that yields a bucket. But folks Sadie Vernon would not relinquish its grip on the lead – Peter McKoy finds Andrew Ortiz who finished the play. Nevertheless, Georgetown wouldn’t quit and the three point basket fro Joel Major cut the lead to 6 points and would finish the 3^rd quarter period down by 9. We’re in the final quarter with Andrew Ortiz works his way down low for 2. Kashief Thomas then receives this long pass from Ortiz for the easy bucket. It’s another long pass to Thomas who knows what to do with it. Sadie Vernon goes on to win 74 to 50 to claim the 2010 National High School male Basketball title and we say congratulations.

Turning to the female title match its Gwen Liz of Belize City facing Delille Academy of Dangriga as Kenya Brown faces Shirley Castillo at the tip off – picked up by Glenda Torres who deals to Adrianna Meighan and she sinks the 1^st bucket of the face off. At the other end the Delille reply is automatic when Ethel Martinez gets this runner to fall. But watch Glenda Torres reply in kind for Gwen Liz who lees by 1 at the end of the 1^st. It’s Glenda Torres who breaks the tie in the 2^nd quarter with this nice move to the hoop. Ether Martinez then fires up this long deuce for Dangriga to cut the deficit to 3. Adrianna Meighan adds to the Gwen Liz lead with this nice put back. And indeed Delille Academy has no one on its rooster to handle Glenda Torres who impacted this game in a big way. We’re in the 4^th quarter when Torres hooks up with Kenya Brown and the long deuce in good. Gwen Liz wins this one going away in a 43 to 18 final score. Meanwhile folks we congratulate all 4 teams that made it to the finals. We must single out Glenda Torres who emerged with the Most Valuable female player award. And Kashief Thomas who grabbed male MVP honors – kudos to both athletes.

Channel 5

James Adderley rounds up Sports for 2010

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and we welcome you to this our final edition of Sports Monday for the year 2010.

As we look back over the year that was, we’ve singled out 5 events that have left an indelible mark on the Belizean psyche for one reason or the other. We begin with Dr. Bertie Chimilio, who despite the coming together of his legions of detractors was able to remain president of the Football Federation of Belize for an unprecedented 4^th consecutive term.

In 2010, Dr. Chimilio had his easy win yet after the only challenger, Sergio Chuc of the Belize Football League was found ineligible to stand for election after not having his nomination for the post of president of the FFB seconded by another football association. Thus, Dr. Chimilio was ratified to repeat by a 2 to 1 vote some 2 weeks ago. While he will not be remembered fondly by the majority of the football community, he has proven that he is able to survive even under direct fire. Of course we must remind you that the saga continues.

Meanwhile, Greg Lovell finished 5^th in the 2010 Cross Country Cycle Classic which was won by a foreigner and in fact, Greg didn’t do so well this year on the racing calendar with only one win. However, Gregory Lovell has written his name into the history books by becoming the 1^st Belizean cyclist to complete the oad race in a commonwealth becomes setting when he finished 2^nd among the riders from this hemisphere. Lovell’s only win this year came in the Alpheus Williams Cycle Classic to make it 3 wins in a row.

We turn now to Giovanni Choto who won the 2010 Lionman Triathlon ending the domination of the Guatemalan athletes who had captured the previous three. Fortunately or unfortunately, Choto just happened to be at the right place at the right time. The Guatemalans couldn’t attend the 2010 meet because of a scheduling problem and Choto made the most of their absence with a marvellous performance that gave him the Lionman title.

As we head back to the football scene, we feel secure in the knowledge that we have moved into positive territory. A football team coming from the Southside of Belize City amazed the world in 2010 by winning the Super League National Football Title from among the 10 teams that started. Yes, the city might, at this time, appear gang infested and crime ridden, however Raymond Gentle and the City Boys rose above their environment to become champions and this is a story that must be told. There are serious lessons to be learned from this outstanding achievement.

Finally a man stepped out of shadows to engineer the return of amateur boxing to the Belizean landscape. Leopold Smart never did give up hope in his quest to bring back this sport. In 2010, he made the right moves and involved the right people to stage a successful fight card against a Mexican contingent even when the chips were down. Smart did not close down his gym and in many instances had to use money out of his meagre resources to keep going. A humble and dedicated Belizean, Leopold Smart is one to emulate. Smart Gym will be back in action on February 15^th, 2010 inside the Belize Biltmore Plaza and Hotel.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

James Adderley breaks down the weekend sporting news

Good evening I’m James Adderly bursting out another portion of Sport’s Monday.

The foot community of Belize might be in disarray at this time but it certainly did not prevent the National Football Team as selected by the recently ratified Football Federation of Belize from competing in the Copa Centro Americano being staged by UNCAF at Panama. At stake is a pass to CONCACAF’s Gold Cup, a competition that Belize has never qualified to participate in, despite numerous attempts.

We’re inside the Estadio Roumel Fernandez Friday night as out National Team opens against the host team and defending champion Panama. Very quickly the Panamanians go offensive as this center off the right wing provides the perfect opportunity to open the scoreboard but Robert Brown blows it.

It’s Panama fully in control when Belize gets this opportunity against the run of play as David McCauley fires this potent right foot bomb that is handles by goal keeper Jaime Ponodo. We’re 21 minutes in when Ricardo Bulfrago finds Edwin Aguilar with this corner kick and the header gives Panama a 1-zip lead. 7 minutes later poor defensive positioning by the Black Jaguars allows Panama to have their way inside the box and Roberto Brown beats Shane Orio to make it a 2-zip score and no folks – its not an offside goal.

Brown then gets the opportunity for a 2^nd goal when Aguilar sets him up perfectly but this time Shane Orio denies the Panamanian. Orio would be asked to make much more saves in this one. At the half the Jewel in down 2-zip. When the action resumes Adolfo Mechado picks out Brown with this long throw in but Orio goes to work. At the other end Orlando Jimenez gets this ball into the deeper zone and for a 2^nd time in the match Deon McCauley fails to convert a scoring opportunity. Of course Shane Orio continues to work hard in defense of Belize goal. On this play, Orio is well positioned in goal and he does make the save. Panama goes on to post the 2-zip victory and while we didn’t win, we were not disgraced.

We now check in on last night’s match against El Salvador and again Belize fall victim to a poor start. We’re only 15 minutes in when William Romero gets this pass off the left wing to beat Shane Orio and open the scoreboard. Nevertheless enjoy this fine save from Shane Orio as Romero aims for the far post off the set piece. Right off the subsequent corner kick Orio has to make another big time save and we do dodge a bullet right here. Make it 2 nil when the defense fails to clear this ball that Rafael Burgos pounces on to shake the net at the 25^th minute.

At the other end Daniel Jimenez threads this ball to Deon McCauley and indeed he should have pulled one back right here. Meanwhile off this corner kick launched by Elroy Smith Belize gets a penalty call but the cameras didn’t pick it up. Smith, the designated penalty kicker steps up and Belize gets on the scoreboard, the 1^st goal for Belize in the tournament. At the half the score is 2 to 1 in favor of El Salvador.

Check this out folks, we’re only 17 seconds into the 2^nd half when Rafael Burgos beats the defense down field and he makes it a 3-1 ballgame. At the 54^th minute, Jaime Alas catches up with this center off the right wing and Salvador goes up to 4 to 1. 5 minutes later Alas turns provides for Doris Umanyor who makes it a 5-1 score. At the 76^th minute Belize pulls one back off this set piece as Elroy Smith finds Orlando Jimenez whose header makes it a 5-2 ballgame and that’s the way it ended.

Belize now faces Nicaragua tomorrow to conclude its schedule at the Copa Centro Americano. Win, lose or draw, I’m a Belizean – but I ain’t holding my breath.

Turning to the cycling scene the Belie Cycling Association presented the first Saturday race on the 2011 calendar featuring 49 riders that included elite and masters. They’re off… The Jr. Riders side 17 riders participated in the 26 mile ride from Belize City to Hattieville and back. By the time we reach outside the turn around point at Hattieville, the break has been established by this 12 man break which includes Mark Staine, Wilbert Jones, Deandi Ordonez, Geon Hanson, Tariq Cano, Raymond Hyde, Darnell Barrow, Michael Lewis, Santi Castillo and George Abraham Jr. Of course the chase group lead by Gregory Lovell remains within striking distance.

The break remains solid as they hug the curve that will lead them right back to the city. A minute 6 seconds behind the chase group make its grand entrance around the curve. Around mile 3 we find a depleted lead pack now only featuring Abraham Jr., Cano, Lewis, Staine, Hanson, Ordonez and Santi Castillo. We’re at the finish line in front of Leslie’s Imports and the sprint is already into full swing. On the right side of your screen Hanson grabs the lead momentarily but had to give way Deandi Ordonez – both riders get off their saddle for the big push and its Deandi Ordonez of C. Ray who grabs the big win.

In a race that averaged 24.6 M.P.H Geon Hanson of Indeco settles for 2^nd, Mark Staine of Benny’s Megabytes takes 3^rd while Santino the chief Castillo impresses with his 4^th place finish and Big Mike Lewis riding unattached rounds out the top 5.

On the Jr. side here is Joel Borland of team Indeco winning this class in uncontested fashion in a time of 1:14:19. Zahir Figueroa of Cayo Uprising rolls in unchallenged for 2^nd. Now here’s the heated sprint for 3^rd place and it’s Cattouse with the blaze of speed to take that position. Incidentally folks, no prizes were issued because the race was not completed under an hour as demanded by the BCA. So, the Saturday races continue this weekend of January 22^nd and the next big event comes up on February 13^th to the 16^th annual DigiCell Valentines Cycle Classic.

In basketball news, Saturday win the senior competition at Orange Walk King Ballers edged ballers 71 to 67 as Randy usher led the way with 26 points while Ian Carcamo added 15 points in the win. Calbert Carcamo hit 19 and Brandon McKoy 14 points in the loss. In Games II, Top Shattas burned Nothern Uprising 56 to 54.

In closing folks, we give a shout out to our boy Rosdele Ellis, a member of the Washington DC Legend hall and a former football great in Belize. Buya then folks that’s our show.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

Sports Monday’s weekend stats with James Adderley

Good evening I’m James Adderly and this is sports Monday.

The Belize District Basketball Association U-17 and U-15 competitions blasted off inside the Civic Center Friday and indeed the fans were not ready for the monster package of excitement that would have been unwrapped.

We pick up the action in the 1^st quarter of the U-15 opener as Roderick Williams displays his skills to strike for 3pts the old fashioned way as Rising Stars extends its lead over Deacon to 4pts. Williams would lead his team with a magnificent 2 double of 18pts 20 rebounds.

In the 2^nd quarter Deacon comes back. Auburn Rivero comes up with the steal and finds Raheem Trumback who moves his man out of the way for 2pts.

At the other end Kenyon Evans fires right back for rising Stars with 2 of his 11 game points.

And at the half Rising Stars show a 25 to 23 lead.

Down by 5 in the 3^rd, Deacon gets a left when Auburn Rivero picks up this loose ball which he converts for 2 – Rivero would lead all scorers with 21pts.

In the 4^th Deacon tries to hang but Rodrick Williams does enough o propel his team to a 55-48 big W.

Meanwhile the U-17 nightcap between Wildcats 17 and Complex was even more competitive and Kadeem Olivera sets the pace with this big 3 pointer in the opening minutes. He would tally 25pts.

The Wildcats, Alexander Ellis then makes this individual effort for 2 of his 17pts tonight. At the end of the 1^st Complex leads 20-15.

In the 2^nd we find Ryan Michael leading Complex as he picks the pocket of Malcolm Griffith and goes all the way for 2 of his 49 game points. Michael would hit 23 of 34 free throws to put up all of 49pts in this outing.

Nevertheless this put back by Vhuru McKoy pulls Wildcats to within 2pts and he would lead his team with 23pts.

However, it’s Inary Enriquez who ties the ballgame at 35pts apiece by going glass. Enriquez would put up 11pts in this one.

Zane Morris would then give Wildcats a 37-35 lead at the half with this uncontested bucket. Morris would strike for 15pts.

Folks the remainder of the game would be tit for tat, butter for fish, – Vhuru McKoy hits for the Wildcats.

Ryan Michael replies for Complex.

At the end of the 3^rd we’re tied at 61pts apiece.

This is how this one gets settled people: Ryan Michael hits 2 free throws to pull Complex to a 1pt deficit.

At the other end, Ellis Alexander hits 1 of 2 to give the Wildcats a 2pt. lead.

And this is the final play of the match – Complex fails to get off a shot in the remaining 9 seconds and they fall 86 to 84.

On Sunday’s card SJC Wildcats got bombed 49 to 39 by Blazin Blazers.

Kruzzars crushed Belama Ballaz 71 to 54.

In the U-15 match Rising Stars handles Playa in a 76-64 final score.

Tonight at the Civic Center ACC Deacon will face YMCA and Ladyville goes to work against SJC Wildcats.

Turning to the canoeing score with 2011 La Ruta Maya set for March 4^th to 7^th the pre-races have begun and we’re inside Burrell Boom on Saturday for the start of the race to Manatee Lookout. With the signal from the starting gun the river comes alive powered by human energy.

And folks maybe some people just don’t get it – you’ve got to be in the boat to compete.

At the Burrell Boom Bridge the 2010 champion Ziprider is in the lead being chased by last year’s runner up the Belize Bank and the Citrus Products Ltd, followed by NICH.

For some the adventure or the experience might be today’s motivation as we see Sean, The Wet Legend, misfits short of a paddler, Big Bad Dan while the nameless ones bring the rear.

We’re here at the finish at Manatee Lookout and it’s a 3-way sprint with Ziprider, the Belize Bank and NICH.

From our picture it appears the Belize Bank is the winner – unfortunately they were penalized for lane violation giving the win to Ziprider and the Bank has to settle for 2^nd, NICH paddles in 3^rd and CPL rounds out the top 4. Folks if this leg of the race is exciting what do you think will happen when the big one blasts off on March 4^th.

In football news Caribbean Motor Cup play over the weekend saw Toledo Ambassadors blank FC Belize 3-zip to move with a 4-1 aggregate while the BDF shutdown San Felipe Barcelona with a 6-2 volley for an 8-3 aggregate. The championship series begins this Sunday at the Toledo Union Field.

In other football news the Super League kicked off its 1^st division season with a marathon package on Sunday and while we have footage the stats eluded us at press time. However we do know Brown Bombers took the marathon by beating Atlantic Bank in the finals.

In the cycling scene for a 3^rd week in a row the BCA Saturday race from Belize City to Hattieville – some 26 miles was no completed in less than an hour – so the pot continues to build. David Henderson of team Indeco took top honors in 1hr 5mins 55secs beating out his teammate Tariq Cano by 1min 17 secs while Melvin Tillett of Santino’s pulled up 3^rd.

Meanwhile several Belize Cycle Teams competed in the Governor’s Cup race at Cozumel over the weekend did pretty good. Jeovani Leslie won the elite ride; Nissan Arana took 2^nd and Brandon Cattouse 4^th, Allen Castillo 5^th.

At the Maters 50 plus level kudos to Santi Castillo who finished 2^nd to become the only Belizean in the top 20 finish. Now that’s an eye opener.

Jah overall, I’m James Adderley.

Sports Guru, James Adderley analyzes the stats from the weekend games James Adderley Good evening I’m James Adderley with this week’s portion of Sports Monday. Folks we’re in front of Leslie’s Imports as the Belize Cycling Association launched its 4th Saturday race in preparation for the mighty cross country classic set to blast off on Holy Saturday. 62 riders are signed up for this 26 mile ride and today the pelathon is intent on beating the 1 hour time limit set by the BCA who remain adamant that no prizes will be issued until this criteria in met. We catch up with the race at the turn around point inside Hattieville and its young Kevin Tillette of Santino’s in control of the blistering pace but as you can see the entire pelathon remains on his heels. At mile 5, we’ve still got a compact unit as the bid to beat the time limit mounts. We’re now at the tape for a monster field sprint. The speedster Gregory Lovell grabs the lead; the challenge comes from Chris McNish, Jeovani Leslie and Byron Pope but Lovell lives up to his reputation to give Zamis the big W, McNish of Benny’s Megabytes holds on to 2nd, Jeovani Leslie of Santino’s settles for 3rd, Byron Pope of Megabytes pulls up 4th while Jairo Campos of team typhoon rounds out the top 5. In the meantime folds for a 4th time in a row our riders have been unable to complete the 26 mile ride in less than 1 hour. Saturday’s race was clocked at 1:00:42 secs and while it’s the closes they’ve been, the riders still do not deserve any prize according to the Association. Meanwhile the next big race come sup thus Sunday February 13th and it’s the 16th running of the DigiCell Valentine Cycle Classic. Public Relations Officer for the B.C.A., Kwame Scott, provides the details. Kwame Scott, Public Relations Officer, Belize Cycling Association Kwame Scott “It will be three races, five categories—the juniors, masters, four, five and females will be riding from Central Farm to Belize City one way; while the elite riders will be riding from the San Ignacio Hotel head west to the Benque Border, make a U-turn and head all the way back to Belize City. All three races will finish at Leslie’s Imports near mile one and a half on the Western Highway.” James Adderley “Will the Saturday races being staged by the Belize Cycling Association have an impact on this valentine Classic in terms of time because I am very impressed by the time limit set by the association?” Kwame Scott “Well quite honestly, the Saturday races are more for speed and they are mainly ridden on the flats. If you notice this race on Sunday, the elite race starts in the hills and then it comes unto the flat. Remember we are all gearing up for the cross country race which is basically starting and finishing within Belize City so we are heading unto that same course and our goal is to have our riders prepared for the twenty-third of April which is the Holy Saturday Cross Country Classic.” James Adderley “Who would be the favorite going into Sunday’s ride?” Kwame Scott “Let me just mention that the defending champion is Marlon Castillo and Team Zamir from the north took the top positions last year, however going into this year’s race, I am not sure who would be the favorites, however we do have Shane Vasquez who performed well on New Year’s Day, we have Gregory Lovell who seems to be one of the fastest guys at the finish line and we also have the host of Choto brothers, we have most of our riders are young. We have Nissan Arana, we have Byron Pope and of course we’ll be having some foreigners in the race who also add some spice.” In other cycling news, Santino Castillo continues to impress by winning Saturday’s 41 mile Weekend Warrior race from a field of 43 riders. Alton Richie Jr. took 2nd while Charlie Slusher stepped up to 3rd place. Turning to the football scene, the Super League kicked off its Belize City 1st Division Tournament inside the MCC Grounds and we caught up with Saturday’s match-up between Marathon Champion Brown Bombers and Atlantic Bank. We’re 17 minutes in and Atlantic Bank is already down 2-nil when Jorge Estrada finds Rudolph Matura and he pulls one back for the bank by sticking with the play. Early into 2nd half action, the Bombers Germaine Loster tries this left foot that bounces off the crossbar. At the other end Wilmer Lunes gets this chance to tie the ballgame but instead unleashes a high riser. The Bombers continue to press so Mark Zuniga deals to Tyronne Muschamp who misses the target from point blank range. Again Atlantic Bank gets to tie the score when Albert Sesiena beats his man and fires this right foot but its right at the keeper. Folks, good teamwork pay dividends for the Brown Bombers, when Tyronne Muschamp deals to Francisco Briceño who finds Mark Zuniga and his right foot punch makes it a 3-1 ballgame at the 62nd minute. Talk about poor defensive play, Briceño’s center should have been easily cleared by Melvin Orlando instead he gifts this ball to Tyronne Muschamp who powers it home for the 4-1 big W. In other action over the weekend West Lake and Atlantic Insurance battled to a 3-3 stalemate while Yabra FC overwhelmed Kings Park FC in a 5-1 rout. This Saturday’s schedule finds KHMH in action against Kelly Street, Yabra FC clashes with City Boys United and Brown Bombers take aim at Ebony Lake. In other football news the Toledo Ambassadors and the Belize Defense Force settled for a 2-2 finish yesterday at Toledo of Game II for the Caribbean Motors Cup now moves to the Norman Broaster Stadium. Turning to the Harrison Parks Cricket scene, Elvis Moody proved to be the big man in Saturday’s showdown between Bright Star of Sandhill and Brilliance of Crooked Tree. Moody battled in a game high of runs and then on defense he mowed down 4 wickets as Bright Star beat Brilliance 184-161 runs. Jermaine Smith of the Crooked Tree Team had an impressive outing leading his team with 55 runs batted in while Rodwell Conorquie stouch for 3 wickets but in a loosing effort. Meanwhile here are the other results from the Harrison Parks competition. Borland edged Brave Union 80 to 72. Surprise took the Police 122-121. Western Eagles mauled Sunrise 177 to 64. St. Paul’s Sailo’s hurt wicked 11 123 to 120. Isabella Uprising handled Unfinished Business 98 to 64 and Easy Does It handled Excellence 159 to 157 with 5 wickets to spare. Channel 5

James Adderley with the latest Sports Statistics

Good evening I’m James Adderly and this is Sports Monday.

The 16^th Annual DigiCell Valentine’s Cycle Classic proved to us that cyclists are a special breed of athletes who never say quit. Some 83 elite riders were at the starting line inside San Ignacio for yesterday’s 81 mile ride despite a ferocious attack launched by Mother Nature that brought down an incessant rain and very cold temperatures. This increased the risk of read accidents, big time spills and even exposed the riders to serious illness. Fortunately for all involved Jah is merciful and there were no major incidents.

As the race leaves the San Ignacio Hotel and heads to the turn around point at the Benque Viejo Border Station, the rain comes down with a vengeance but the show goes on as it must in cycling.

Alas folks, our motorcycle died on us which put us out of action.

However, we caught up back with the event around Hattieville when the Guatemalan Lysandro Acu, rider for Team Santino, had already made his move for a solo flight to the finish line around mile 29.

So we’re at Leslie’s Imports when Acu rolls in uncontested to win this years Valentine’s Classic is 3 hours, 28 minutes and 36 seconds eclipsing the record time set by Ernest Meighan of 3 hours, 35 minutes and 3 seconds.

It was a good day for Team Santino because Darnell Barrow was truly impressive to out sprint Jose Choto to take 2^nd place in a time of 3:29:33 and Darnell begins to look like the cyclist he should be. Of course Jose Choto takes 3^rd and Marlon Castillo of Zamir’s rolls in for 4^th place.

Lysandro Acu, Winner, 16th Annual Digicell Valentine’s Cycle Classic

“Basically, he’s been coming here for many years and he wanted this victory and he looks for opportunities anywhere they present themselves—whether in the beginning, the middle or the end—and this oen preented itself right at the very spot where he thought he coudl take it from there.”

Darnell Barrow, 2nd Place Winner, 16th Annual Digicell Valentine’s Cycle Classic

“I mean with this second i feel more motivated right now. I mean I barely trained, gained like fifteen pounds, struggling a lot, but i feel like with this second i could pull off wah lee something for Cross Country.”

In the Woman’s Class Shalini Zabaneh of Sagitun continued as the dominant force sweeping all station prizes and winning yesterday in 2 hours, 54 minutes and 11 seconds beating out Gina Lovell by over 5 minutes while Alicia Thompson of Belize Bank rode in 3^rd.

James Adderley

“Tell us about today’s race and how you just breezed through to the big W?”

Shalini Zabaneh

“I wouldn’t say I breezed through it. When we race with the men, I think I have an advantage over the other girls because I consider myself a little bit stronger than then when it comes to racing with the men. So once I can hang in with the men, I get a gap on the girls, I’ll be able to cruise to the line.”

James Adderley

“Anytime you come out, you take the number one spot. I think we will have to make a monument of you. You are becoming a living monument before our eyes.”

Shalini Zabaneh

“That would be nice. [laughs]”

The Jr. winner yesterday was Kyle Gentle of Cayo High Road with a time of 2:45:30, Austin Armstrong was forced into 2^nd place and Aiden Juan finished 3^rd with all 3 clocked with the same time.

For sure it was a good day for Team Santino as Ernest Meighan grabbed the 4/5 Masters Class in 2:49 beating Michael Lewis in the sprint while David Balam pulled up 3^rd 20 seconds later.

At the youth level Aiden Juan beat out Marcus Lewis and Giovanni Lovell in that order to take Top Honors.

Meanwhile folks the La Ruta Maya 2011 comes up from March 4^th to 7^th so the organizers presented the last of its scheduled races over the weekend and 29 boats made the journey from Burrell Boom to Gallon Jug Lumber Yard here in Belize City and its always exciting to witness the start.

Of course cream always rises and immediately the defending champion Zip Rider and former champion Belize Bank quickly and efficiently grab control of today’s pace, followed by CPBL, Cobb’s Arm and Watius.

And as usual some paddlers simply will not stay put in their canoe.

Zip Rider is the first to clear the Haulover Bridge area but Belize Bank remains within striking distance and NICH has stepped up to command 3^rd place.

Trying to hand on to the grueling pace is Cobb’s Arm.

Agro Tech makes a gallant effort to stay with the big boys while CPBL continues to loose ground.

So we’re at the finish line at Gallon Jug Lumber Yard.

And we see Zip Rider clearing the Belcan Bridge unchallenged.

As they stroke their way to a 2^nd win in a row with a time of 2 hours, 32 minutes 30 seconds.

It’s all of 2 minutes later that Belize Bank shows up to take 2^nd place.

NICH hangs on to 3^rd place.

An improved Cobb’s Arm has to settle for 4^th, while Agro Tech rounds out the top 5.

Folks, all we can say is that the 2011 edition promises to bring the keenest competition possible.

Turning to the football scene, the Super League Belize City 1^st Division tournament continues to roll inside the MCC Grounds and we caught up with the internecine struggle between Yabra FC and City Boys United on Saturday.

The 1^st real chance at the goal comes from City Boys when Kareem Williams attacks off the left corner of the net but misses the target.

At the other end Gilroy Thurton moves to his man out of the way only to launch a high rising left foot shot.

5 minutes later Thurton gets another opportunity to put Yabra FC on the scoreboard first but up squandering a golden opportunity.

Meanwhile folks, despite the fact that everybody’s sporting the color blue the referee is able to pick out this hand foul inside the 18 by the City Boys defender and rules penalty.

Dalton Cayetano, a former City Boys forward steps up for Yabra and gives his new tam a 1-zip lead 25 minutes in.

Now watch Jack Dawson penetrate into the defensive area of Yabra but is taken down by Norman Bonnel and again it’s a penalty ruling by the referee.

Mark Grant steps up for City Boys and easily beats the keeper to knot the ballgame at 1 apiece 40 minutes in.

2 minutes later, City Boys keeper Eric Gilharry commits this unforced error and Dalton Cayetano makes him pay with his 2^nd goal of the match as Yabra takes a 2-1 lead.

Don’t blink folks because here comes the kick off – Kareem Williams deals to Jack Dawson and his long shot, a goal somehow embarrasses the goal keeper and gets 2 goal keeping errors and 3 goals in 3 minutes as we go to intermission tied at 2 apiece.

In 2^nd half play neither team did enough to score another goal or warrant the big W as things settled into a 2-2 stalemate. In other results from Week II KHMH Authority and Kelly St. rallied to a 0-0 draw and Ebony Lake shook up Brown Bombers is a 2-1 score.

Week III come sup on Saturday with Atlantic Insurance facing City Boys. West Lake takes aim at King’s Park FC and Atlantic Bank goes to work against Ebony Lake.

In other football news, the Belize Defense Force beat the Toledo Ambassadors 2-zip at the Norman Broaster Stadium yesterday to claim their 3^rd consecutive Caribbean Motor Cup title.

Now here’s this note on basketball, the UB Basketball Team was in Chetumal over the weekend for a couple of friendlies against Manaties of Chetumal inside the Palacio de los Deportes.

On Saturday they routed the host team 82-37 and then on Sunday extended their margin of win by 8, beating Manaties 90 to 37.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

James Adderley Sports update on cycling, football and karate

Good evening I’m James Adderly and we welcome you to this fresh dish of Sport’s Monday.

For a 5^th time the elite cyclists of this nation took aim at breaking the 1 hour limit set by the Belize Cycling Association to finish the 26 mile ride to Hattieville and back would Saturday February 19^th make a difference or would our best riders again blame it on the rain. And they’re off on the slippery and treacherous surface we call the Western Highway.

Of course the rain excuse does appear legitimate as the downpour make its presence felt immediately into the ride.

Around mile 12, Glen O’Brien of Zamir gambles on a solo flight after extricating himself from the pack.

And this move takes him to the turnaround point at Hattieville in an unchallenged fashion.

However, the main pelathon does remain within striking distance while others are let go.

It’s a brand new configuration on the way back when the pelathon returns to a compact formation and yes people the rain continues to up the degree of difficulty.

So we fast forward to the finish for a mighty field sprint and it’s Darnell Barrow of Santino’s in the middle of the pack that makes the big move.

The challenge comes from Erwin Middleton of Indeco but for a 2^nd week in a row Darnell Barrow displays his star quality to grabbing the big W in a time of 1hr 3 mins and 38 secs. Middleton settles for 2^nd, Devon Medwood of Clear the Land finishes 3^rd; Sherman Thomas of Team Police takes 4^th place while Brian Lopez of Indeco rounds out the top 5. Of course the time limit was not met so we look forward to week 6 and maybe then the riders will qualify for prizes.

In the meantime we say congratulations to Erwin Middleton of Indeco for taking the U-23 win and Sherman Thomas of Team Police who emerged the Masters Champion.

At the Jr. Class, Deezan Spence of Twin towers beats out Giovanni Lovell of Indeco and Austin Armstrong in that order to take the Jr. Classification. They were times at 1hr 9 mins 56 secs.

Checking the Weekend Warriors scene, Saturday’s race was won by Amir Gonzalez – Geffrey Waight took 2^nd and Ramon Morales finished 3^rd. Luke Usher then out sprinted the pack to grab 4^th place.

Meanwhile folks, the Belize Cycling Association next big event is set for the 13^th March and it’s the 30^th edition of the Annual Belmopan Cycling Classic which covers some 100 miles. Peter Choto goes in as defending champion.

We now turn to the Karate scene as the Belize Elite Karate Team under Mester Kelly hosted the Mexico Taekwondo Team under Coach Torres in a Belize vs. Mexico format inside the Belize Elementary Auditorium on Saturday. And of course, after the niceties the minute combat begins.

Belize got off to a positive start as Isaac Lumbly hits Jose Angel Mota cleanly to the abdomen to grab the point that gives him the victory.

Jennifer Larrieu was methodical in winning her bout against Yasori Cab with a 9 to 5 score for the win.

Craghan Cleland was able to come back against Deud Malarcon to take what looked like a pretty close combat.

Randy Arana had a tough time against Miguel Barragan but enough to let out the win for Belize.

Jose Diaz floored his man in the 1^st round to overcome Edgar Romero in the 2 rounder to hand the homeland another victory.

Ashton Tasher needed the 3^rd round to prevail against Salvador Ramos and he was up to the task to earn another W for Team Belize.

Basketballer Rupert Brown ran into a brick wall named William Chuayo who picks up Mexico’s 2^nd win in this face-off.

Felix Hernandez was also unable to take his man Andre Perez who took the victory in a 7-5 score.

For certain Carmelita Kuylen was an unstoppable force against Brenda Velez Belmont as she paced herself to a comfortable win while her sibling Carla Kuylen proved to be a deadly head hunter as she pummeled her way to the W.

In the final bout of the day, Dr. Pedro Arriaga was pretty dominant against Moises Vega as he surgically worked his way to the big W.

Thus Belize Elite Karate Team posted a 9-2 record in the eleven matches on a 73 to 56 point margin. The scene now drifts to Chetumal Mexico this Saturday for the rematch.

Finally in football news, play in the Super League Belize City 1^st Division competition on Saturday at the MCC Grounds matched City Boys United against Atlantic Insurance.

Atlantic Insurance take the lead the minute in when Jamal Martinez catches up with this center from off the right wing and heads it home to open scoreboard.

4 minutes into 2^nd half, the Insurance Co. make it 2-zip when Carlos Trestoza centers to Bryan Martinez who gets an easy goal off the goalkeeper’s errant play.

Make it 3-nil when Jamal Martinez out runs the City Boys defense and scores his 2^nd goal of the match.

City Boys final pull one back off this corner kick that Shawn Thurton heads home out the 68^th minute.

2 minutes later Hubert Baptist hands this ball inside the 18 which leads to the penalty call.

Mark Grant steps up and he makes it a 3-2 score.

However, the City Boys comeback falls short when Byron Martinez picks up this ball unattended and he makes it a 4-2 final as Atlantic Insurance posts the W.

In other action on Saturday, West Lake humiliated Kings Park FC in a 12-2 shellacking while Ebony Lake routed Atlantic Bank in a 9-1 blow-out.

This weekend’s schedule at the Barracks finds Brown Bombers aiming at Kelly Street, KHMH hooks up with Ebony Lake and Yabra FC faces Atlantic Insurance.

Folks, the 5^th Annual Belize Bank Super League Tournament kicks off this weekend of February 20^th and 27^th. City Boys United goes in as defending champion.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

Sports Monday with football and cycling winners

Good evening I’m James Adderly and we welcome you to this jam packed serving of Sport’s Monday.

We start off with the opening match of the Belize Bank Super League Football Tournament as the defending champion and now named Raymond Gentle City Boys United hosted Paradise Freedom Fighters of Punta Gorda inside the MCC Ground’s yesterday.

In fact a moment of silence was observed for the fallen leader of the City Boys championship team Raymond Gentle who lost his wife on 12^th January 2011 and as he sleeps, on the show continues.

Make no mistake about it folks it’s a new and improved City Boys that comes out to defend its title and we’re only 3 minutes into the action when newcomer Ryan Simpson receives this pass from off the left side and what a way to start with his new club as he gives them a 1-zip lead.

It should have been 2-zip 2 minutes later when Jason Young picks out Leon Jones but his right away right foot offering rises over the horizontal bar.

The visitors try to reply off this set piece in front of the goal but Alexander Peters line drive screams past the face of the goal.

It’s more Paradise Freedom Fighters when Frank Lopez evades his man to fire this low cruise missile but goalkeeper William Johnson stays on top of things.

We’re some 30 minutes in when Tyrone Muschamp faces Stephen Palacio in a one-on-one situation and the referee rules penalty in what he interprets as a take down by the goal keeper.

International player Deon McCauley steps and finds the near corner for the 2-zip City Boys lead.

Folks we’re some 15 minutes after intermission when Alexander Peters attacks for the Freedom Fighters. Williams Johnson come out to defend his goal – Peters outstretched right foot stamps on Johnson’s right foot and the goal keeper’s foot in broken.

Fortunately, a BERT Ambulance was immediately summoned to minister to the fallen player who was then whistled away to be treated at the KHMH for an injury which not only ends his season but could also end his career, and yes, he is in serious pain.

When the action resumes Tyrone Muschamp beats his man, the ball then reaches Ryan Simpson who moves 2 defenders out of the way and then deals to Deon McCauley who scores his 2^nd of the match as Raymond Gentle City Boys United open a 3-zip W over Paradise Freedom Fighters.

In the other action on opening day Hattieville Monarch and Griga Knights battled to 1-1 stalemate. Placencia Assassin crushed Cayo South United 3 to 1 and Orange Walk United settled for a nil-nil draw.

This week’s schedule find Griga Knights will host Placencia Assassin at the Carl Ramos. Cayo South will visit Hattieville Monarch. Orange Walk United will be inside the People’s Stadium against Paradise Freedom Fighters and it’s an all city clash when Third World FC sees action against City Boys United.

Checking the results of Week 4 in the Super League 1^st Division season at the MCC Grounds, Brown Bombers struck Kelly Street with a 2-zip blast. Ebony Lake edged KHMH Authority 1-zip while Atlantic Insurance and Yabra FC rallied to a 2 all tie.

In the meantime folks, the Delhart Courtney Female Football Tournament as presented by FFB kicked off over the weekend and tournament coordinator Kaya Cattouse filled in the details.

Kaya Cattouse, Coordinator, Delhart Courtney Female Football Tournament

“The competition start this weekend; all the games were played. We have ten teams in the competition from all over the country and the games that were played this Saturday and Sunday were very successful.”

James Adderley

“How long will it last and when can we expect the champion to be won?”

Kaya Cattouse

“Well we foresee this cup lasting until about June or thereabout because the preliminary round is six weeks and after that eight teams will advance into the quarter finals and we’ll do home and away matches go along to the semifinals and then the finals with the two teams.”

Meanwhile folks President Bertie Chimilio of the Football Federation of Belize informed us of the upcoming friendly between Belize and the Cayman Islands.

Bertie Chimilio, President, B.F.F.

“We are now preparing for the World Cup 2014 eliminations [which] will start in September of this year and we’re gonna start that with a first game against Cayman here in Belize on the twenty-seventy of march. We go back to Cayman for the twenty-second of May. Already in the pipeline we have games with El Salvador and Guatemala in the plans, but nonetheless we still have to confirm those games.”

James Adderley

“These are friendlies we’re talking about?”

Bertie Chimilio

“Yeah these are friendlies on the FIFA dates and we want to make sure that come September 2011, we should have at least fifty of our players having played three or four international matches and pick eighteen out of that and ready to confront the world.”

James Adderely

“Who are we matched up with for the frist round of this quail-finals?
Bertie Chimilio

“It’s gonna take a new format James really. The format now is gonna be groups. It’s good for us because we gonna play more games, but it is very, very expensive. We continue to work despite some obstacles being put in the way, but any obstacles that comes we jump by, we jump over and we ask the folks in Belize to come and support this international match.”

Turning to the cycling scene for the 6^th time in a row folks the elite riders of the Belize Cycling Association were unable to complete the 26 mile ride to Hattieville and back under the 1 hour limit. The closest they had been was Greg Lovell’s time of 1 hour 42 seconds.

Nevertheless, 46 riders are off in search of the big W and included are the women cyclist, junior riders and the Masters Class.

At the turn around point a large group has grabbed the pace dividing the pelathon in 2.

In fact, the finish in front of Leslie’s Imports finds a delightful field sprint and it’s Brandon Cattouse who powers out of the pack and grabs his 2^nd big W in the 6 races featured so far – but in a time of 1 hour, 3 minutes and 42 seconds. Byron Pope pulls up 2^nd, Erwin Middleton moved in 3^rd, David Henderson finished 4^th while the veteran Rogue Matus rounds up the top 5.

Now folks, here is the sprint for the Jr. riders and its Gian Zetina with the burst to take it in 1 hour, 12minutws and 25 seconds. Some 8 minutes off the pace set by the senior Giovanni Lovell takes 2^nd but watch Ethan Neal of Twin Towers on the outside going to tap – he takes 3^rd place but is unceremoniously stopped by a parked red pick-up truck which should never have been there – the smashes into the windshield and is badly hurt and has to be taken to the hospital. It’s a situation that should have been under the absolute control of the BCA who have expressed extreme remorse. Fortunately, Ethan experiences no broken bones and has vowed to continue in the sport and Sport’s Monday wishes his valiant Jr. rider a quick and complete recovery. Folks, let’s not see a preventable mishap like this occur again.

Meanwhile Shalini Zabaneh took the women’s class in 1 hour, 3 minutes and 42 seconds finishing with the elites and naturally Rogue Matus takes the Masters prize with that same time of 1 hour, 3 minutes and 42 seconds.

In basketball news, the action in the DigiCell U-17 tournament continues fast and furious. In Friday night’s schedule ACC Deacons had to fight off a strong challenge from All Star Ballers to eek out a 78-74 victory. Terrigue Gabb led the way with 16 points, Jovanie Martinez put up 15 points and Travis Bermudez added 14. For All Star Ballers, Akeem Richardson topped all scores with 19 points; Brandon Harris hits 18 points and Keron Moss stretch for 17 points but in a loosing effort. In other results from the weekend, Belama Hittaz beat Dog Pound Boys 37-25; ACC Deacons shopped YMCO 50-20, Blazin Blazzaz bombed Truckers 51-26, Complex Admiral crushed Caye Caulker 85 to 25 and Kruzzars didn’t say sorry in a 104 to 15 blowout of Seh Sorry.

Finally folks, we want to say heartfelt congratulations to the Belize Karatekas under Master Kelly who competed in the Mexico International Taekwondo championships at Chetumal on Sunday and from a crew of 23 fighters, 4 to 30 years of age, brought back 30 trophies.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

James Adderley’s weekend sports update

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The National Cricket Team has made a dramatic statement in International Cricket by winning the ICC Division 3 Tournament staged at Costa Rica, sweeping all 5 matches in emphatic fashion. On their return to the Jewel Yesterday was filled with excitement, pump and circumstance and a motorcade from the Philip Goldson International Airport.

Belize jumped out last Monday with a 65 to 64 win over Peru with 4 wickets to spare as Howell Gillett claimed 4 wickets to become man of the match while Conway Young batted in 18 runs. Later that day, the National Team routed the Falkland Islands 182 to 50 with man of the match Mcbelt Anthony striking for 5 wickets while Warren Anthony came up with 50 runs. Next to feel the power of the Belizean juggernaut was México who put up a fight on Wednesday but fell 106 to 87 with Keve Usi Flowers mowing down 4 wickets and Derrick Sutherland scoring 27 runs.

Keve Flowers won his second man of the match on Thursday recording 4 wickets as Belize out classed Costa Rica 40 to 39 with all of 7 wickets to spars Conway Young led the offence with 15 runs. Mcbelt Anthony picked up his 2^nd man of the match award in the final outline on Friday when Belize batted in 86 runs with 5wickets to spare to beat Chile 86 to 85—34 of those runs belonged to Anthony. Thus Belize sweeps the tournament in impressive fashion. Conway Young emerged tournament MVP and best wicket keeper and Keve Flowers was voted best bowler. Add in the championship and 4 of the 5 available tournament awards were brought home by a jubilant national team yesterday.

Derrick Sutherland

Derrick Sutherland, Captain, National Cricket Team

“We have played superbly through the five days. The competition was very tough in terms of playing—it was a fast game. It was a 20-overs tournament, not a fifty. So the game was fast and we did well. I would like to express gratitude to the Minister of Sports who has supported us, Mister John Saldivar; Mister Elston Wade, the President of Belize National Cricket Association for again the players especially who have supported me as captain. They have played well and I would like to express gratitude to them. To the villagers of Belize River Valley, we have fought for quite some time and now we have won. This victory again is for them.”

Belize now moves up to Division 2 in the ICC America’s Division and will be tested at this level as early as April 9^th 2011 at Suriname. We say congratulations for a job well done.

Turning to the football; undefeated RG City Boys United took its 3 and record West against a strong Cayo South United playing host at Camalote Football Field. The visiting City Boys look to strike first when Leon Jones centers into the danger zone and only a perfect read by goalkeeper Shawn Lopez prevents Dalton Cayetano from opening the scoreboard. However, it’s the home team with the opening goal when at the 10^th minute. Enrique Tamai picks up this ball launched from the midfield and beats Stanley Reneau for the 1 zip lead.

City Boys looks for the equalizer off this set piece fired by Deon McCauley and again Shawn Lopez intervenes. Now keep your eyes on this corner kick launched by Lemott, Tyronne Muschamp heads it into goal, the keeper is beaten but Joseph Waight hands the ball out of the net which leads to a penalty called and a direct red card. Deon McCauley steps up and easily beats the keeper to tie the ballgame at 1-1 a piece at the 19^th minute. Just a minute later, Ian Gaynier picks out Dalton Cayetano inside the box and Cayetano’s header gives City Boys a 2-1 lead at the 20^th Minute.

This forces the Cayo Team to look for the equalizer and they almost come up with when Scott Casey punches this volley only to see it inch over the crossbar. We’re fresh into 2^nd half when Jason Young gets this good look at goal but is thwarted by a big time save from Shawn Lopez. At the 67^th minute Cayo South gets lucky. Alfonso Guzman mis-kicks in front of goal but gets a 2^nd opportunity to find Enrique Tamai and Tamai unleashes a right foot that ties the ballgame at 2 apiece.

Meanwhile, the game winner for City Boys comes off this set piece outside the eighteen and international player, Deon McCauley guides this ball into the back of the net for the 3-2 big W. City Boys move to a perfect 4 and 0 record, while Cayo United now shows 1 point from 3 losses and a draw to remain in the alley.

In other action, around the Belize Bank Super League, Griga Knights conquered Third World FC in a 4-1 affair. Orange Walk United doubled Hattieville Monarch at Hattieville in a 2-1 finish while the matchup between Paradise Freedom Fighters and Placencia Assassin was postponed because of inclement wealth at Punta Gorda. This match is now set for Wednesday, March 23^rd, 2011 at the Toledo Union Field.

Looking to Week 5, Griga Knights will host Paradise Freedom Fighters on Saturday. On Sunday, RG City Boys United travel to Placencia Assassin. Orange Walk United will be inside the People’s Stadium against Cayo South United. And Hattieville Monarch comes to the MCC to face Third World F.C.

Meanwhile the Smart Challenge Cup in Week 7 saw K.H.M.H. Authority edged Atlantic Insurance 4-3 Brown Bombers downed Atlantic Insurance 3-2 and Ebony Lake made it 5 wins in a row with a 4-3 victory over Westlake. This Saturday finds Yabra FC in action against K.H.M.H. and Atlantic Bank with take on City Boys United.

In cycling news, Team Santino won the weekend, Warrior Team Time Trial which concluded Sunday with a total of 111 points, Clean Masters Truckers Posse rounds out the top 3 with 94 points.

In billiards news, the Belize National Billiards Association presents a 2 day pool tournament on March 26^th and 27^th at Element Club. Contact telephone numbers 604-2069 or 600-3888.

Checking the basketball scene, action in the Orange Walk U-17 competition saw Muffles College roll over Orange Walk Tech 65-73 on 16 points from Jian Arcurio.

Finally folks, in the Digicell U-15 tournament at the Civic rising starts swept Belama Hatazz in 2 straight to grab that title while at the U-17 level Kruzzers deveined Deacons also in 2 straight to emerge as champion. We say congratulations to both winners.

Channel 5

Sportscaster James Adderley has the winners

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and here’s this week’s rush of Sports Monday.

Thirty-three of the rising stars in Belizean Cycling suited up for the 12^th Annual Junior Cross Country Cycling Classic which blasted off from the Succotz Ferry to complete a 73.9 mile journey that would finish in front of Leslie’s Imports here in Belize City. Coming out of Santa Elena, we’ve got a 4-man breakaway that chose to run early buy wouldn’t hold up. In fact, by the time the race reaches three flags, we find the chase group about to engulf the lead riders.

Out of the newly formed compact pelathon, Giovannu Lovell decides to launch a solo flight and would make it a 1 min 57 seconds lead as he takes the Roaring Creek Station Prize unchallenged. At St. Matthew’s Village, Lovell is still maintaining the torrid pace as he tries to do it by himself. However, this chase bunch would not be deterred. Giovanni Lovell takes the station prize ant the Belize Zoo, but the end of the run had become a done deal.

At mile 18, the configuration features a 5-man lead that includes Joel Borland, Juan Umana, Oscar Quiroz and former Champion Austin Armstrong as Lovell hangs on. About a mile from the tape, we find a 6-man lead of Borland, Umana, Quiroz, Armstrong, Lovell and Gentle. At the tape it’s a 5-man sprint for the 2011 title. Watch Borland on the inside move over to the center of the road, this puts Umana and Armstrong in trouble—as Joel Borland of Team Indeco takes top honors in 3hrs 56 mins 21 seconds.

Juan Umana of Cayo High Road Cycling pulls up 2^nd and his teammate Kyle Gentle; 3^rd, Austin Armstrong of twin Towns Cycling is 4^th and a spent Giovanni Leslie of Indeco takes 5^th place unchallenged.

Meanwhile, the management of Cayo High Road Cycling launched a protest on the Borland win but the protest could not be entertained by the B.C.A. since it was not accompanied by the required fifty dollars fee. Of the 33 that started, 20 compelted the ride which recorded an average speed of 18.76 miles per hour. The record of 3 hours 37 mins 48 seconds set by Byron Pope in 2007 was not broken.

We now look forward to the mighty Holy Saturday Cross Country Classic and we invite you to join us for our 1^st issue of the Race for the Garland which kicks off the Thursday at 8:30 p.m.

Turning to the football scene. Week 6 in the Belize Bank Super League Tournament brought a clash of undefeated teams to the MCC Grounds as City Boys United hosted Griga Knights yesterday. City Boys gets the 1^st real chance at goal some 10 minutes in when Ryan Simpson fired this left foot that inches outside of the target. Griga Knights reply comes from Darwin Castillo who attacks off the left wing to launch this right foot push corralled by Stanley Reneau. Less than a minute later, this defensive error by Shawn Thurton gives Castillo another opportunity to open the scoreboard only to again be denied by goalkeeper Reneau.

Folks, sometimes strange things happen. We actually missed the opening goal by Deon McCauley at the 41^st minute but here’s the kickoff, but the keeper by Castillo won’t get past Reneau.

Folks we’re 10 minutes into the 2^nd half when Jason Young is taken down inside the 18^th by Allan Flores and the penalty call is made. Deon McCauley steps up and easily beats Elias Pelayo for his 2^nd goal of the match as City Boys take a 2-zip lead. Meanwhile, absolutely no one expected this ball to score but somehow it gets past Stanley Reneau as Shane Gentle gets credited with the goal for Griga Knights.

Tyrone Muschamp then gets this chance to get on the scoreboard on this pass from Ian Gaynair, but he misses the target. At the 73^rd minute, Ryan Simpson sets table perfectly for Deon McCauley who completes the hat trick with this right foot slice as City Boys roll to the 3-1 big W to become the only undefeated team at this juncture in the Super League.

In other action around the League; Paradise Freedom Fighters used the home field advantage to double Hattieville manarch in a 2-1 affair. O.W. United edged the host team , Placencia Assassins a 2-1 scorcher while Third World FC won the battle of stellar win with a 4-1 bashign of Cayo South United.

Thus after 6 weeks, Raymond Gentle City Boys leads the standings with a perfect 18 points, Griga Knights is next with 13 points, Paradise Freedom Fighters have 12 points, Orange Walk United 10, Hattieville Monarchs 6, Placencia Assassins 4, Third World FC also shows 4 and Cayo South United are in the cellar with 1 point to show.

This week’s schedule finds Hattieville Monarchs hosting City Boys on Sunday, Paradise Freedom Fighters travel to Cayo South, Orange Walk United will host Griga Knights and Placencia Assassins takes on 3^rd World FC inside the MCC Grounds.

Finally in basketball news, Orange Walk Technical got a game high of 23 points from Jerry Vasquez. Timothy Morey struck from 21 points and Kareem Hyde added 13 to beat Muffles College in the High School under 17 tournament on Saturday to claim that O.W. Title. For Muffles: Daniel Garcia was high man with 15 points, while Steviele Fuentes threw up 10 points in that loss.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

Sports Monday with James ‘Jah Over All’ Adderley

Good evening I’m James Adderly and this is Sport’s Monday.

Week 7 of the Belize Bank Super League Tournament saw Hattieville Monarchs play host to the red hot and still undefeated Raymond Gentle City Boys United as the league leader looked to keep its clean sheet intact against a team that seems to be struggling right now.

The home team gets off to a good start when Jason Robison picks out Jeremy James whose header forces a big time save out of goalkeeper Stanley Reneau.

It’s the Monarchs again with the scoring opportunity as Jason Robinson pushes this ball across the goalmouth only to see Dean Frazier fail to make contact with the pill.

We’re 12 minutes in when Leon Jones floats this ball to Deon McCauley whose right away left foot valley crashes into the net behind Mason Moya for his league leading 11^th goal and a 1 nil lead for City Boys.

At the 28^th minute Deon McCauley displays his quality with this spot kick from on top the 18 and he bends it into the back of the net to make it 2-zip, extending his goal total to a league leading 12.

Three minutes into 2^nd half Leon Jones mounts this effort off the right wing and he makes it 3-nil in favor of the visitors.

Hattieville tries to comeback as Roy Smith fires this shot that is mishandled by goalkeeper Reneau. Jeromy James can’t react in time and the shot by Carlton Rogers sails over the crossbar.

A few minutes later Ryan Simpson finds the streaking Leon Jones who slices the ball into the far corner of the net for his 2^nd goal of the match and a 4-zip City Boys lead.

We’re at the 78^th minute when Floyd Jones is taken down inside the 18’ by Emmerson Garnett and the referee rightly rules penalty.

Floyd Jones who had to suit up as goalkeeper with the desertion of Mason Moya exacts sweet revenge by converting the penalty kick for the 4-1 score.

Off the bench David McCauley gets this chance to get on the scoreboard but is denied by the goal scoring goalkeeper Floyd Jones.

Make it a 5-1 ballgame when Tan Gaynair get this header into the net off the set piece as City Boys roll to a perfect 7-0 record to end the 1^st round of play.

In other action over the weekend Paradise Freedom Fighters crushed Cayo South United 4-1 at Camalote.

Orange Walk United embarrassed an under named Griga Knights 5-zip inside the MCC Grounds.

Week 8 brings up the beginning of the 2^nd round so this Sunday, Hattieville Monarch will host Griga Knights, Cayo South will get a visit from Placencia Assassins, RG City Boys travel to Toledo for a date with Paradise Freedom Fighters and 3^rd World will be inside the MCC Grounds against Orange Walk United.

Thus the current standings looks like this Raymond Gentle City Boys leads with a perfect 21 points from 7 outings, Paradise Freedom Fighters show 15 points, both Orange Walk United and Griga Knights have 13 apiece, Placencia Assassins 7, Hattieville 6, 3^rd World 4 and Cayo South United in the cellar with 1 point to show from 7 appearances.

Turning to the Smart Challenge Cup action over the weekend saw Atlantic Insurance and KHMH Authority battle to a 1-1 tie and West Lake downed the Brown Bombers 5 to 1. This Friday’s schedule finds Ebony Lake in action against Atlantic Insurance and Atlantic Bank faces West Lake.

Turning to the track and field scene, the National Secondary School’s Athletic Competition was staged at the People’s Stadium Orange Walk over the weekend. We don’t have all the details but here’s what we do have.

Cuan Rivero recorded 25 meters on this throw to win the Discus event for the North. Alfrene Nunez finished 2^nd for the South with this throw for 19 meters while his teammate Brandon Flowers settled for 3^rd.

Gerald Meighan took the Jr. Male Triple Jump for Central with a distance of 12.31 meters. Stephen Hall of the North measured 12.25 meters for 2^nd place while Raheem Burke of Central finished 3^rd with his jump of 12.10 meters.

The female Jr. 4×100 relay was won by Shanika Augustine, Kristen Fuentes, Gian Humes and Shannon Neal of Central posting a time of 58.20 seconds.

The South took 2^nd, the North 3^rd while the West who would have finished 2^nd was disqualified.

Meanwhile the female 4×400 went to the South whose team of Starla Casimiro, Evette Garcia, Karina Caliz and Kenya Flores posted 5 minutes 20.84 seconds to grab top honors and here is Kenya Flores overtaking Khea Ireland at the tape to record the win.

Central won the Male Sr. 4×400 relay in 4 minutes 2.7 seconds beating out North by over 30 seconds. South and West were disqualified for lane violation.

The male Jr. 4×100 relay was taken by Central in 50.18 seconds as South took 2^nd in 53.62 and the North’s 54.36 was only good enough for 3^rd place.

The female 4×100 went to the South with a time of 57.47 seconds as Yvette Garcia completed the anchor leg.

The male Sr. 4×100 relay saw the South’s team comprising of Shanti Castillo, Kevin Fernandez, Tito Flowers and Brandon Flores posted a time of 49.38 seconds to grab top honors as Central and West took 2^nd and 3^rd respectively.

Meanwhile the athletes were obviously not prepared for the female 4×400, especially with the heat of the day – which lead to a total disqualification of the event.

The male side of the 4×400 was successfully run – Central took it in 4:18:66 seconds, beating the North who posted 4:24:38 seconds while the South pulled up 3^rd 6 seconds later.

In basketball news, Orange Technical swept Libertad in 2 straight games, 46 to 24 and 39 to 33 to win the U-15 North Regionals.

Then at the U-17 level they swept Libertad Rebels 63-62 and 79-63 to grab that title.

Finally, the National Cricket Team opened play in Division 2 of the ICC Americas Division Tournament on Saturday by beating Panama 87-81 with 6 wickets to spare. However, they lost to Suriname on Sunday by all of 8 wickets in a match disrupted by rain.

Today Monday Team Belize returned to its winning ways by beating Brazil by 76 runs. Go Team Belize.

Channel 5

Sports Monday with James Adderley

Good night I’m James Adderly and this is Sports Monday.

Week 8 in the Belize Bank Super League Tournament brought the surging Orange Walk United ball club to the MCC Grounds to face Third World FC, a team that took the home pitch yesterday, fresh out of the cellar.

Even before the fans are properly seated Orrin Wade finds Oliver Hendricks whose right away right foot push rebounds of the crossbar, Hendricks gets another chance with the header this time only to being the same results and the ball returns to Orlando Castillo who pushes it into the net as OW take a 1-zip lead 6 minutes in.

At the 16^th minute Oliver Hendricks catches up with this center off the right wing and his header makes it a 2-nil score just like that.

Folks let’s not mince words – this one is all Orange Walk United – Jarret Davis launches this from just inside the 18 and it beats the 3^rd World Keeper as the visitors take a 3-zip lead into intermission.

In 2^nd half 3^rd World comes out with a little bit more determination but OW hangs tough on defense.

On this press the home team gets the chance to pull one back but the weak touch by Clifton Ramos won’t get past the veteran Charlie Slusher.

It would have been 4-nil for Sugar City when Oliver Hendricks beats the keeper with this toe push but Ernest Wiltshire digs it out of the goal.

Like they say frustration ain’t no fun, and Mark Kello Leslie vents his when Oliver Hendricks to power home his 2^nd goal of the match – Hendricks is hurt and would not return as the referee rightly rules penalty.

Alfred Jesse steps up and easily beats the keeper for the 4-nil OW lead.

However, the punishment for 3^rd World ain’t over yet. Christopher Hendricks the keeper with his low cruise missile but the defenders digs it out, Marlon Miranda fresh off the bench heads the rebound home for the 5-zip spread.

A minute later Dean Flowers fires this left foot that rebounds off the keeper to Marlon Miranda who smashes it into an empty goal for the 5-zip Orange Walk united big W and even the camera man was glad this rout was over.

In other action around the league R.G. City Boys United made it 8 straight wins with a 3-2 victory over Paradise Freedom Fighters at the Toledo Union Field s Deon McCauley scored his league leading 14^th and 15^th goal.

Placencia Assassins crushed Cayo South United at the Camalote Football Field in a 4-zip bashing while Hattieville Monarch and Griga Knights battled to a 1-1 draw at Hattieville.

Thus R.G. City Boys lead the standings with a perfect 24 points, Orange Walk United is next with 16 points, Paradise Freedom Fighters have 15, Griga Knights 14, Placencia 10, Hattieville 7, 3^rd World 4 and Cayo South still shows 1 point from 8 appearances.

Week 9’s schedule begins on Thursday at the MCC Grounds where City Boys will host 3^rd World and Hattieville travels to Cayo South. On Saturday Orange Walk United heads to Toledo Union for a date with Paradise Freedom Fighters and Griga Knights head to Placencia.

In news from the Smart Challenge Cup, on Friday Atlantic Insurance stunned Ebony Lake is a 3-2 finish while West Lake and Atlantic Bank struggled to a 1-1 stalemated. Action resumes on Wednesday as Brown Bombers take aim at KHMH Authority and Atlantic Insurance faces Atlantic Bank and this schedule will be repeated on Friday.

Turning to the Cricket scene it’s a fact that the higher you go the harder things get. Having won Division 3 rather easily but in Division 2 of the ICC American Cup tournament the National Team of Belize had to settle for 3^rd place. We caught them as they arrived at the Philip Goldson yesterday and we must say they were nevertheless well received as their fans do take their team seriously.

Michelt Anthony accepted the fact that they made mistakes.

Michelt Anthony

Michelt Anthony, Member, National Cricket Team

“The competition was nice and we played against teams that we had plays against before and we could have won the tournament. but just little errors on ourselves cost us. What happened, I picked up this one against the Bahamas for taking five wickets for nineteen runs and batted twenty-five runs. And this one was for best bowler for tournament—picked up ten wicket overall.”

Gilroy Middleton, Manager of the National Cricket Team, had this to say:

Gilroy Middleton

Gilroy Middleton, Manager, National Cricket Team

“I think this was a very competitive competition, but I am really proud of the Belize national Team in that we were able to play with all the big teams; especially one of the big teams that came in second, Panama, we beat them in the tournament. I would like to go down in record to say that our team was as good as all the other team in the tournament. Just like sports, we just missed second place to play for first place just by three balls. And I think we will be seeing much better improvement in the future for the Belize Team. I think they have a far way to go.”

Moving on the 83^rd Annual Cross Country Cycle Classics is set to blast off at 6am on Holy Saturday. Since Shane Vasquez’s magnificent win in 2006 Belize has been bereft of a champion. American Boyd Johnson took the garland in 2007. Brian Bowman also of the US set a new record for his 139 miles race in 2008 with a time of 5 hours 40 minutes 12 seconds. Carlos Lopez of Mexico took it in 2009 and last year Guatemalan Miguel Perez emerged the champion. Which Belizeans have a chance to be the hero in 2011?

Here is cycling expert Melvin Torres with his picks “(Race for the Garland II 2011)”

Melvin Torres, Cycling Expert

Melvin Torres

The best bet will be with Darnell Barrow. I think you have quite a few guys who can be around that circle that can assist, but honestly I believe Darnel barrow has the best chance. And my reasons for that: firstly, he is a young kid and he don’t have a lot of experience, but what he has in his legs is showing that he has the determination and the ability plus this is a rider who has certain skills and certain talents. And he have a very good sprint. We cannot take out Belize’s best rider, in my opinion, Marlon Castillo. Well then we will go to Giovanni. Last year he was the favorite last year. He is the best long distance rider Belize has. He knows what to do, where to go and how to make the move. Then we go to Greg Lovell. He was there also last year. Greg Lovell was the man that Santino put his team jersey on and say well you will be the person to take it home. Byron Pope. Byron has a very good chance because he has shown maturity over the years and he is making very good decisions for himself. But also you cannot take Shane Vasquez out of it. He’s been there done that. I think Shane has a very good chance. He showed it throughout the other races that he is right there. He probably lost a few steps but he is right there.”

Meanwhile folks, things kick off on Thursday at 4:30pm with the annual parade of Cyclists which will leave Court House Plaza.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Sports Monday with winning analysis from James Adderley

Good evening I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

Raymond Gentle City Boys United took its quest for perfection into the People’s Stadium as week 10 found them in action against Orange Walk United and folks this match-up lined up to its pre-game hype – sp lets get started.

It’s all OW in the opening minutes and Cesar Roberts gets this chance to give his team the early lead but fails to make the proper connection.

Christopher Hendricks then gets this look at goal from inside the box only to be denied by Stanley Reneau who is well positioned in goal.

In this foot race between Cesar Roberts and Stanley Reneau, the goal keeper wins the contest to save the day.

We’re at the 37 minute when Roberts finds Oliver Hendricks who moves Mark Grant out of the way to fire a left foot grounder that beats Reneau to give OW a 1-zip lead.

Two minutes later Oliver Hendricks launches this set piece with the inside of the right foot and again Reneau is beaten as OW United goes up 2-zip and for the 1^st time this season City Boys find themselves in a hole this big.

A minute before the half expires Nigel Franklin sends this spot kick into the danger zone, Jason Young catches up with it and heads it into the net as City Boys pull one back going into intermission.

We’re in 2^nd half play when Jarret Davis fires this set piece from long distance that only a finger tip push to the crossbar prevents the home team from re-instating the 2 goal lead.

At the 64^th minute Ryan Simpson plays the give and go with Leon Jones to fire this shot that Charlie Slusher cannot handle the rebound reaches Deon McCauley and the goleador ties the score at 2 apiece.

Dalton Cayetano then gets this chance from pointblank range to give City Boys the lead but the weak shot bounces off McCauley whose effort at goal is disappointing.

Just when things were looking up for City Boys Ian Gaynair’s reckless tackle on Jarret Davis leads to a 2^nd yellow card which translates to an ejection and now the visitors find themselves with a numerical disadvantage.

OW almost capitalizes immediately when Davis picks out Oliver Hendricks whose header inches outside the far post.

Meanwhile Orin Wade comes off the bench for Sugar City and put his team ahead but the left foot launch leaves a lot to be desired.

At the 83^rd minute Orrin Wade finds Cesar Roberts who pushes to Christopher Hendricks and his right foot slice bounces off the near upright and into the goal for the 3-2 lead.

City Boys look for the equalizer off this spot kick launch from Deon McCauley is only denied by a big time save from Charlie Slusher.

Orange Walk United hangs on for the 3-2 victory, handing RG City Boys its 1^st defeat in 10 outings.

In other action around the league 3^rd World FC picked up its 2^nd season win by doubling Paradise Freedom Fighters 2 to 1 at the MCC Grounds while Placencia Assassin posted its 5^th win by hurting Hattieville Monarch in a 3-1 decision. The march between Griga Knights and Cayo South United at the Carl Ramos Stadium has been re-scheduled for Wednesday May 14^th.

Thus the standings looks like this City Boys leads with 27 points from 10 outings, OW United has 19, Paradise Freedom Fighters 18, Placencia Assassin 18, Griga Knights show 14 but from 9 appearances, Hattieville has 8 points, 3^rd World FC 7 and winless Cayo South remains in the cellar with 2 points.

Week II kicks off on Saturday inside the Carl Ramos Stadium where Griga Knights will host 3^rd World FC. This Sunday Orange Walk will host Hattieville, Paradise Freedom Fighters travel to Placencia and City Boys will host Cayo South United inside the MCC Grounds.

Turning to the Smart Challenge Cup 1^st Division competition at the MCC Brown Bombers beat KHMH Authority 7-1 on Wednesday to get into the semi-finals while Atlantic Insurance edged Atlantic Bank 3 to 1 to get in.

Thus the semi-final round begins this Friday 6^th May with Ebony Lake facing Brown Bombers to kick off a 2 game series while the nightcap will find West Lake taking aim at Atlantic Insurance.

In cycling news the 6^th Annual Pablo Marin Labor Day Classic some 57 riders suited up for the start of this 81.8 mile race that took off from Corozal Town on Sunday May 1^st.

At the turn around at the Belize Mexico Border we’ve got a more or less compact pelathon as the race now heads towards orange Walk Town.

Around San Narciso we’ve got 2 riders Giovanni Choto and Tariq Cano looking to run but they don’t get far.

Heading into San Pablo we’ve got an 8 man that includes Giovanni Choto, Wilman Bravo Isaya, Mark Staine, Rafael Choto, Kyle Gentle, Jairo Campos and Patrick Bennett.

At the turn around point just outside Orange Walk we find Bravo Isaya in control of the pace followed by Patrick Bennett, Giovanni Choto, Jairo Campos, Nissan Arana and Brandon Cattouse.

The 6 man lead pack work well until just before the Libertad junction where Giovanni Choto and Bravo Isaya transformed the race into a 2 man affair.

Inside San Joaquin Isaya attacks Choto and speeds into a solo flight for the rest of the way.

And here is Wilman Bravo Isaya of Team Zamis by way of Venezuela capturing the 6^th Pablo Marin Labor Day Classic unchallenged in a record time of 3 hours 28 minutes 24 seconds.

A minute and 36 seconds after Giovanni Choto of Western Spirit Galen Eagles takes 2^nd place. Jairo Campos of Typhoon Cycling Club picks ip 3^rd place forcing Patrick Bennett into 4^th while Edgar Nissan Arana of Team Typhoon out sprints Brandon Cattouse to round out the top 5.

On the Jr. side, Kyle Gentle of Cayo High Road Cycling took the 40 miles ride in 1 hour 57 minutes 47 seconds out sprinting Austin Armstrong of D&D and his teammate Aiden Juan when finished 2^nd and 3^rd respectively.

In the female race Marinette Flowers edged Alicia Thompson to grab the W while Gina Lovell finished 3^rd.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Sports Guru James Adderley’s Winning Comments

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

Week 11 of the Belize Bank Super league Tournament took us to Sugar City Saturday night where Orange Walk United, fresh off handing RG City Boys its 1st Season loss, played host to the Hattieville Monarchs who have been plagued by inconsistent play all season long.

Folks we’re still in the opening minutes of this ballgame when Edwin Gillette triggers this set piece from first outside the 18 and a poorly positioned Mason Moya is beaten as the home team takes a 1-zip lead 8 minutes in. 4 minutes later, things take a turn for the worse when Alfred Jesse centers from the right wing, Lloyd Jones tries to concede the corner kick but instead he sends this left foot into the back of the net for the dreaded auto goal. Edwin Gillette then looks for his 2nd goal of the match after being set up by Christopher Hendricks but the left inches outside the far post.

In the meantime, the Monarchs continue to contribute to their own demise when Brandon Rogers takes down his former team-mate, Jarret Davis inside leaving the referee with no option but to rule penalty. Designated penalty kicker, Oliver Hendricks steps up and has Moya going the wrong way as O.W. takes a 3-zip lead 25 minutes in. make it a 4-nil when Oliver provides for his brother Christopher Hendricks who finds the war corner at the 34th minute and the rout is on.

We’re in the final minute of the 1st half play when this set piece from the left side finds Jerome James and Hattieville Monarch gets on to the scoreboard with this header to make it a 4-1 deficit at intermission.

In early 2nd half action, Jarret Davis breaks his man to set table for Orrin Wade whose effort is rejected by the crossbar. In the meantime, there’s no excuse for this play by Luis Jones who attack on Cesar Roberts can only be described as cynical for which he is immediately ejected out of the ballgame. Down a man, Hattieville simply crumbled after that and indeed Oliver Hendricks should have had his 2nd goal right here instead he lets loose a bouncer over the horizontal bar. However, he does get his 2nd goal of the match at the 72nd minute when he heads this ball home for the 5-1 O.W. lead.

In the latter part of the ballgame, Jarret Davis steps out to deal out more punishment to his former team. Just inside the 18, Davis fires this left foot that makes it a 6-1 score at the 84th minute. And then 3 minutes later, re-direct this launch from Christopher Hendricks into the back of the net as the red bot Orange Walk United goes on to post the 7-1 big Win.

In other action around the league, Griga Knights blanked 3rd World 3-zip inside the MCC Grounds. RG City Boys got back to its winning ways with a 3-nil Win. Our Cayo South United and Placencia Assassins used the home field advantage to bomb Paradise Freedom Fighters in a 2-zip final score. Thus after 11 matches: RG City Boys leads the league with 30 points, O.W. is next with 22, Griga Knights now shows 20, Placencia Assassins 19, Paradise Freedom Fighters stay at 18. In the meantime, the remaining teams are already out of the playoff picture – Hattieville with 8 points from 11 appearances is out. So is 3rd World with 7 points and Cayo South United with 2 points.

Meanwhile, Week 12’s schedule brings all Sunday matches this weekend. Paradise Freedom Fighters will host Griga Knights in a pivotal ballgame for both clubs, O.W. United travels to Cayo South United, Hattieville will host 3rd World FC and Placencia Assassin comes to the MCC Grounds to challenge league leader, RG City Boys.

In news from the Smart Challenge Cup, on Friday, Brown Bomber and Ebony Lakers battled to a 2-2 draw in game 1 of the 2 game semi-finals while West Lake blanked Atlantic Insurance 2-zip. Thus this Friday, the finalists will emerge when the Bombers face Ebony Lake and West Lake takes on Atlantic Insurance.

In softball news, we caught up with play on the Belize District Rural Softball completely as strugglers led by Tricia Flores picked up the 14-10 victory over Shanice Pook and Haadli Potikla strugglers second 5 runs in the 1st, 1 in the 2nd, 1 in the 3rd, 2 in the 4th, 1 in the 5th and 4 in the 6th to grab the Win.

On the other side Haadli Potikla scored 6 in the 2nd, 2 in the 3rd and 2 in the 6th in that loss. In the nightcap, Sandhill Wildcats exploded for 8 runs in the very 1st wing and it was all they needed to blank Ladyville Rising Stars 8-zip. Shiraine Westby puts up that victory while Sherette Williams is charged with the loss. Earlier in the day, Burrell Boom Survivors edged Village Gyal Rancho 10-9.

Finally, in domino news, the interoffice tournament here in the City saw BTL beat Post Office on Thursday. On Wednesday, Port stopped KHMH and on Thursday, the Fire Service consumed Fisheries/Coastal Zone. The action continues as Fisheries takes on Post Office, on Tuesday, the Fire Service takes aim at Port and on Wednesday its BTL in action against Fisheries/Coastal Zone.

Channel 5

Sports Monday’s Cycling Winner is Belizean

Good Evening, I am James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The 22^nd Annual Women’s Cross Country Cycle Classic will be remembered for a very long time because it proved to be the most competitive female race in recent memory. At the heart of this story is Shalini Zabaneh who came in as defending champion looking for a 3^rd title but today she would be tested as never before. Indeed it’s a casual start yesterday to this journey that begins at Columbus Park in San Ignacio and would conclude 71.54 miles later at the Memorial Park here in Belize City—for sure things would heat up in a hurry.

We’re passing through Central Farm when the American Sara Tussey riding for Hincapie Girls steps on the pace and Shalini follows suit then backs off conceding that station prize to the visitor from the U.S. In the meantime, this group of 5 is already showing signs of having a problem with this pace.

As the race progresses, there’s no doubt that Sara Tussey has come to take this title to the U.S. Tussey continues to push the pace sweeping all the premies in sight and inside Ontario Village, it’s a 2 woman race with Shalini Zabaneh staying in the picture. Shalini does shake up the status quo coming around Brick Wall as she attacks Tussey to take that station prize. Behind the lead duo, Anthea Sutherland leads a group of 6 as they stalk the front runners.

Inside St. Matthews, Shalini has wrested control of the pace from Tussey as the duel picks up steam. And as the official indicates, the lead duo enjoys a lead of 4 minutes 52 seconds over the nearest chase group. At Mile 25, this lead has been extended to 6 minutes 58 seconds which makes the race for the 2011 title a 2 person affair.

Around Mile 10, Tussey decides she wants this station prize and revs up to take it as Shalini backs off. As they pass the police sub-station at Mile 4 the 2 cyclists seem to be preparing for the big showdown. Going in to the roundabout into Central American Boulevard, Shalini pulls a move to see how much is left in Sara Tussey’s tank. Around Princess Margaret Drive, the American decides to push the pace so Shalini stays in contact with her back wheel. So now, we’re at Memorial Park for the big finish—both riders are obviously exhausted as they push to the finish line. Shalini Zabaneh of Sagitun gives it all she has and its good enough to win the 2011 Female Cross Country title in 3 hours, 44 minutes 8 seconds.

Sara Tussey of Hincapie proved to be a worthy challenger and severely tested Shalini, but nevertheless has to settle for 2^nd place. 8 minutes 11 seconds later, we have the battle for 3^rd palce and Nancy Jones of Hincapie hangs on to heat a surging Alicia Thompson forcing the Belize Bank rider into 4^th. Cassandra Rodriguez Quiroz a Costa Rican riding for S cycling takes 5^th place while unattached. Junior rider, Patricia Chavarria rounds out the top 6.

Of the 15 that started, 14 completed the ride and we say good show to one and all. In other cycling news Emil Figueroa of Cayo Uprising Junior Team s spearheading the effort to present a junior race this weekend so we want to him for details.

Emil Figueroa, Manager, Cayo Uprising Jr. Team

“The Uprising Cycling team along with the Cycling Association of Belize and the family of the late Christopher Chuc are sponsoring and organizing a race for juniors and riders eighteen years of age on Sunday, May 22^nd starting at 8:30 starting from the ferry in San Jose Succotz. We will have prizes for the eighteen year old division and prizes also for the juniors and youths.”

Turning to the football scene, Week 12 of the Belize Bank Super league Tournament brought Placencia Assassins to the MCC Grounds for a faceoff with league leading RG City Boys yesterday. We’re only 5 minutes in when Brandon Torres takes down Tyronne Muschamp right on top the 18. International striker, Deon McCauley, lifts the ball over the wall on the spot-kick and goalkeeper, Kareem Westby, is beaten as the home team takes a 1-zip lead.

City Boys looks to double the lead when Leon Jones deals to Deon McCauley but this time the goal getter unleashes a high riser. 5 minutes into the 2^nd half, Brent Whyte centers into the danger zone, the ball eventually reaches Ashley Torres who punches it past Stanley Reneau as Placencia Assassins ties the ball game 1 apiece. Pumped up, Placencia looks for more and almost gets when this corner kick is mishandled by Stanley Reneau, but despite a good effort, they nevertheless come away empty.

Folks, it was not a well played football game and neither team did enough to deserve the win as they settled for the 1-1 tie. We must say RG City Boys seem to be struggling at this juncture while Orange Walk is coming in strong. Yesterday, O.W. United crushed Cayo South United 6 to 1 at Camalote. 3^rd World FC picked up its 3^rd win with a 1-zip blast on Hattieville Monarch and Paradise Freedom Fighters blanked Griga Knights 3-zip at Toledo Union.

Looking ahead to Week 13, RG City Boys head south to face Griga Knights and Placencia Assassins will visit orange Walk at the People’s Stadium—both Saturday matches—while on Sunday, Paradise Freedom Fighters travel to Hattieville and 3^rd World FC will host Cayo South united inside the MCC Grounds.

In other football news, West Lake crushed Atlantic Insurance 9-1 and Brown Bombers blanked Ebony Lake 2-zip to move on to the finals in the Smart Challenge Cup at the MCC Grounds. Thus, the 3-game finals gets off this Friday with West lake facing Brown Bombers at the MCC.

Finally folks, Sports Monday mourns the loss of Ariel Rosado to a traffic accident Saturday night. Ariel was a gifted cyclist who gave up sports to pursue a university degree and was a Channel 5 commentator in the 2010 and 2011 Cross Country race. Our condolences go out to his family and friends. Sleep on Ariel.

Jah overall, I’m James Adderley.

Sports Guru, James Adderley, has the winning stats

Good Evening. I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

In week 13 of the Belize Bank Super League Tournament, the red hot Orange Walk United hosted the always dangerous Placencia Assassins Saturday night inside the People’s Stadium as the mad scramble to make the 4 team playoffs intensifies. It’s the visitors with the first good look at goal and it comes off this corner kick that finds Brandon Torres whose header screams over the crossbar.

On the next press, this center gives Placencia another opportunity to score, but the header from Zerrick Torres rises over the goal. In the early goings, the Placencia Assassins emerges so the protagonist and this center into the goal by Dellon Torres provides a challenge for Charlie Slusher who gets a necessary hand on it. O.W. United finally gets smoothing going when Jarret Davis beats everybody to this ball including goalkeeper, Stephen Lopez—hits the near upright and gets a 2^nd crack at it only to push the ball outside the stick. Jarret Davis then gets another chance to put his team ahead but winds up a step too late against goalkeeper Lopez. At the 41^st minute, Kenny Canul inadvertently hands this ball inside the box for which the referee awards Placencia a penalty kick. The captain, Dalton Eiley sends Charlie Slusher the wrong way to give Placencia a 1-zip lead to take into intermissions.

We are into the 2^nd half when Oliver Hendricks finds Christopher Hendricks who cannot keep his right away effort inside the box down. It’s more O.W. when Orrin Wade’s center almost forces Dalton Eiley into the dreaded auto goal but the ball inches outside the sticks. We’re 78 minutes in when Oliver Hendricks finds himself at the right time at the right place to smack this half volley past Stephen Lopez tying the ballgame at 1 apiece. Now check this out folks, with a minute remaining in regulation play, Charlie Slusher in his attempt to clear, simply gifts this ball to Ashley Torres who makes him pay dearly as he gives Placencia Assassins the 2-1 victory at Sugar City.

In other action around the league, R.G. City Boys bombed Griga Knights 6-zip at the Carl Ramos Stadium. Paradise Freedom Fighters blanked Hattieville 2-nil while 3^rd World FC kept Cayo South with a 5-3 clubbing.

Thus with 1 game remaining, City Boys leads the league with 34 points and are headed to the 4 team playoffs as the #1 seed. O.W. United is next with 25 points and have made the post season, so has Paradise Freedom Fighters with 24 points and Placencia with 23 points are in but Griga Knights with 20 points could also rack 23 with a win in its final outing. Meanwhile, 3^rd World FC now shows 13 points, Hattieville 8 and Cayo South, 2.

Griga Knights will look for the 3 points at the expense of O.W. United who they’ll host Saturday 7:30 p.m. at the Carl Ramos Stadium and they’ll be hoping Placencia Assassins losses to 3^rd World FC on Sunday when they meet at Placencia. Paradise Freedom Fighters will host Cayo South on Saturday to close out regular season while RG City Boy finish against Hattieville inside the MCC Grounds on Sunday.

Deon McCauley leads the league in scoring with 22 goals—8 over his nearest challenger Oliver Hendricks who has 14.

Checking in on the Smart Challenge Cup, Brown Bombers beat West Lake on penalty kicks after a 3-3 finish on overtime to take a 1 game lead in the best of 3 series. Game 2 is set for Friday 7:30 p.m. inside the MCC Grounds.

In other football news, the final match in the 2 game series for the F.F.B.’s Delhard Courtney Cup was staged Sunday at the people’s Stadium where Suga City girls hosted Triple B’s who came in with a 2-zip lead from Game 1. Sensing the urgency of the situation, Suga City attacked immediately, courtesy of Dalia Mai, only to be foiled by good goal tending from Idania Ramirez. At the other end, Sheridan Tracey benefits from this defensive error to get this look at goal only to unleash a high riser. A few minutes later, Rhonda Hernandez has this chance to put Triple B on the scoreboard, but fails to hit the target.

We’re in the 2^nd half when Karen Garcia picks up this loose ball and pushes it into the far corner of the goal to give O.W. a 1-zip lead. This lead would hold up to the long whole, but it wouldn’t be enough as Triple B’s take it in a 2-1 aggregate score and we say congratulations to the champ.

In softball news, play in the Belize City completely saw Hurricanes wallop Orchid Blazers 10 to 3 on Friday and then on Sunday Mirage lady Rebels pounded Hurricanes in a 15-zip blowout.

In the cycling scene, Daniel Choto of Cayo High Road Cycling took Sunday’s Junior race in memory of Christopher Chuc in a time of 2 hours, 32 minutes beating out cross country winner, Joel Borland of Indeco by almost 2 minutes. Anfernee Young of Cayo High Road took 3^rd, Darren Williams of D & D Consultancy finished 4^th while Kyle Gentle of Cayo High Road rounds out the top 5 with a time of 2 hours 39 minutes 14 seconds in this 55 mile race.

Finally in basketball news, the national U-17 basketball team begins play today in the COCABA U-17 championship being staged at Costa Rica. Belize is grouped with El Salvador, México and Guatemala.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Sports Guru James Adderley sums up the week in sports

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

As regular season in the Belize Bank Super League Tournament reached its natural conclusion over the weekend, Raymond Gentle City Boys completed its schedule by hosting Hattieville Monarchs inside the MCC Grounds yesterday. It’s a tale of 2 teams streaking in opposite direction as Hattieville is looking for onlt its 2^nd win of the season and things got off according to the script when Deon McCauley’s spot kick is kept alive by Tyronne Mushchamp of the deflection but it’s David McCauley with the opportunity finish to give the defending champions a 1-zip lead. City Boys look for more when Ryan Simpson picks out Bryan Martinez off the set piece but goalkeeper Daniel Mejia denies him the goal and at the half, the home team still boast a 1-zip lead.

We’re in the 2^nd half when Stanley Reneau misread this center from Albert Arnold, Christopher Meighan tries to clear it with the right foot but instead it crashes into the net giving Hattieville Monarch the tie at the 58^th minute.

Things continue to spiral downwards for City Boys when Ryan Simpson is red carded for mouthing off to the referee, putting his team at a numerical disadvantage. In the meantime, Stanley Reneau continues to live dangerously when he mishandles this easy bounce but he gets away with it.

At the other end, Deon McCauley deals this spot kick to Shannon Flowers who fails to turn on this ball. Deon McCauley then tries to break the tie by pouncing on this defensive error but ballgame is decided. Carlton Rogers centers into the danger zone. Jerome James gets there in time and Hattieville Monarch hands City Boys its 2^nd loss of the season with the 2-1 big W. For City Boys, this loss should bother them some as they’ve lost their momentum going into the playoffs.

In other results from around the league, Paradise Freedom Fighters bombed Cayo South 4-zip while Griga Knights defaulted to Orange Walk United and Third World FC to Placencia Assassin. Thus the official standings at the end of regular season show City Boys with 34 points from 11 wins, a draw and 2 losses. Orange Walk United shows 28, Paradise Freedom Fighters 27 and Placencia Assassins round out the 4 teams headed to the playoffs with 26 points. Griga Knights finished with 20 points, Third World, 13 points, Hattieville 11 and Cayo South finishes with 2 points from 2 draws and 12 losses. David McCauley of City Boys scored the most goals with 22. Thus the playoffs hicks off this Sunday, June 5^th, with Orange Walk hosting Paradise Freedom Fighters while Placencia Assassin will be in town to face R.G. City Boys inside the MCC Grounds under this double round robin format.

Checking in on the Smart Challenge Cup on Friday, West Lake folded Brown Bombers 3-1 to even the championship series at 1 apiece. The decisive game 3 is set for this Friday, June 3^rd at the MCC Grounds.

Turning to the basketball scene, we want to say congratulations to our U-17 National Team who returned from Costa Rica with the silver medal from the COCABA games. President Paul Thompson of the Belize Basketball Federation fills us in.

Paul Thompson

Paul Thompson, President, B.B.F.

“The Belize national U-17 participated in the COCABA U-17 championship in Costa Rica. We placed second losing to Mexico in the gold medal game. We beat Nicaragua in the first game by 31, we beat El Salvador in the second game by twelve. We played Mexico and we lost in the overtime by two. That was an excellent game, we played very well we gave our maximum effort. But what that did was advance us to the semifinal round where we met panama and we beat them handily by twelve points so we advanced to the goal medal game where we met Mexico for the second time. I believe we lost that game due to several reasons. I believe we weren’t mentally ready and due to the fact that we played two hard games two nights prior to that and we extended most of our energies against panama the previous night and I think because our physical abilities weren’t there, we weren’t focusing the way I believe we could have focused. We lost nineteen to Mexico. So we weren’t in the game from the second half.”

James Adderley

“You know that there is a rivalry between Mexico and ourselves and to loose by nineteen after a lost by two, is shocking.”

Paul Thompson

“We definitely will have a chance to redeem ourselves. Because we placed second, we qualify to go to Centro Basket in Puerto Rico in August where Mexico will be there as well. So hopefully we get another opportunity to try to beat them.”

The national U-17 team now heads to Puerto Rico for Centro Basket play from August 1^st to the 6^th. Meanwhile, the National U-16 team will participate in the Centro Basket Championship at Mexico form June 15^th to June 19^th. It’s the qualifying tournament for FIBA Americas U-16 which will be staged in Cancun from June 21^st to the 27^th so stay tuned.

In Billiards news, Belize will be participating in the 1^st 9 ball Bi-national Billiard Tournament with Guatemala over this weekend and we spoke to newly elected president, Jermyn Galvez and Special Adviser, Otto Cattouse to get the details.

Jermyn Galvez, President

“We’re just trying to get billiards to be more recognized as a sport in Belize and we are just trying to bring up the level of billiards on a whole. So we are planning to take a trip internationally and play against Guatemala.”

James Adderley

“As the president is this your vision for the sport that we are seeing playing out right now?”

Jermyn Galvez

“Yes sir, slowly but surely we di get there and eventually we want to bring in a junior program to teach the youth from an early age and make we bring billiards up to the level of the whole world.”

Otto Cattouse

Otto Cattouse, Special Adviser

“Right now we have eight men travelling from different districts James. From Belize City we have William Leiva, from Cayo we have Leonel Pinelo, from Orange Walk, Naim Rosado from Belmopan Wayne Wilshire. From Corozal, Lazaro Amaya. Stann Creek, Wayne Pascasio, Toledo we have Jerome Parham and Horace Arnold and as a president travelling, we have Isaac Ranguy also playing.”

Finally folks, FIFA the world governing body for football finds itself in a terrible turmoil. Over the weekend, a commission headed by Chuck Blazer cleared President Sepp Blatter of bribery charges while suspending Mohammed Bin Hamman, President of the Asian Football League and a challenger for the presidency of FIFA and the president of CONCACAF jack Warner of Trinidad. Both officials were accused of offering U.S. $40,000 to members of the Caribbean Football Union at a meeting on May 10^th and 11^th. Bin Hammam was to face the incumbent Sepp Blatter on June 1^st in Zurich Switzerland. Like they say in Africa, ye-ye di smell.

Jah overall, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 7

Sportscaster James Adderley’s calorie burning sports update

Good Evening I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The Belize Bank Super League Tournament blasted off its 2011 playoffs yesterday with the reams fighting to get into the finals under the double elimination format.

At the People Stadium, Orange Walk United played host to Paradise Freedom Fighters who had not been beaten by the host team during the regular season play.

Thus it was no surprise when the visitors look to open the scoreboard as Delroy Flores’s center across the goalmouth is misjudged by goal keeper Charlie Slusher who is rescued only by a tremendous defensive recovery by #5 Andrew Allen.

It’s more Paradise Freedom Fighters when Alexander Peters deals to Ralph Flores whose potent right foot offering chips off the crossbar.

At the other end OW gets this chance to score when Jarret Davis sends this ball into the danger zone only to see Orrin Wade fail to make the connection.

Mean while OW visited into half more offerings minded so Wade looks for Andrew Allen instead he finds Oliver Hendricks who should have done better which this look at goal from point blank range.

Folks we just want to remind the referee Jones that this is the playoffs and if he doesn’t call this charge by Orlando Castillo on Alexander Peters a foul things could get out of hand.

It’s OW now pressing and good passing in front of the goal forces goalkeeper Stephen Polonio to come out of the goal to stop Jarret Davis from scoring and he gets the job done.

In the very next OW press Andrew Allen gets a lead on goal and only an impressive save by Polonio denies him the goal.

Folks we’re at the 85^th minutes of this ball game when this happens. Oliver Hendricks finds Christopher Hendricks who is unchecked in front of the goal and he smacks it past Polonio to give OW the only goal of the match. Paradise Freedom Fighters felt it was an offside goal even before it scored but referee Jones rules goal since the assistant referee Teddy Andrewin didn’t raise his flag. The Toledo players then mob Andrewin in protest and had not the long arm of the law marched out to protect this official things could have spiraled out of control. Here at Sports Monday we must confess our picture is not conclusive but the goal stands. O.W United beats Paradise Freedom 1-zip.

The other Super League match up Raymond Gentle City Boys kicked off the post season with a 3-zip bang on Placencia Assassin. This Sunday June 12^th the playoffs continue with Placencia Assassin hosting the O.W United at four p.m. While RG City Boys hit the road south for a 3:30p.m appointment with Paradise Freedom Fighters.

Meanwhile folks give it up for West Lake who burned Brown Bombers 2-zip in the decisisve Game three for the Smart Challenge Cup 2011. We say good show guys.

In cricket news two back matches in the Smart Harrison Parks National Cricket Competition were concluded on Saturday. Excellence grounded Western Eagles 7575 to 74 and Wicked Eleven routed Sunrise 104-51. This Saturday June 11^th Wicked Eleven will host Western Eagles at Flowers Bank and Easy Does It sees action against Excellence at Lemonal.

Channel 5

James Adderley’s electrifying and non-regulated Sports Monday

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

Week three of the Belize Bank Super League proved to be pivotal for all four teams under the double elimination format as they all come in with three points each and identical records of one win, one loss apiece. Here in Belize City the defending champion hosted Orange Walk United inside the MCC Grounds, teams that had split the regular season match-ups. The first real threat at goal comes from the city team when Ryan Simpson launches this set piece that forces Kenny Canul to head the ball over his own goal post and it works. In the early going it’s all City Boys and this spot kick launched by Ryan Simpson forces Charlie Slusher to come up with yet another save. We’re some twenty-two minutes in when Ryan Simpson mounts this individual attack when he is bushwhacked by Kenny Canul who concedes the spot kick just outside the eighteen. It proved to be a bad move because goleador Deon McCauley comes up with a magnificent spot kick that he bends into the goal to give City Boys the 1-zip lead. Orange Walk united looks to reply immediately when Jarret Davis beats out Leon Jones at midfield and then unleashes this screamer that inches outside the far corner of the City Boys’ goal. Nevertheless, it’s more City Boys when David McCauley triggers this corner kick that bounces to Leon Jones whose header is dangerously directed by Jarret Davis but the ball bounces off the far upright. At the twenty-nine minute, Ryan Simpson sends this ball into the box finding Tyrone Muschamp and the left touch gives RG City Boys a 2-zip lead.

Meanwhile, at intermission we took the opportunity to speak to the newly appointed head of the National Football Association of Belize, Michael Blease, set to replace Dr. Bertie Chimilio and the Football Federation of Belize.

Michael Blease, National Football Association of Belize

“For a long time now many people have been crying out for the removal of Dr. Chimilio from the power of football. We know that for FIFA when they put a president in place, that is for a long period of time, but if that president does not develop, does not build a sport, then why must a country do? It is the people of Belize, our youths, that have been suffering over the years. So there will be a transition period where this new national association has to start to work immediately between the time where the federation is suspended.”

James Adderley

“We have been suspended already, but we have not been expelled which means there is still room for negotiation and for some sort of compromise. Do you see that in the offing?”

Michael Blease

“From my vantage point, yes there is room, but I don’t see why there should be room for the remaining executive of the football federation of Belize to remain in power. I think if the people of Belize want to see a change, want to see development and want to see something brand new for Belizean football then I think this is the time for it.”

James Adderley

“I was telling my co-host just a while ago that maybe it would have been better for the powers that be to allow the national team—because it’s the same team that played Trinidad, it’s the same team that played Mexico—to have gone as far as they could then take the drastic action they did.”

Michael Blease

“From our vantage point as well, we believe that if Dr. Chimilio had given that opportunity to play that game, he has been using the players for a number of years as his scapegoat. While he has been locking all the development areas of football, he has been using national team to his advantage. When you don’t feed a national team for FIFA, that’s a big blow for any federation and that’s what Dr. Chimilio wanted to do. And I think those in the area that is dealing with Dr. Chimilio know exactly that he would have used that to his advantage. Many of our players now that are selected on the national team have not made the sacrifices that we have made over the years. When you are selected and paid to go and play on a national team, then that is not pride. When you are selected from among many young Belizeans that have the talent—yes they are a few talented players on the national team—but there are many, many young Belizeans that have been neglected that have the quality and talent that could have been on that national team.”

James Adderley

“I differ with you in the sense that these guys in the sense that these guys certainly were amongst the highest level of players. We had Elroy Kuylen, we had Kafu Roches, Deon McCauley, Elroy Smith—that’s the cream of our crop.”

Michael Blease

“That’s the cream that we have been seeing for a number of years. And that’s because Belizeans have not seen a lot of what we have seen at the super league level. A lot of people have not seen some of our players. Yes I can agree with you on that aspect that those guys are some of our cream players, but there are many more and I don’t think that we should have sacrificed nineteen players for what has been lacking over a number of years.”

But back to the game people, and we’re in early second half play when Leon Jones finds David McCauley whose right away effort did not have enough – to beat Charlie Slusher. In the meantime, Deon McCauley gets another opportunity to display his shooting technique on this spot kick but Lorenzo Diaz digs it out of the goal to deny Deon his second goal of the match. Christopher Hendricks then tries to pull one back for OW with this long distance attempt but it’s not good enough to beat Stanley Reneau. At the seventy-second minute, Ryan Simpson has possession on a three on one break; he opts to keep the ball and he validates that decision with a left foot finish that give City Boys a 3-zip lead. Orvin Wade then gets this chance to get OW on to the scoreboard but Stanley Reneau was having none of that.

Folks, we’re at the seventy-ninth minute when Muschamp deals to Deon McCauley, the first Belizean to score a hat trick in international play, and this powerful left foot launch shows us why as he gives RG City Boys a 4-zip lead. This score held up to the end of regulation as City Boys post the 4-nil big W.

John Pollard, Manager/Coach, City Boys

“I think it’s a very good team. As the coach, I feel very comfortable because I have a bunch of guys who listen and go out and play what you practice. Well some of the players like Muschamp and Leon Jones, they were too anxious most of the time today. Our game is simply: bring the ball in from the flanks, put it inside to the middle and from there the strikers should create and make what they need to score.”

In the other playoff match at the Toledo Union Field a penalty conversion at the forty-fifth minute by Alexander Peters gave Paradise Freedom Fighters a 1-zip victory over Placencia Assassin. Thus after three outings, City Boys shows 6 points, so does Paradise Freedom Fighters while Placencia Assassin and OW United show three points each. This Sunday, June twenty-fifth the Freedom Fighters travel to Placencia while City Boys head to Orange Walk for week four of the playoffs.

Turning to the boxing scene, Leopold Smart Boxing Gym took five fighters to San Pedro for Friday night’s big fight against a Mexican contingent on a Capo Canul Card. The Mexican won the three fights as Javier Rodriguez TKO’d Franco Erwin at one hundred and twenty-four pounds, Marco Gonzalez dispatched Rayford Smith in the second round at one hundred and thirty-five pounds and Anderson Portillo lost a four round decisive to Jesus Pichalles. Things change drastically Max Pain Williams knocked out Jairo Villamil one minute, one second into the fight at one hundred and forty-eight pounds. Mohamed Harmouch of San Pedro then won a four round split decision over Rogel Flores in a savage affair at one hundred fifty-five pounds and then Sherman Galvez won a classy four round decision over a slick Vicente Perez at one hundred and forty-eight pounds. We’ll take the 3-3 final folks.

Channel 5

James Adderley and the Weekend Sports Blotter

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley. Welcome to this serving of Sports Monday.

In the domestic front, Belizean football appears to be in disarray wit the National Sports Council’s suspension of both the Football Federation of Belize headed by Dr. Bertie Chimilio and the newly formed National Football Association under president, Michael Blease. However, on the international stage that perception might not necessarily hold true. After beating Montserrat 5-2 on June 16^th in the away match of their FIFA World Cup qualifier, Team Belize was forced to stage its home game inside San Pedro Sula, Honduras yesterday since the powers that be refused to have this match staged here in the Jewel. In fact, a 5 man delegation from FIFA should meet with the authorities this Wednesday in an effort to map the way forward. Nevertheless, at 3 p.m. yesterday, it was kickoff time between Belize and Montserrat with a bid to the next round of the FIFA World Cup qualifier at stake.

At the 26^th minute of this ballgame, Daniel Jimenez puts Belize on the scoreboard for a 1-nil lead that gives his team some breathing room. This brought a mighty response from Montserrat after intermission as Jay Lee Hodgson tied the score at the 59^th minute. Two minutes later, Deon McCauley, the author of that hat-trick in game 1 scores an important goal for Belize to make it 2-1. Luis Mendez then gets on to the scoreboard at the 63^rd minute as Belize goes on to post the 3-1 victory over Montserrat—a team they were expected to beat anyway.

Thus Team Belize wins the 2 game series in an 8-3 aggregate and are headed to the next round. On July 30^th, the draw will be held in Brazil on who will be hosting the 2014 World Cup. In the meantime, we understand yesterday’s match will be shown in entirety on Channel 5 right after the news.

In cycling news, over 50 riders suited up for the weekend warriors’ race that left Cotton Tree Primary School yesterday at 8:30 a.m. enroute to Leslie Imports just outside Belize City for some 40 miles. And they’re off.

At Mahogany Heights, we find a 3-man lead which includes Preston Martinez and Wilbert Jones trying to pull out of the pack. The pelathon makes their effort so much more difficult by staying within striking distance in a pretty compact unit.

Going into Hattieville, the lead pack is now 10 strong. And again the pelathon remains persistent in keeping up with the pace. At mile 10, it’s Preston Martinez grabbing the final prize on the route as he beat out Wilbert Jones as Frampton hangs on.

Around Mile 6, we find a spill that takes Dangalang Thurton, Santino Castillo and Andrew Ordonez out of the money. Going down the homestretch, we’ve got a new configuration—Preston Martinez is gone, but we’ve got Amir Gonzalez, Barney Brown, Mark Gentle, Wilbert Jones and John Burns on the pace.

We’re going to the tape now and it’s Barney Brown being challenged by Amir Gonzalez. Brown holds on for top honors forcing Gonzalez into 2^nd, Mark Gentle pulls up 3^rd as Roque Matus rolls in 4^th while Wilbert Jones rounds out the top 5. We say congratulations to all.

In basketball news, the National U-17 Team continues its preparation for the upcoming U-17 Centro Basket in Gurabo Puerto Rico from August 3^rd to the 7^th. Head Coach is Fred Garcia and he is being assisted by Fred Gabourel, Matthew Smiling and Bernie Tarr. Only 12 players will make the trip from the daily workouts. That’s it for sports tonight.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

James Adderley cracks the sports stats

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and welcome to this serving of Sports Monday. Game II of the Belize Bank Super League Championships unfolded on Saturday night at the Michael Ashcroft Stadium at Independence where the Placencia Assassins hosted RG City Boys. The 2-time defending champions from Belize City needed a win to force a decisive game three while the Placencia team was all about closing the show. Folks, we’re barely into the ballgame when Wilmer Garcia picks out an unguarded Ashley Torres who smacks the ball into the net defended by Stanley Reneau for a 5 minute 1-zip lead. Indeed it couldn’t have been a better start for the Assassins who are stalking the Super League title tonight. 2 minutes later, we’re at the other end of the field when Ryan Simpson sends this spotkick into the box. Leon Jones gets a crack at it but his shot is blocked, the ball rebounds to Deon McCauley on the right side and he punches it into the net. The visitors think they’ve leveled the score when the linesman puts up his flag to signal offside. Referee David Jones, then consults with his assistant and voids the goal. We thought it was a good goal because of the scramble inside the penalty area but the referee rules. Meanwhile folks, a packed Michael Ashcroft Stadium was not expecting a loss of electrical power during the event, but 20 minutes in, we experienced a block out that would last for some 15 minutes. To make matter even more interesting, when the game resumes, a downpour descends upon the scene adding more water to a pitch already soaked from previous rains. Nevertheless, Ashley Torres beats Mark Grant in his quest for a 2^nd goal and thinks he has it until referee Jones riles offside. Folks obviously the referee takes too long to intervene in this altercation between Wilmer Garcia and Ian Gaynair. The picture speaks for itself and things could have gotten way out of control. Garcia receives a yellow card for his role and we play on. At the half, the 1-nil lead holds up. We caught up with the Placencia Assassins Captain Dalton Eiley who has been sidelined by a thigh injury for this Championship series. Folks Dalton Eiley must have known what he was talking about because we’re some 3 minutes into the restart when Luis Torres fires this corner kcik into the danger zone and Wilmer Garcia gets to it first and he ships in the header to make it a 2-zip Placencia lead. This excites young Luis Torres and he goes to work looking good all the way until Stanley Reneau meets him at the finish. At the other end, Ryan Simpson to Leon Jones who keeps it alive to Deon McCauley but his launch is rejected by the crossbar. Some 15 minutes into the 2^nd half, Ryan Simpson is taken down by Brent White inside the 18 and referee David Jones rules penalty. Deon McCauley steps up for City Boys and makes it look easy as he pulls one back for his team. It’s City Boys in search of the equalizer now as Tyronne Muschamp fresh off the bench raises the ball over goalkeeper Stephen Lopez but it also sails over the goal. Jason Young then deals to Deon McCauley whose thrust at goal is deflected by Bernard Linares. Belize let me ask you something: when last did you see the fans brave a pouring rain to watch a football game? I take my hat off to the Placencia fans. It’s getting late so Ian Gaynair tries a long distance final but he doesn’t quit making the connection. The hopes of finding the equalizer before the lone whistle are all tied up in this set piece for City Boys. Elroy Kuylen serves up a beauty but 3 City Boys players can’t come up with the contact. The Placencia Assassins holds on to the 2-1 big Wand with that grabbed hold of the 2011 Belize Bank Super League Title. We say congratulations because you deserve it. Turning to female football, the Belize District competition is set to kick off on August 14^th. An all important meeting is being held at the Civic Centre on Saturday August 6^th at 11:00 a.m. and all 8 teams registered must attend. In other football news, from the Mayor’s Cup finals at Dangriga, Southside crushed Youth for the Future 6-1 to claim the 2011 title while New Site edged Leslie’s Commercial 3-2 to take 3^rd place. Woodrow West of Southside walked away with the MVP award. Best Forward and most goals scored, Carlton Thomas took the rookie of the year award, Shane Armstrong; best defense, Anthony Requena; best keeper, Byron Chavez; best midfield and Paul Morgan, best coach. In other football news, the San Pedro Island Football Competition will hold a meeting for participating teams on Tuesday August 2^nd at the Town Board Conference Room at 5:30 p.m. Contact person is Eden “yellow man” Rowley at telephone number 630-0235. Speaking of San Pedro, a massive triathlon is scheduled under the Costa Maya banner this Sunday at 11:00 a.m. that will feature the sprint distances. Contact person to get in is Efrain “Beeps” Phillips. In cricket news, Western Eagles Criket Club knocked off Berlan Cricket Club 92to 86 in a heated affair to clinch a playoff berth in the Smart Herrian Park national Cricket Competition. In other semi-final match between Surprise and Excellence was rained out and is now scheduled for this Saturday, August 6^th at Bermudian landing. The winner will move on to the 3 game finals against Western Eagles. Finally Folks, the Interoffice Basketball all star show took over the Civic on Friday night and while we have the pictures, we don’t have the full stats. What we do know is that Sheldon Williams of Team Police took the slam dunk contest. Evert Orosco of CYDP gave quite a shot to win the 3-point shootout contest beating out Ashton Edwards. Gregg ‘Chippy’ Rudon led team B over team A in a 63 to 57 final score with an impressive 2 doubles of 22 points 11 rebounds. We say congratulations to one and all. Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

James Adderley rounds up all the winners on Sports Monday

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and welcome to this portion of Sports Monday.

With the Alamilla’s/Ministry of Education and Belize Bank Bulldogs already into the semifinal round of the 2011 Interoffice Basketball Competition, 4 teams took the Civic Centre Friday night looking for the final 2 available spots. We caught up with the shootout between CYDP and the Roe Group. Down by 12 points in the 1^st quarter, Kareem Elrington mounts this individual effort that allows him to get 3 points the hard way for the Roe Group. Elrington would lead his team with 15 points, but at the end of the 1^st, the Roe Group is down by 5.

Early into the 2^nd quarter, Dave Apolonio works his magic through traffic for 2 of his 11 game points. However, the reply by CYDP comes from Jermaine Tillett who goes glass, gets the bucket and the foul which he coward into a 3 point play and would total 10 points. Arthur Neal then pulls up from around the charity stripe for 2 of his 9 points. Still at the half, CYDP leads by 6.

In the 3^rd, Jacob Leslie who would lead all plays with 22 points, gives CYDP 3 more points with the and 1. Earl Johnson then makes his presence felt going down the middle of the Roe defense for 3 the hard way. He would put up 17 points tonight and at the end of 3, the CYDP lead is still 6.

In the 4^th, Ryan Bennett helps his team in the hunt by working the glass for 2 of his 10 points. Unfortunately, the Roe Group cannot contain Leslie Jacob who puts CYDP on his back. Here is Leslie with the steal and then he goes all the way for 2—CYDP sends the Roe Group packing in a 77-65 final score.

Meanwhile in the early game, the Port of Belize eliminated Tuff E Nuff in 64-55 finish that saw AC Augustune strike for a 2 doubles of 15 points 20 rebounds. Thus, the 3 game semifinals which begin on Wednesday while Alamilla/Ministry of Education will be matched up with Belize Bank Bulldogs.

In table tennis news, Zhi Chin took the 2011 Summer Table Tennis Tournament staged over the weekend by the BTIA by disposing of Mel Ayuso twice under the double elimination format. Ernesto Rivero then disposed of Tux Vasquez to grab 3^rd place while Nicholas martin handled Amin Vasquez to finish 4^th in the open division. In the 15 and under/Cadet division, Asher Arthurs took the top spot by edging Gian Lisbey while newcomer Yanick Young took home 3^rd place.

Turning to the softball scene, Telemedia wrested the Belize City female softball championship from Mirage Lade Rebels Friday night inside the Rogers Stadium in a 13-6 final score that saw Telemedia score their 13 runs on 14 hits as Mary Flowers picks up the victory.

Meanwhile, the male competition saw Oceana’s Pros easily beating Strikers 11 to 3 on Friday’s schedule. The action continues today at 7 p.m. with Strikers facing Dantos in the opener while Dantos will return in the nightcap to take on Oceana’s Pros. In the meantime, a male all star team has been selected to participate in an international friendly series against Alajuela male Softball Club from San Jose, Costa Rica which gets off Friday, August 12^th at Rogers Stadium.

Now here are the results from the 2^nd annual Island Man triathlon sponsored by Costa Maya at San Pedro over the weekend. In the male individual class, Kent Gabourel took top honors forcing Kenroy Gladden into 2^nd while Jim Scott finished 3^rd. in the female side; Denise Diaz tool the event and in the team category, one love consisting of CEli Jean Grief, Alexander Graniel and Haulze reigned supreme.

In cycling news, Team Belize which participated in the 14^th Vuelta Centroamericana de Provenir staged at Guatemala from the 4^th to the 7^th August returns home today with mixed results. For a 2^nd year in a row, Deezan Spence returns with the Green Sprinter Jersey after establishing himself on the very 1^st day of the tour. However, he finished 45^th overall. In the hour, Belize’s best position came from Aiden Juan at 26^th; Oscar Quiroz was 29^th, Austin Armstrong 43, Kyle Gentle 48 and Juan Umana 49^th.

In the football scene, the Belize District female competition kicks off this Sunday with all 6 teams seeing action at Ladyville. ISL Star FC takes on heats, Millen sees action against Orchids and Tornados will face Untouch.

In news from the Belize City Championship Cup, West Lake crushed Survivals 4-1 and FC Belize burned the B.D.F. 3-1 on penalties after a 4-4 regulation tie. The winners now advance to the 2 game Championship series which begins this Sunday at the MCC Grounds.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

James Adderley’s Sports Monday montage

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this serving of Sports Monday.

After winning 5 straight outings against Belizean Teams, this visiting Alajuela Male Softball Team of Costa Rica took the pitch inside Roger’s Stadium on Saturday against the National Male Team to conclude the tour.

Team Belize takes the lead when Charles Solis pitching for Alajuela serves up this errant grounder that the catcher can’t handle so Densmore Edwards speeds home from 3^rd to put up the 1^st run. Rowland Patrick then hits to bring home another run as Belize takes a 2-zip lead. With 2 on, Shaquille Moody gets this swing past the infield to bring Godoy home from 3^rd to make it 3-zip. We’re in the bottom of the 6^th with 2 runners on when Keith Madrill’s long single brings them home to make it a 5-nil Belize lead.

Now let’s lead to Lord’s Bank where the Belize Bank Female Softball Competition staged its championship match yesterday between U.B. Lady Jaguars and Easy Does It of Flowers Bank. It’s Shandi Orellana on the mound undefeated for U.B. striking out Kathleen Rhaburn to end the top of the 1^st inning scoreless. We’re in the top of the 2^nd when Kendra Rhaburn comes up to bat with 2 runners on and she bits Orellana to bring home to bring home Ana Gillette and then Margaret Hendy come in to give Easy Does It a 2-1 lead.

In the bottom of the 2^nd, U.B. busts this game wide open—Dion Baldwin’s allows Clarencia Jones to come up with a long fly ball that allows Jamilla Bradley to score from 3^rd base. Ayanna Smith then comes up with a long single that brings 2 more runs in. The U.B. catcher Tamira Martinez places this ball out of the centerfielder’s reach as Ayanna Smith and Mertell Bailey score for the Jaguars. Pitcher Godoy then keeps his cause with this double that brings Medrill home. And after 6 innings, Belize is up 6-nil. The visitors finally get on the scoreboard in the top of the 7^th when this roller from Juan Pablo Chinchilla allows the runner from 3^rd to score. Silvio Galdarney then keeps this ball in play to give Costa Rica its 2^nd round. Costa Rica would score 3 runs in top of the 6^th, but it was not enough as Belize gets on to post the 9-4 big W.

Dion Baldwin then gets no defensive help at 1^st base will allows Martinez to score. Shandi Orellano would shut down the East Does It offence after that and here she moves down Amber Wade. U.B. jaguars take the 2011 rural title in a convincing 13-2 blowout and we say congratulations to the new champ. There are not many teams in any sports that can boast an undefeated season so we say to the U.B. Lady Jaguars; when you big, you large.

In football news, Belize District female football competition kicked off at Ladyville yesterday with 3 matches. Island Stars and against Hattieville heats rallied to a scoreless draw. Millennium Girls mashed up Ladyville Orchids 6-nil while Ladyville Tornados blew away untouchables also in a 6-zip final score.

In news from the Belize City, the Champions Cup Finals got underway yesterday at the MCC Grounds. West Lake and FC Belize battled to a 2-2 stalemate. Game 2 comes up this Sunday, August 21^st when the champion will emerge. On the undercard, Yabra will take on San Pedro in an under 15 match-up.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

Sports Monday highlights and next International Football Match

Good evening, I am James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

It appears that the Football Federation of Belize and the Ministry of Sports have arrived at some sort of understanding and the relationship between the two is no longer one of total confrontation even as we speak. The F.F.B. is in full preparation mode to compete in the next round of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers—a long way from the situation that existed in the opening round against Montserrat. By the way folks, the monster matchup between Belize and Guatemala on September 6^th will be aired live right here on Channel 5.

In other football news, week 2 in the Belize District Female Football Competition saw the big clash between Hattieville heats and Ladyville orchids take center stage at Sandhill yesterday. In the early goings, it’s all Hattieville. So Jersha Estrada lets loose this right foot shot that bounces off the goal post. We’re some 10 minutes in when the Ladyville keeper, Karina Villanueva come out of her goal and misplays this ball. Jersha Estrada come up with possession and makes her pay as she smashes the ball into the net for a 1-zip Hattieville lead. Some 8 minutes later, Jersha Estrada works her magic again when she picks up this loose ball and out runs the orchids defense to smash one past Villanueva to double the lead for Hattieville.

Estrada then looks for the hat trick but this time she is denied by Villanueva. Make it 3-nil

Hattieville when Estrada turns provided for Irma Dyer who does enough to get it past the goalkeeper into the net. In 2^nd half, the Heats should have come up with a 4^th goal off this set piece but they come away empty. Meanwhile, the Ladyville orchids finally get some defense from off this spot kick triggered by Loida Contreras, but goalkeeper Marin of Hattieville takes care of business. Hattieville Heats would go on to post the 3-zip Big W!

In other action around the league, Island Starz out shone Tornados in a 2-1 final score, while Millennium doubled Sandhill Untouchables in a 4-2 affair.

Checking the basketball scene, we go in the decisive game 3 between CYDP and the Port of Belize in Friday night’s interoffice semifinals inside the civic center. And it’s Andrew Head Staine with the triple to extend the CYDP lead to 9 in the 2^nd quarter. Staine would put up 16 pts in this one. Vince the Postman Estrada then somehow hits AC Augustine who goes glass for 2-AC would record 12 rebounds and 9 pts in this game 3.

At the halfway mark, CYDP boasts a 10 pt lead over Port. Down by 13 in the 3^rd, the Port goes to neil Nicholson who should have gotten the deuce on his 1^st chance but gets his rebound to make it good. Nicholson would put up 11 points tonight. Lennox Flush Bowman then hits this nice one hander in traffic for 2 of his team high 17 points. In the 4^th, Angus Walla Cherrington deals to Flush Bowman who knocks down the long 3 writing a 15 point deficit to one. And then he gives Port its first lead with this baseline move. We’ve tried at 58 apiece take in the 4^th when Andrew Staine finds Leon Mister Biggs Williams and he delivers the bucket. Meanwhile, this steal by Andrew Staine from Neil Nicholson really hurts the Port as Staine scores the easy 2. And then Staine seals the win for CYDOP with this left hand off the glass as CYDP sends the Port of Belize packing a 72-66 final score. In the nightcap must win match between Belize Bank and Alamilla’s Rupert Brown who hits the here stuck for a game high 20 points. As Belize Bank eliminated Alamilla’s 69 to 58. Thus the 5 game finals between Belize Bank and CYDP gets off this Friday night.

Turning to the softball scene, the 21^st national Women’s Softball Championship gets off on Friday, August 26^th and concludes on Sunday august 28^th inside roger’s Stadium. The 6 teams making the big dance are Belize City Champion, Telemedia and sub-champion, Mirage Lady Rebels, Belize Rural Champ, UB Jaguars and runner up, Easy Does It. The defending National Champions and current Cayo Sistrcit Champs Roaring Creek Grace Kennedy and sub-champions Ontario Rebels. Mirage Lady rebels will face Roaring Creek Grace Kennedy in the opener on August 26^th at 6:30 p.m. and in the nightcap, UB Jaguars take aim at Telemedia.

Jah Overall, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

James “Jah Overall” Adderley’s Sports Monday Update

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and welcome to this issue of Sports Monday.

The 21^st Women’s national Softball Championship raged inside Roger’s Stadium over the weekend as 6 teams battled to wear the crown in 2011 as the action got off on Saturday. However, by Sunday afternoon, only 2 remained standing under the double elimination format—namely arch rivals Telemedia and Mirage lady Rebels. The Rebels start with Lanisha Jones on the mound and we’re in the top of the 1^st with one out and one on when Barbara Cadle doubles the outfield to bring in the 1^st run of the ballgame. Meanwhile Mary Flowers gets off to a shaky start and is smacked hard by Marsha Cassasola but is bailed out by the score hands of Martha Rhys.

In the 2^nd, Lanisha Jones gets busy as she gets Ruth Lamb to Pop up to share the Vernon. She strikes out Martha Rhys and then does the same to the Telemedia shortstop Elaine Humes. In the bottom of the 2^nd, Mary Flowers leaves one hanging for Lisa Jones who is denied a hit by this fine catch from Lydia Cacho. Ashanti Anderson comes to bat for Lady Rebels in the bottom of 4^th with Lisa Jones at 2^nd and her long single brings the runner home to tie the score at 1 apiece. Telemedia breaks the tie when Kyla McFadzean hits this ball to Sharette Vernon only to see Sherette Jones fail to dig out the throw to first as Elaine Humes scores all the way from 1^st for the 2-1 lead. In the top of the 6^th, Telemedia’s Barbara Cadle hits this long fly which allows Norecia Frazier to score from 3^rd base for the 3-1 lead.

We’re in the bottom of the 7^th and its Lady Rebels trying to manufacture the tie, but Mary Flowers forces Shaleen Humphries to ground to 3^rd baseman, Norecia Frazier whose throw to Erline Belisle at 1^st is good for the out and Telemedia becomes the 2011 undefeated national Champions with the 3-1 score. And here is veteran catcher, Ruth Lamb receiving the team trophy and Sir Rudolph Anderson hail the man.

Amber Wade of Easy Does it won the stolen base award with 3. Norecia Frazer of Telemedia hit 2 homeruns to take home that award. Norecia also batted 11 runs to win the runs batted title, while Sherette Jones of Mirage lady rebels had a batting average .500 to lead the tournament. On the pitching side, Lanisha Jones of Lady Rebels had 11 strikeouts to win that category and Mary Flowers of Telemedia had the most wins with 4. New give it up for Norecia Frazier of Telemedia who walked away with the MVP award. We say congrats to one and all.

In cycling news, the annual Jerry “Ganzie” Jones Memorial race was staged yesterday by Gerald Garbutt presenting 3 different categories. Gregg Lovell of Santino was impressive winning the elite 68 mile race while Brandon Cattouse of C-Ray pulls up 2^nd and Darnell Barrow of Sanitno’s takes 3^rd in a field sprint. In the 10 Ml Mountain bike race, Andrew Ordonez of Horizon took top honors, Fred Usher of Kolbe took 2^nd and Kenroy Gladden settled for 3^rd. in the 10 mile weekend Warrior event, Vallan Syms of Horizon took 1^st, Kenneth Butler of M&M finished 2^nd and Wilbert Jones of F.T. Williams pulled up 3^rd. In the 60 mile weekend warrior race, Rogue Matus of M&M grabbed the big Win, Barney Brown of F.T. Williams finished 2^nd and Rey Catt took 3^rd place.

Turning to the cricket scene, Lemonal was the scene on Saturday where Western Eagles were hoping to force a game 3 in the Belize national Cricket championship against Surprise. However Surprise came out sizzling. Chris Banner came up with 24 runs, while team captain Lawrence Banner had 21 runs. Edward Bull emerged the man of the match after taking our 6 wicket while landy Banner came up with 3. Surprise batted 154 runs while Western Eagles could only muster 67 runs all out. Thus for 2 years in a row, Surprise is National Cricket Champs and we say congratulations.

In basketball news, the interoffice 5 game championship kicked off Friday night inside the Civic Centre. We’re late in the 2^nd quarter when Darwin Elijio deals to Andrew Head Staine who goes glass for 2, gets fouled but would miss the extra point as CYDP runs to 16 pts lead out Belize Bank Bulldogs. In the 3^rd, Bulldogs roared back—Rupert Brown spots up for three and he knocks it down, he would put up 18 points tonight. Darwin Leslie who would contribute 15 points then slices to the glass for 2 and will get 3 the old fashion way as he knocks dow3n the freebie. This three point shot by Rupert Brown then gives the Bulldogs their first lead for the night as they take a 43-41 lead into the 4^th quarter.

In overtime, the Belize Bank Bulldogs go on to post the 80-76 big W. In a game 1 on the undercard, a depleted Port of Belize was pounded 86 – 58 by Alamilla’s.

Finally in football news, the national A –team of Belize travels to Grenada tomorrow for its first match of the second round of the World Cup Qualifiers set for Friday, 2^nd September, so stay tuned. Meanwhile, the Belize versus Guatemala match is set for Tuesday, four p.m. inside the F.F.B. football field and it will be aired live right here on Channel 5. We also must tell you that in female football played over the weekend, Millennium edged Island Stars 1-zip, Untouchables hurt Ladyville Orchids, 2-1 and Hattieville Heats stopped Tornados 3-2.

Jah overall, I’m James Adderley.

James Adderley’s Earth-Shattering Sports Roundup

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

Tomorrow, Tuesday 6^th September, the National A Team of Belize will host its Guatemalan counterparts inside the FFB Field at Capital City, Belmopan in its second appearance of this round of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. Our Team goes in hype from Friday evening’s 3-zip win over Grenada on the road. While Guatemala comes in fresh off a 4-zip win at St. Vincent. In this group, Guatemala is ranked 113^th by FIFA, Grenada is 118, Belize 148 and St. Vincent 158. It’s plain to see that the road to the next round for Belize leads through Guatemala. Tomorrow in a ballgame to be televised live on Channel 5. Belize must come up with a positive result to keep alive its hope of advancing because 2^nd place will not be good enough. Of course win loose or draw, I’m a Belizean and I know you are too.

In other football news, the play in Belize District, the female football competition over the weekend saw Millennium cool down Hattieville Heats in a 4-1 blast. Tornadoes blew away Orchids 5-1 while Island Stars got the freebie from Untouchables who did not show up. Meanwhile, Kulture Yabra beat Lake 3-1 and then blanked Plaza 2-zip to win the 1^st ever 40 and over tournament at the MCC Grounds yesterday. Plaza defeated Lake 6-nil to finish in 2^nd place.

Now let’s get to the Barracks where the Lionman Triathlon took center stage yesterday. And in the 1.5 kilometer opening swim we find 3 athletes fighting to get the win as Dr. Ramon Figueroa puts on the after burners to grab that distinction. Next out is another veteran, Jim Scott, while young Eric Donis becomes the 3^rd swimmer to exit the Caribbean Sea. All three swimmers are competing in the team relay today.

Jose Choto is 4^th out of the water as he beats his archrival in the individual class. Kenroy Smoke Gladden who has improved his performance in the water. Of course, on the female side in both the individual class and the relay event is Belize’s premier female athlete Shalini Zabaneh is the first female to complete the first leg in order to transition to the bike. Meanwhile Giovanni Froggy Leslie is the first to complete 25 miles of biking but his team would not make it into the winner circle. Nevertheless, the 1^st athlete in the individual class to finish the ride is former champ, Jose Choto and we see him putting on his sneakers for the final leg which features a 10 km run. Not far behind is Kenroy Gladden who knows that Jose Choto is the man to beat today.

And of course on the ladies side Shalini Zabaneh has quickly established herself as the undisputed front runner. Kevin Seroki si the first to compelte the course but he competes in the Team Relay. The man who would wear the 2011 Lionman title is Kenroy Gladden who gained all of 9 minutes over Jose Choto to win on on overall time of 2 hours 31 minutes flat.

Jose Choto settles for 2^nd place this year with a total time of 2 hours 38 minutes. In the meantime, Magdalena Chubb fell victim to exhaustion going to the tape and we’re grateful that the organizers were prepared for this eventuality. Nevertheless on the female side, Shalini Zabaneh was superb grabbing the female title rather easily and in fact her total time of 2 hours 44 minutes 5 seconds was good enough for 3^rd place.

Meanwhile, Kevin Seroki who along with Shalini Zabaneh and Brandon Cattouse comprise Team Sagitun crosses the line to give his team a total time of 2 hours 19 minutes 23 seconds which made the team the champion in the team relay. Team Spectrum Design consisting of Denise Diaz, Wilbert Jones and Louis Haulze took 2^nd place with a time of 2 hoursm 25 minuites 16 seconds while C-Ray Bed Intentions with Kaya Cattouse, Eric Davis and Kent Gabourel settled for 3^rd place with a time of 2 hours 29 minutes 32 seconds.

In cycling news, the Belize Cirty Council and Leslie’s Imports Criterium takes center stage this Sunday, September 11^th 2011 through the streets of downtown Belize City. 5 Categories are offered and registration must be done with the Belize Cycling Association before Thursday September 8^th.

Finally folks, game 3 of the Interoffice Basketball League unfolded Friday night inside the Civic Center. Belize Bank Bulldogs got a fame high 14 points from Macaro Augustine and 12 from Rupert Brown to knock off CYDP in 53-47 finish. For CYDP, Andrew Staine put up 13 points and Marcel Orosco added 10 in the loss. Thus with 2 wins and a loss the Belize Bank can close out the 5 game Championship series this Friday night at the Civic Centre.

Jah overall, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Sports Monday with James “Jah Over All” Adderley

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The 2^nd Annual Belize City Council and Leslie’s Imports September Belize City Criterium took to the streets of the Metropolis yesterday as a part of the National Celebrations program and we are at the start of the 35 mile elite race staged on the Albert Street – Regent Street circuit. 33 riders are suited up in this class and we’re underway as 35 laps of the criterium begin.

In the early going, Marlon Castillo decides to demonstrate his prowess as he opts for a solo flight. A couple laps later it’s still Marlon Castillo on the pace, but a chase group led by Brandon Cattouse and the C-Ray team has mounted a concerted effort to reel him in. Late in the race, the chase group dwindles to Brandon Cattouse, Chris McNish, Jeovaun Leslie and Tariq Cano. Meanwhile some 23 riders in this bunch are trying to complete the cross over to the chase 4.

Folks, for the 1^st time in a criterium that I can remember a rider goes wire to wire as Marlon Castillo again riding for Santino’s re-establishes himself as the strongest in the business crossing the finish line unchallenged to win the race in 1 hour 18 minutes flat. U-23 rider, Tariq Cano of team Indeco takes 2^nd two minutes 15 seconds and almost a lap later in uncontested fashion. And then Brandon Cattouse of C-Ray beats Chris McNish of Benny’s Megabytes and Jeovaun Leslie of SAntino’s to round out the top 5.

In the juniors and youth class, Oscar Quiros of Cayo Uprising grabbed the big W easily as he dresses to win. Riss Cattouse of C-Ray takes 2^nd—52 seconds later by out-sprinting Steven Casteneda, Zahir Figueroa—both of Cayo Uprising—while Joslyn Chavarria of Clear the Land rounds out yjr top 5.

On the ladies side, Shalini Zabaneh continues her dominance in female cycling winning the 15 mile race in 40 minutes 43 seconds after facing a strong challenge from Patricia Chavarria of Benny’s Megabytes who took second. Kirah Eiley of Smooth Sailing pulled up 3^rd with Kaya Cattouse rounding out the top 4.

In the BTL Youth Development Program 4 Mile race, Kory Ingram takes the top spot while Delawn Abraham finished 2^nd and Keron Faber 3^rd. Meanwhile Tragan Humes won the BTL 2 miler with Clifford Dortch 2^nd and Jamal Hyde 3^rd.

In news from the Commonwealth Youth Games at the Isle of Man, Joel Borland finished 34^th in the 45 miles time trial event with an average speed of 24.7 miles per hour and Juan Umana 39^th with his average speed of 23.4 miles per hour. Belize placed 12 in the team time trial with a time of 22.2 miles per hour. In the 61.1 mile road race, Joel Borland gave Belize its best finish at 31^st. in the criterium ride, Joel Borland finished 21^st.

Turning to the basketball scene; we take you to the civic centre for game 4 of the Interoffice Basketball Championship with CYDP needing a win to force a decisive game 5 against the favorite Belize Bank Bulldogs. From the opening buzzer, CYDP demonstrated its determination as Andrew Staine penetrated the heart of Belize Bank’s defense to open the scoring with 2 of his 11 game points. Meanwhile Marcel Orosco is on top of things tonight as he strikes for 3 in his first shot attempt. Marcel would lead his team with 17 points. It’s all CYDP until Rupert Brown strips Staine and goes all the way for 2 of his game high 18 points. No other Bulldog would put up double digit scoring tonight. At the end of the 1^st quarter, CYDP boats a 22 to 14 lead.

In the 2^nd, CYDP extends the lead. Jermaine Tillett inbounds to Staine and he gets 2 more. Jacob Leslie spots up for the long deuce and hits it—he would put up 16 points tonight. Marcel Orosco then knocks down the triple and at the half and CYDP is up by 19 points.

We fast forward to the 4^th and its still CYDP running away with this one as Justin Wade pulls up for 2. CYDP goes on to blow-out the Belize Bank Bulldogs in a 72 to 54 final score. Thus the decisive game 5 is set for this Friday night at the civic.

Jah Over All, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Sports Monday with Heavy Weight James Adderley

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

Stop the press, Shalini ZAbaneh in her first trip to the Caribbean Cycling Championship has struck for gold in the Women Elite Road Race staged yesterday at Jamaica. In a 7 woman sprint, Shalini burned the field completing the 6 laps, 43.2 mile ride in 2 hours 3.5 minutes to step into the winners circle. In addition, the Belizean cyclist took the bronze in the 12 mile women time trial course. After dominating the female cycling scene in the Jewel, Shalini has given notice to the Caribbean and we say congratulations. Roger Troyer competed in the men’s 72 mile road race, but did not finish.

Now in boozing news, a Guatemalan boxing team of 6 took on the Leopold Smart Boxing Gym inside the Princess Hotel Saturday night and won the series 3-2 with one fight being declared a technical draw because of a low blow. Nuff respect must be given to Sherman Galvez who forced a referee stoppage in the 2^nd round of his battle with Sanabria and give it up for Alex Neal who made amends for his last outing by stopping Carlos Tellos in the 2^nd round. Leopold Smart Boxing Gym gives thanks to the sponsor Telemedia and to the supporters who attended the fight. We’ll do it again soon.

Now let’s head to the Civic Centre for Friday night decisive Game 5 in the Interoffice Basketball Championship series. Down by 6 in the 2^nd quarter, the Belize Bank stops the bleeding when Macaro Augustine comes with the put back for 2 of his 6 game points. At the other end, CYDP’s Marcel Orosco rises up for three to keep the pressure on. He would put up 9 points tonight. In the closing seconds of the quarter, Darwin Leslie comes up with this loose ball and gets 2 of his game high 35 points to cut the deficit to 4 points. At the half, CYDP leads 30 to 26. In the 3^rd, Darwin Leslie stays hot but as he knocks down the 3 pointer to tie the ballgame at 34 apiece. It’s brother against brother so Jacob Leslie fires back with this big time 3 point shot. He would lead CYDP with 18 points. We’re in the 4^th when Rupert Brown threads the needle to Darwin Leslie who delivers. Down by 8 points, CYDP Leon Williams stays with this play until he gets the bucket Mr. Biggs would finish with 10 points tonight. Andrew Staine then comes into the ballgame to help his team close the gap and he lays up 2 of his 13 game points. In the waning moments of the ballgame, Andrew Staine sinks this three to cut CYDP’s deficit to 2 – it wasn’t enough as the Belize Bank Bulldogs hang on to the 68-65 big W to claim the 2011 Interoffice title. Darwin Leslie who totaled 35 points, 4 assists and 5 steals in Game 5 emerged with MVP honors.

Turning to the track and field scene, for the 1^st time in our history people so many turned out for the annual 5K and 10K marathon staged on Saturday.

It appears the Belize City Council’s involvement in running for health is now reaping huge dividends. And here is the start of the 5K marathon on Regent Street and you can bet your bottom dollar that’s a large number of participants. In fact even Mayor Moya suited up for the event and here is the start of the 10K run. Leon O’brien won the men’s 10K and we say good show. Kenrick Duncan took 2^nd place while Jesus Mai pulled up 3^rd. on the woman’s side; Shannon White took the number 1 spot, Janice Usher steps up to 2^nd place while Tasmeen Tewogbola took 3^rd place in the 10K. Meanwhile Denroy Nembhard emerged victor in the 5K run. Wilhem Leslie receives his medal for 2^nd place Hance Card takes home 3^rd. In the woman 5K it was all Carr’s in the winners’ circle. Ashantie Carr takes 1^st place and we say congratulations. In fact, here they are together, Ashantie Carr, Ajahni Carr and Ashantie Carr who finished 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd in woman’s 5K. And we must say the new Belize amateur athletics Association and the Belize City Council has done a remarkable job in getting our people to run. Congrats.

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Sports Monday with Legendary Guru, James Adderley

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and here’s the sporting news.

The National Football Team of Belize will make a home stand at the F.F.B. Stadium this Friday, October 7th at 3:30 p.m. against Grenada whom they defeated 3-1 in the away game last month. Going in, Belize finds itself in 2nd place with 3 points after losing 2-1 to Guatemala. In this group, Guatemala leads with 6 points from 2 wins, Belize has 3, so does St. Vincent as both have won 1 and lost 1 while Grenada remains in the cellar with 0 points from 2 outings. The group winner advances to the next round of FIFA’s World Cup Qualifiers so Belize must win this Friday to stay within striking distance.

In the meantime, a new premier ball league which will produce the players to represent Belize in FIFA play and will be affiliated to the F.F.B. is being formed after last week’s meeting between the Ministry of Sports, 2 FIFA Representatives, the F.F.B. and other interested football organizations. Election of officers for this top league will be held on the 28th of October so stay tuned.

Now let’s head to Sandhill where the Belize District Female Football Competition staged week 6 by presenting 3 matches despite the terrible conditions that existed. To the monsoon rains affected the event, but at least the pitch should have been moved. Nevertheless, the opening match finds Ladyville Tornados in action against Caye Caulker and we’re in the very 1st minute of play when Claudia Martinez leads this attack for Ladyville only to be taken down by Maribel Dominguez for which the referee rules penalty.

Up steps Marcelina Mai and Maribel Dominguez in goal for Caye Caulker doesn’t stand a chance as the Ladyville team goes up 1-zip. A couple minutes later, this outside shot from Bailey should have scored but Dominguez rescued by the sorry conditions inside the goal. It’s another face off between Bailey and Dominguez on this press and this time the goalkeeper helps herself. At the other end, Lilian Joseph fires this right foot shot that hits the near upright and then is dug out by Sherrie Gillette and at the half, it’s still a 1-zip Ladyville lead. We’re in the 2nd half when Lilian Joseph fires this shot in search of the equalizer only to see it inch outside the sticks. Ladyville Tornados double their lead when the defensive error gives Natasha Young this chance which she converts to get on to the scoreboard.

Now keep your eyes on this corner kick; Natasha Young keeps it alive to Julie McCord who makes it a 3-zip ballgame. McCord then gets this one on one look for a 2nd goal but she seems to have been caught between 2 decisions. Still Ladyville Jaguars go on to post the 3-zip Big W.

Meanwhile, Game 2 finds Hattieville Heats in action against Ladyville Orchids and we’re only 10 minutes in when Jersha Estrada forces one through the legs of Esperanza Pakeman to give Hattieville the 1-zip lead. 15 minutes later Felecia Gillette mounts this individual effort to punch the pill past Pakeman as the Heats double their lead. Make it 3-zip when Lauren Stevens fires this spotkick that Pakeman should have handled – instead it tangles inside the net. In early 2nd half play, Sylvanna Barrow concedes a penalty by taking down Karina Viamil inside the 18. Lloyda Contreras steps up to get Ladyville Orchids on to the scoreboard only to be denied by the Ladyville keeper. Kelsey Pou then commits this hardball inside the bottom and again it’s penalty kick for the Orchids. Again it’s Lloyda Contreras up for the mconversion and again she scores to make it a 3-1 ballgame. However, this defensive error by Shakira Clarke gives Ashiya Gordon a look at goal and she gives Hattieville a 4-1 lead. Felicia Gillette then comes up with her 2nd goal of the match off this corner kick as Hattieville Heats burn Ladyville Orchids 5 to 1. In the final match on the schedule, Millennium routed Sandhill Untouchables in a 10-zip blast. The competition now moves to Hattieville for this Sunday with Millennium facing Island Stars, Ladyville Orchids take on Untouchables and Hattieville Heats will host Ladyville Tornados.

Checking the over 40 football scenes at the MCC Grounds yesterday’s action saw Plaza edge Creative Tiles 4-3 while Kulture Yabra blanked Survival 6-nil.

In cycling news, here’s the sprint to the tape in the 38 mile weekend Warrior Race that finished inside Camalote and it’s all Cayo Rental in the spotlight. Frank Burns takes the event in 1 hour 52 minutes 30 seconds, Jose Moguel in 2nd, Geoffrey Waight 3rd, Philip Burns 4th and here comes George Abraham of FT Williams to round out the top 5. Dean Boyce finished 6th overall and 1st in C-Class.

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Sports Tuesday with the multifaceted James Adderley

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

Much has been said about Friday’s disaster inside the FFB Stadium where an over-confident Belize National Football Selection was unceremoniously knocked off its high horse by a 4-1 blast from their Grenadian counterpart – a team they had blanked 3-zip in the away game of this 2-game series inside the 20145 FIFA World Cup qualifier. Added to the bad attitude was the soggy pitch inside the FFB Stadium – a result from the torrential downpour – and it quickly became obvious that the local team was unable to perform properly in a mud and water affair. We must also take into account that Team Grenada had strengthened up its lineup and more importantly was extremely focused on avenging the 3-zip defeat.

Belize 1st threat and goal comes some 25 minutes in when Danny Jimenez tries to link up with Deon McCauley but Josh Charles comes up with a timely intervention. Again Belize looks potent with Jimenez who centers to Kafu Roches who heads to Deon McCauley, but the striker could not keep the launch down. Meanwhile, on the next press, McCauley does everything right in search for a goal only to be denied by Josh Charles. Folks we’re some 42 minutes in when Shane gets this shot off despite being surrounded by 3 blue shirts and the right foot launch surprisingly beats Shane Orio as Grenada takes a 1-zip lead. Just before the half expires, Ian Gaynair gofts this ball to Marcus Julien in front of the Belize goal and his right away shot easily beats Orio for the 2-zip lead. On a soggy field, you don’t pass inside the box.

5 minutes into the 2nd half, Craig Rocastle finds Lancaster Joseph off this set piece and Joseph takes advantage of poor marking inside the 18 to nod the ball in for the 3-zip Grenada lead. Down by 3, the Belize team lost its composure and normally Kafu Roches would have converted this chance but today everything is working against us. Kafu then tries to make amends with monster launch only to see Josh Charles come up with the best save of the match. Our team continues to press for a goal as Deon McCauley fires this left foot bomb that crashes offt he crossbar as the drought continues. Folks, goal number 4 by Grenada simply adds insult to injury – Dalton Eiley should have come up with the block but even worse the save; however, Clive Murray’s left foot squeeze make it a 4-nil showing. Immediately the fans start abandoning the stadium and if I could have left, I would have too. In the waning minute of the ballgame, Ryan Simpson off the bench triggers this grass head burner that beats Josh Charles as Belize gets the consolation goal in the 4-1 loss.

It’s a bitter pill to swallow especially after the high expectation the nation had going into this match. Nevertheless, our team had no time to lick their wounds as they took the bus Saturday morning headed to Guatemala City for tonight’s matchup with Guatemala. People we might have lost the most important moment in our quest to reach the World Stage.

In other football news, play in the Belize District Female Football League saw Sherry Tracey come up with a pair of goals and Christina Joseph added another as Millennium rolled our Island Stars 3-1. The Island’s only goal came from the boots of Lilian Joseph. meanwhile in Game 2, Loida Contreras led Ladyville Orchids to its 1st win; scoring the only goal of the match to beat Untouchables 1-zip. And then Hattieville Heats and Ladyville Tornados battled to a 1-1 tie. Ashlyn Gordon scored for the Heats while Marcelina Mai hit for Tornados.

In cycling news, the BCA presented the 7th Orange Walk Bypass Criterium yesterday and the visiting Depredadores Team from Mexico swept the top 3 spots with Hector Rangul, Carlos Hernandez and Eduardo Lada finishing in that order. Jose Choto of Western Spirit was the 1st Belizean to finish grabbing 4th in 1 minute 36 seconds off the pace. Big Mighty Lewis took the Master Class with Barney Brown 2nd and Ritchie Halton rounds out the top 3. Oscar Quiros of Cayo Uprising took the Junior and Youth Class with teammate, Juan Umana 2nd and Johnny Quintal of Depredadores took 3rd place. In the Tim Mites Class, Michael Escobar grabbed the Win with Geron Lovell and Cory Rodriguez finishing 2nd and 3rd respectively. The Belize Cycling Association reminds the cycling community that the Sagitun Classic is set for November 13th, 2011.

In other cycling news, the veterans in the Weekend Warriors staged two events at Punta Gorda over the weekend sponsored by BWEL. Floyd Williams took Saturdays 30 mile Criterium in 1 hour 25 minutes 27 seconds with George Abraham 2nd while Orin Jones rounds out the top 3 from among 12 riders. Dean Boyce finished 4th. We mention Boyce because on Sunday this C Class rider controlled the pace in the road race from Tide Belize to Big Falls and back – a distance of 39 miles. Here he ius being trailed by Chris Romero and George Abraham. George Abraham then opted for a solo flight but here is Boyce reeling him in. It’s a 3 man race to the tape, but Boyce steps out to take the ride in 1 hour, 52 minutes 55 seconds with George Abraham finishing 2nd and Chris Romero 3rd. 14 riders took part.

Finally in table tennis news, play in the Brothers Habet Team League on Saturday saw Rivero’s Welders crush Luz 5-2. Hurricane blanked Suga City 5-zip and Racqueteers mashed up No Mercy by that same score all in 1 divisional play. In 2nd divisional action, Garage H 2 handles Turds in 5-zip finish while BDF Spin Kings edged Fantastic Four, 5-4.

Jah Over All, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

New Angles in Sports Broadcasting with James Adderley

The National Male Football Team can only be described as over achievers after posting a record 3 wins, 3 losses so far in the 2014 World Cup Qualifiers. In fact, it is absolutely amazing how the nation has raised its expectations this time around. However, as far as the team goes, very little has changed. The F.F.B. continues to be the only source of sponsorship and it has become obvious that mush more financing is needed if we are to reach world class status. As a people, we must come together to support our players who are doing the best they can under these circumstances. Both the government and the private sector must join with the football federation to push our team to the next level. But football success is not cheap and it does not happen by accident. With Belize obviously not making it to the next round, it’s time for us to come up with concrete plans for the 2018 World Cup. In the meantime, Belize concludes play in the 1st round with 2 matches against St. Vincent that comes up on November 11th and 18th.

In other football news, we took in yesterday over 40 football at the MCC grounds as Plaza hosted Survivors. We’re some 21 minutes in when Norman Bommel braces Shadrick Gentle and then deals to Stanley Reneau who easily beats Bernard as Plaza takes a 1-zip lead. Plaza gets the chance to double the lead when Limbo Velasquez pushes this right foot at goal but this time Bernard O’gay is well positioned. A few minutes later, Limbo Velasquez exacts a sweet revenge with this right foot pinch that gives Plaza a 2-zip lead.

Midway through the 2nd half, Gentle hands the ball inside the 18 and the referee rules penalty. Up steps Larry Flowers for the conversion but is denied but goalkeeper O’gay who might not have known much about it. However, when Hazart Rowland tries to head to his keeper on this particular play, O’gay can’t come up with the possession which leads to the dreaded auto-goal for the 3-zip Plaza lead. Nevertheless, this corner kick by Survivors leads to a defensive hand ball that brings a penalty kick. The old veteran, Fabian Rivero, former teammate of mine, steps up and he easily beats Valentine Ferguson to get Survivors on the scoreboard in the 3-1 final score.

In track and field news, the expulsion of President Ian Gray from the Belize Amateur Athletics Association Saturday in a Special General Meeting at the Sylvestre Memorial Center came a shock to the nation especially with travel plans to the Pan Am Games at Mexico already set. Here is interim President, Deon Sutherland with the details

Deon Sutherland, Interim President, BAAA

“We have been having some problems over the past twelve months with Mister Gray’s activities. The straw the broke the camel’s back was the selection of the Pan Am Athletes and officials and we decided as the managing committee that we must do something about that. The athletes when they heard about the selection they called us and said look; the coach that has been selected is not our senior coach and he has not worked with us over the months to prepare us for the Pan Am Games and we have a problem with that. We met with the athletes and they decided they want the original coach, Mister Fred Evans. We put that to Mister Gray and he was adamant that his selection is final and the athletes had no say on that.”

Kay-De Vaughn, Athlete

“I will be competing in the triple jump. I expect to do really well; I’ve been training from last October for this event so I’m very excited. I am hoping for a P.R. and to even qualify for the finals. My personal best is 12.11 meters so I am hoping to jump anything above that. But I think 12.30 will definitely put me where I want to be. And I hopefully could be bringing home a medal.”

Tricia Flores, Athlete

“My record for the long jump is 5.97 meters and I’m hoping to jump over 6 meters which will also be a national record. So I’m hoping to do that at the games. I put in a lot of practice at the track and at the gym. I work very high in trying to jump as far as possible. In terms of medaling, I’m not quite sure about that, but I believe if I get a 6 meters jump, hopefully I can get a medal.”

Finally, the 2011 Brother’s Habet Team League of Table Tennis continues to roll inside the BES Auditorium. In fast and furious action yesterday, first division play saw Hurricane edge Luz in a sizzling 5-4 final score. And then Garage beat Hurricane 5-3. In 2nd division, Tallawah smashed Terminators 5-2, Fantastic Four crushed Jet Amp 5-1, Tallawah then made it 2 wins by thumping Turds 5-zip, B.D.F. Spin King prevcailed over Jet Amps 5-2, Fantastic Four dazzles Terminators 5-3 and Garage #2 burned BDF Spin King 5-4.

By the way folks, the date for the Sagitun Cycling Classic as presented by the BCA is now set for 27th November, 2011 at Independence. So stay tuned.

Jah Over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Sports Monday with James Adderley

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The 3^rd Annual Day of Races as presented by the UWI Open Campus yesterday reigned supreme on Marine Parade in what has become a fixture on the BCA’s calendar. Lining up for the main event in the Elite and U-23 class are 23 of Belize’s finest as they roll out for the 20 mile criterium ride that features a mile per lap. This 3 man crew of Marlon Castillo, David Henderson and Gregory Lovell quickly takes command of the pace and do make it stick at around 22.43 mph. However, when the spring to the tape comes up, controversy rears its ugly head. To your right, Lovell attacks from the outside but cuts across the lane being occupied by David Henderson. It’s an infringement of the rules of the game for which he is disqualified. David Henderson of Team Indeco takes the Win in 53 mins 29 secs while Marlon Castillo of Santino’s moves up to 2^nd place. Allen Castillo of Indeco rolls in uncontested for 3^rd place 28 secs off the pace. Jeovain Leslie of Santino’s who for a time was in the lead pulls up for 4^th 59 seconds behind the winner. While Geon Hanson of Indeco round out the top 5.

In the Junior 10 mile race that features 17 riders, the finish finds a head on collision between Austin Armstrong and Aiden Juan. Armstrong of D&D Consultancy edges Juan of Cayo High Road for the W with both clocked at 78 mins 50 secs. Adrian Lineras of Cayo High Road pulls up unchallenged for 3^rd place. The veteran Preston Martinez had a good outing in 10 mile Masters Class that featured 14 riders—winning the 6 man sprint easily after setting a time of 28 mins 17 secs. He forces Ernest Meighan of Santino’s into 2^nd while Robert Stewart grabs 3^rd place.

Riding unattached Patricia Chavarria takes the women’s 10 miles in 33:28 while Kirah Eiley grabs 2^nd place 12 seconds later. Meanwhile, Zahir Figueroa of Sacred Heart High proves a cut above the rest in the 10 mile race for High School males grabbing the Win in 14:06. 17 seconds later the 3 man sprint for 2^nd palce ensues and its Delawn Abraham of Canaan edging out Brandon Morgan and Gian Zetina in that order.

Maria Bennet of Georgeville Primary proved too much for her challengers in the half mile ride as she takes the event in 1:17. Paulita Chavarria of Sacred Heart High finishes 2^nd and for a 2^nd year in a row, Dyanne Cleland gets into the winner’s circle with a 3^rd place finish. In the meantime, her brother, Charleston Cleland repeats as champion in the primary schools male ½ mile race with a time of 2:22. Darien Anderson of Anglican Cathedral High pulls up 2^nd. David Versus rounds out the top 3. Folks we take this opportunity to give kudos to Misses Jane Bennett of UWI Open Campus for this novel idea of weaving competitive cycling at all levels into the University picture. You see if you don’t have dreams they can’t come true.

In other cycling news, the 7^th Annual Sagitun Banana Classic is set for 27^th November in the 3 major categories. This race brings with it over $15,000 in prizes. The technical meeting will be held on Thursday, 24^th November, 7 p.m. at the NOC Conference Room after the technical meeting or at the start of the race.

In karate news, the House of Shotokan Karate Championship was staged Saturday at the BES Auditorium and the mixed martial arts content proved to be entertaining. Folks this is the battle for the Championship and black belt, Fernando Salam of the Southern Shotokan Academy in Dangriga wastes no time to establish his presence. His opponent, Eddermys Sanchez responds with this wicked take down but Salam quickly reverses the hold until the umpire intervenes. In the end, Salam is just too strong and his technique much too disciplined for Sanchez. A heavy breathing Salam gets his hand raised as champion while Sanchez settles for the runner up spot. Nevertheless Eddermys Sanchez came up with the roughest move of the tournament in his battle to get into the finals as he puts this cruel move on Vry Aamino of Mexico. In the battle for the 14-16 years karate title, this move by Deon Lewis hust his chances to claim the championship as Martin Sylvestre moves in to land a left foot to his opponent’s jaw. Sylvestre gets the win and we say congratulations. Other winners include: Nathan Sharp who got the nod over Emiliano Ruedas. London Cocom got the title over Ethan Santos in the 7-9 years old class. While Angelean Paredes picked up the female 6-7 years old title in a close fight with Xaria Cleland.

In football news, Smart Millenium picked up its 8^th straight win in the Belize District Female Football Competition yesterday with a 1-zip win over Tornadoes. Hattieville stepped up to 2^nd place with 1-zip blast on Untouchables while Island Stars kept pace with a 5-zip drubbing of Ladyville Orchids. In news from Dangriga, the B.T.L. Male U-15 finals staged over the weekend saw DYFA bomb Southside 2-zip to emerge the champions. In the earlier match, Pomona grabbed 3^rd place by sinking Santa Martha 3-zip. Meanwhile, the female title will be decided this weekend when Benguche takes on Pumas.

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The National Male Football Team of Belize kicks off its final series in this round of the 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers on Friday November 11th inside the FFB Stadium against St. Vincent and the Grenadines. While Belize will not make it to the next round having lost 3 matches in a row, it is imperative for the development of the sport that they come up with a good performance. In fact, the fans are demanding a win. At the same time on Friday, Guatemala who have already qualified to move on will go up against Grenada. A 2nd lace finish in this group would positively further Belize’s am at World Class football.

We now head to the MCC grounds where the over 40 tournament is kicking up a storm here in the city. On yesterday’s ticker Plaza faced a strong challenge from Creative tiles. Some 14minutes in, Leinbo Velasquez gives Plaza the earl lead b beating Richard Lopez to this ball and then effectively displaces goalkeeper Marvin Ottley to open the scoreboard. Plaza then looks to make it 2 nil on this press but this time Ottley takes care of big. Around the 23^rd minute this hardball inside the 18 provokes a penalty call from the referee in favour of Creative Tiles. Orlando Vega steps up for the conversion and this left foot ties the ballgame at 1 apiece. We’re easily into the 2^nd half when this defensive error by Plaza gives possession to, of all persons, Landy Vega and again the left foot push tangles into net as Creative Tiles take a 2-1 lead. 10 minutes later, Mark Gentle gets this perfect feed from the left side—all he has to do is to tap it into an empty goal—he does and we have a 2-2 ballgame.

Now folks, this is a strange play; Gentle beats the goalkeeper to this ball and swings it at goal—Creative Tiles defender, Richard Lopez get there in time but his header crashes into the net for the dreaded auto-goal. Plaza goes on to post the 3-2 big W.

Now let’s check in on the Belize District 2011 championship currently in session at the MCC Grounds. In the U-17 matchup, Devaughn Zuniga unleashes this bomb from atop the 18 to give Smart Brown Bombers a 1-zip lead over Hattieville. Hattieville comes back when Richard Wright with is push out from the keeper and he smacks it home for the 1-1 tie. Nevertheless, Smart Brown Bombers would get goals from Steven Goff and Calvin Young to post the 3-1 Victory. In the U-20 matchup, Complex Admirals FC knocked off San Pedro 3-1 and at the U-15 Class, Rising Stars FC blanked Smart Brown Bombers 2-zip.

In news from the Belize District, female football competition yesterday, Tornadoes blanked Ladyville Orchids 5-zip, Island Stars shook up Untouchables 2-nil while Hattieville Heats defaulted to Millennium.

In basketball news, we caught up with the Belmopan Competition at the Hilltop Court where the 3 game semi finals got off. It’s Campari Blaze in action against Superstars who get rolling when Jarrel Velasquez gets them going with this triple—he would strike for eleven points. Campari Blaze’s reply comes from point guard, Alden Coleman with this runner for 2 of his 14 game points. Coleman then sets up Raul Roches with the alley oop but he banks it off the backboard. Roches will put up a 2 doubles of 15 points 15 rebounds. Jay Chavarria then throws up the underhand for 2 of his 15 points as Campari goes up by 5. At the other end, Alfred Bainton picks up this loose ball, gets the bucket and is fouled—he goes to the line and completes the 3 point play. Bainton would lead all scores with 19 points in this one. Dorian Jones comes right back for Campari Blaze with this left hand for 2 of his team high 17 points. Give Alfred Bainton some props people as he strikes for 3 to make it a 1 point ball game and Superstars would take the lead in the 3^rd. However, good passing by Campari blaze gave them the 73-66 Big W.

Western Ballers blew past Phantom 75-48 after getting 16 points and 16 bopards from Kurt Burgess—both game highs. Marco O’brien added 15 points while Shannon Guzman threw up 11 in the Big W. Both temas meet again Thursday night at Capital City to renew hostility so stay tuned.

Jah Over All, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

James Adderley’s groundbreaking Sports Update

Good Evening I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The semi-final round of the Belize District Female Football Competition got off with a bang yesterday at the Ladyville Football Field with all 4 teams seeing action. So we take you inside Game 1 of the double header that matched Caye Caulker Islanders and Hattieville Heats and we’re early into the action when Angie Lima comes up with an excellent 1st touch to launch this bouncer over a poorly positioned Kadijah Marin to give the stars a 1-zip lead. Hattieville tries to respond with this press that gives Deandra Coote a good look at goal but she pulls it a bit too much.

So we go to 2nd half and 5 minutes in Jersha Estrada fires this set piece and despite a gallant effort from Maribel Dominguez, Estrada tries the ballgame at 1 apiece. However, the Stars regain the lead 6 minutes later when Jersha Enriquez finds Lilian Joseph and the League’s leading goal getter does what she does best to give her team the 2-1 lead and notch her 12^th goal of the season. Caye Caulker seals the win when Angie Lima, the set piece specialist, fires this spot kick that Deandra Coote mishandles and it beats Kadijah as the Stars shine to a 3-1 big W!

So now we go to the nightcap match between SMART Millennium and Ladyville Tornadoes and we’ve been reliably informed it’s Tornadors and not Tornadoes. Sarah Arzu looks to give Millennium the early lead with this long distance dial but it’s right at Emeldia Alarcon. On the next press, Sherain Tracy let this left foot fly away but the good centre in front of the goal goes unattended. Sarah Arzu then works her way through traffic to fire this right foot at goal but the keeper Alarcon somehow digs it out. However, it’s Tornadors with the best chance to score when Julie McCord works her way into a 1 on 1 situation with goalkeeper but squanders the opportunity by looking for the good foot and at the half, it’s a scoreless ballgame.

We’re fresh into the 2^nd half when Sherian Tracy gets this look at goal only to be denied by goalkeeper Alarcon. It’s Tracy again with the chance to score and this time she raises the pill over the crossbar from point blank range. In the meantime, give Ermeldia Alarcon some props for coming up with this big time save. Here’s a bit of controversy. Alarcon deals out some pain to the streaking Kara Kisling who nevertheless finds the back of the net but the goal is ignored by the referee for a spot kick which failed to produce the required result.

A few minutes later, Sherrain Tracy gets her 10 season goal with this left right foot push that gives the SMART team the 1-zip lead. Make it 2-nil when Cayetano pushes this ball past Alarcon who should have come up with this one. And that’s the way it ended as SMART Millennium gets the Win. Looking ahead, this best of two series continues this Sunday, November 27^th at the MCC Grounds with the Stars taking on the Heats and Millennium faces Tornadors.

In 5-a-side football news, play in the San Jose Succotz U-13 competition on Saturday saw All Stars blank Nazarene Scorpions 3-nil and Manchester United blasted Real FC. Now here’s a bit of good news: Belize Rural High represented Belize in the 3^rd Central American and Caribbean Scholars Games in Panama and got into the finals by defeating Guatemala 12-3 and beating Panama 11-7. However, Venezuela got the 7-4 win in the Gold medal Game forcing Belize into silver. It’s a good showing for Belize in its first appearance at these games and the team returns tomorrow, Tuesday.

In cycling news, the 7^th Annual Sagitun Banana Classic is set to blast off this Sunday, 27^th November with races in all the recognized categories. Here’s a reminder that there will be no registration after the technical meeting on Thursday, November 24^th. The venue will be announced later so stay tuned.

Channel 5

James Adderley cycles through Sagitun Banana Classic

Good Evening I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The lucrative Sagitun Banana Cycle Classic was the rage yesterday inside Independence as the best in the business converged on this Southern enclave in search of glory. Even the Sagitun Sponsors was on the ball with this costumed mascot that was all banana. As we pan the start of the 55 mile elite race we find the usual going of suspects who will give form and substance to an event that has become a staple on the yearly calendar of the Belize Cycling Association. Of course there always will be pretenders in the hunt especially in a field some 50 riders deep.

And yes they’re off! It’s a 5 lap ride and in the early goings this 8 man pack tries to execute the big time break. On the 2nd lap, Giovanni Choto is the man on the pace leading a group of 8 riders. Nevertheless the main bunch remains in striking distance some 30 seconds behind. As we check into the final lap we find this 7 man lead that includes Erwin Middleton, Herman Requena, Giovanni Choto, Allen Castillo, Patrick Bennett, Darnell Barrow and Leroy Cassasola. So here’s the sprint to the tape and it’s Darnell Barrow of Santino’s with the win in 2 hrs 15 mins 53 secs. Choto of Western Spirit then comes behind to edge out Allen Castillo of benny’s Megabytes. Patrick Bennett of Santino pulls up 4th while Indeco’s Erwin Middleton finishes 5th. Herman Requena of Benny’s settles for 6th.

In the Master’s Class, Ernest Meighan of Santino’s edges out C-Rays Luigi Urbina while Barney Brown takes 3rd place with Big Mike Lewis 4th in the 33 mile ride that was clocked at 1 hr 25 mins 51 secs. In the meantime, we slow things down for you to get a glimpse of Shalini Zabaneh, Belize’s Best Female rider taking the female 33 mile ride in 1 hr 42 mins 59 secs. 34 seconds later, Patricia Chavarria pulls up for 2nd while Kaya Cattouse of C-Ray grabs 3rd place. In the sprint for the Junior 44 Mile race, no one had an answer to the burst from Austin Armstrong who takes the event in 1 hr 54 mins 50 secs, forcing Deezan Spence and Aiden Juan into 2nd and 3rd respectively. Aiden Juan nevertheless took the Youth Category with Giovanni Lovell 2nd and Philton Butler 3rd. the next big event on the cycling calendar is the New Years Cycle Classic so stay tuned.

Turning to football news, let’s head to the MCC Grounds to find out who would make it to the Belize District Female Football Championship as the semi-final round reached it’s conclusion. After loosing 3-1 last week to Caye Caulker Island Stars, the Hattieville Heats came out focused as displayed by Jersha Estrada who beats the defence only to be denied by goalkeeper, Maribel Dominguez. Nevertheless, it’s the Islanders goal getter, Lillian Joseph, who beats an ill positioned Kadijah Marin with this bouncer that gives Caye Caulker the 1-zip lead as she comes up with her league leading 13 goals. However, Ashlyn Gordon outruns the entire Islanders defence a couple minutes later to tie the ballgame at 1 apiece. It would end that way which gives Island Stars the pass to the championship series with a 4-2 aggregate. So we go to the other semi-final match with SMART Millennium taking on Ladyville Tornadors after posting the 1-zip Win last Sunday.

Folks these 2 ball clubs are evenly matched bitter rivals and with a lot at stake, things could get sticky quickly. On this press, Christine Avila should have opened the scoreboard but the header sails high. However, we’re still early in the ballgame when Kersha Pollard dials this set piece from long distance that crashes into the net to give the SMART Team 1-zip lead and post her 8th goal scored of the season. Kersha Pollard then looks for a 2nd goal with this right foot launch but this time Emeldia Alarcon rejects that bid. But here comes controversy. Sarah Arzu looks to launch a right foot, Gloria Garcia of Ladyville beats her to the ball and Arzu hits her heel hard. Referee Spooners Hall issues a yellow card on the challenge which causes the Tornadors to become incensed. Things take a turn for the worse when Alma Alarcon is issued a yellow card disputing the call. She insists and is red-carded. The goalkeeper pushes the referee in the head and then Dawn Bainton almost hits him in the face and the game has to be called off. Millennium gets another 1-zip Win and are off to the Championship Round.

Thus this Sunday out at Caye Caulker it’s SMART Millennium against Island Stars at 2:30 p.m.

Checking in on the National Primary Schools Volleyball Championships staged at the Civic Center over the weekend, 6 male teams and 6 female teams battled for their respective titles. Victorious Nazarene rolled over Little Flowers RC in 2 straight sets 28-26, 25-18 to take the male title while Chan Pine Ridge beat Burrell Boom Methodist 25-21, 25-17 to finish 3rd.

In female play, Holy Angels of Stann Creek beat Little Flowers of Toledo 25-23, 16-25, 16-14 in 3 sets to claim the title while Belize Elementary got past Chan Pine Ridge in 2—25-18, 25-16to grab 3^rd place. Trcilyn Choc of Holy Angels emerged the female MVP while Roel Uck of Chan Pine Ridge took Male MVP honors.

Jah Over All, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Sports Monday with James Adderley

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The Central Secondary School Sports Association Basketball Competition has been kicking up dust lately inside Belize City so we journeyed to the Civic Centre Friday night to find out which 2 teams would round out the final four since St. John’s College and Wesley College had already made the cut. Friday’s opener found E.P. Yorke facing Nazarene High School and in the opening quarter, Anthony Neal banks this throw off the glass to give Nazarene a 2 pt lead. He would lead all scorers with 21 pts. We’re in the 2nd quarter when Benjamin Hyde hooks up with Alejandro Baptist down low who gets 2 of his 13 points as Nazarene takes a 6 pt lead. On this press, the point guard Hyde again makes a good decision by dealing to Anthony Neal who delivers the bucket. Down by 6, E.P. Yorke goes to Cordel Gonzalez who sinks the three off the pass from Daniel Sanchez. E.P. Yorke shows good teamwork when Gonzalez finds Tarique Gabb who comes up with a cheeky pass that allows Gabriel Taylor to get 2 pts and would sink that and 1 for 3 the hard way. Taylor would put up 11 pts. Gabb then displays his formidable skills slicing through the defence for 2 of his game high 24 points. And then Gabb knocks down this 3 point shot to give his team 1 point lead late in the quarter. Tyler Myvette hands E.P. Yorke its biggest lead of the ballgame by knocking down this triple—Myvette would contribute 12 points to the cause.

However, this bucket by the streaking Kevin Popper gives E.P. Yorke a 9 pt lead to take into the 4^th. In the 4^th, Nazarene gets going—Anthony Neal gets the easy bucket off the Popper miss shot. This 3 point dagger by Marvin Martinez threatens to derail the Nazarene run, but Taulib Marin finds himself at the right place at the right time to answer with an uncontested bucket of his own. Tyrell Ramclam then comes up with a big shot in traffic for Nazarene. Ramclam would put up 12 pts. Alejandro Baptist then takes it on himself to earn 3 pts the old fashioned way as the run continues. And of course, this easy bucket by the unattended Taulib Marin seals the win for Nazarene High as they go on to post the 71-66 big Win and are now headed to the playoffs.

Nazarene tries to come back when Taulib Marin comes up with this loose ball to get 2 of his 12 points. The semifinals got underway tonight at the Civic with St. John’s College losing to Nazarene in a do or die attention. Tomorrow Tuesday, Sadie Vernon comes out against Wesley College.

Turning to the football scene, the Belize District Female Football Championship series was postponed over the weekend due to the weather. So this Sunday, game 1 between SMART Millennium and Island Stars kicks off at Caye Caulker at 2:30 p.m. Meanwhile, the Hattieville United Youth Sporting Club presents Christmas Cup 2011—an under 15 and an under-17 football marathon this Saturday, December 10^th at the Hattieville Football Field. To get in contact, telephone 624-5790 or 669-4330.

In cycling news, the Alpheus Williams Aids Classic is scheduled for this Sunday, December 11^th, however, details remain unavailable. In the meantime folks, the defending champions, undefeated Sadie Vernon had an easy time against an overmatched Excelsior Team in the nightcap. Lincey Lopez finds Andrew Ortiz and the deuce in automatic, Ortiz strikes for 10 points in this one. Now it’s Lincey Lopez’s turn as he gets the outlet pass to score 2 of his team high 22 pts. Deon Roches wants 3, Deon Roches gets 3—he would finish with 14 pts. It’s this easy for Sadie Vernon as Kashief Thomas comes up with the steal to find Lincey Lopez who gets 2 more. At the end of 1, the defending champ is up 24 to 9 and it would only get worse for Excelsior. In fact folks, the only highlight for Excelsior was the play of Hayword Hulse who scores 25 of Excelsior’s 45 points in the 96 to 45 rout and Sadie Vernon now has a chance to repeat.

Finally in Interoffice Softball play at the Rogers Stadium on Saturday. Babba Shop Kit Kat walloped KHMH in a 22-15 score that saw G. Munnings get the Win while the loss was tagged to Shawnie Andrews.

Jah Over All, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Hitting Sports Monday

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

It was a chilly morning inside Capital City, Belmopan yesterday as 56 elite riders assembled for the blastoff of the 14^th Annual Alpheus Williams Cycle Classic sponsored this year by the Ministry of health and UBDP. Among the hopefuls is the sole female rider, Shalini Zabaneh, who would create a tsunami if she could emerge with the Win. When we rejoin the race on the western Highway, it quickly becomes obvious that with the prevailing climatic condition and the paved highway and the 48.6 miles involved, today’s ride would be swift and highly competitive. Around mile 40, this bunch of some 15 riders endeavor to extricate themselves from the main pelathon but were never a real threat for the breakaway. Nevertheless, these 2 under 23 riders—David Henderson and Kyne Gentle decide to gamble so they up the pace from 28 miles an hour to 30 miles per hour.

When this deadly duo flashed past the mile 12 signpost, they’re still in control of the pace. However, this determined chase pack of 14 riders have them in their sight and do believe the 20 second lead is manageable. Still at the police booth, some 4½ miles out of the city, Henderson and Gentle still rile the ride and indeed their cooperative spirit keeps them in the lead. We’re headed to the finish line when all that ends as the battle for supremacy begins. David Henderson of Team Indeco has the lead and the inside lane. Kyne Gentle of D&D Consultancy tries to overtake, but that was not about to happen as David Henderson wins the 14^th edition and Kyne Gentle settles for second place. Both were timed at 1:42:53 which eclipses the record set by 5 time winner, Greg Lovell and Juan Umana. They also picked up the prizes in the U-23 class. 23 seconds later, Byron Pope of Benny’s Megabytes gets no challenge for 3^rd place from Marlon Castillo of Santino’s who rolls in 4^th.

Folks the real spring came 39 seconds after the winner as 11 riders battled to round out the top 5 and it’s the speedster and defending champion, Greg Lovell of Santino’s who gets that honor. Just in case you’re wondering, Shalini Zabaneh, Belize’s best female cyclist, riding in the male elite class finished 42^nd just 6 minutes 12 seconds off the pace. This allowed Kirah Eiley of Cray to pick up the female win with teammate Kaya Cattouse finishing 3^rd. At the masters level, Kenroy Gladden set a new record by winning in his classification with a time of 1 hr. 5 mins 4 seconds forcing Santino, the cChief Castillo into 2^nd while Steven Bisseh rounds out the top 3. At the junior level, it was Oscar Quiros of Cayo Uprising with the win while Deezan Spence of Twin Towns Cycling took the Juniors Class. The next big event is the New Years day Cycling Classic and all indicators are it’s going to be a monster.

In other cycling news, the Weekend Warriors Hell of the West held yesterday shows that Philip Burns of Cayo Rentals took top honors in 2 hrs. 11 mins 18 seconds beating out the Horizon riders; Andrew Papa Brown and Andrew Ordonez in that order. Weekend Warriors races are set for this Sunday, December 18^th so stay tuned.

Now let’s check in on the National Athletics Meet staged at the MCC Grounds on Saturday. We’re at the start of the Men’s 100 meters. Keep your eyes on the man in black in lane 6, Mark Anderson, as he fights off a strong challenge from Brandon Flores in lane 2 to win the event in 11.10 seconds while Jervis Lambey finishes 3^rd. Now here’s the female 100 and Kaina Martinez, the Central American Gold medalist, proves she’s still the best as she posts a time of 12.10 to beat out Chanelle Enriquez and Tiffany Welch in that order. In the discus throw, this throw of 30.94 meters by Justin Awe gives him the win.

On the female side, Central American Gold Medalist, Gloria Serano, took the discus throw with this launch of 29.69 meters. Another Central American Gold medalist strutted her stuff as Trecia Flores posted a distance of 5.64 to claim the long jump title while Kenneth Brackett’s distance of 6.9 meters on this jump gave him the male title.

In basketball news, Sadie Vernon repeated as champion in the Central Division High Schools Basketball Championship by rolling over St. John’s College in a wonderful ballgame at the Civic Centre Friday night that saw SJC get swept in 2.

Kashief Thomas who led the way in Thursday night’s 85-70 win got his first bucket some 5 minutes into the confrontation. Devin Daley was on top of his game for SJC earning 3 pts the old fashioned way with this slick move. Nevertheless this triple by Devin Peyrefitte gives SJV a left at the end of the 1^st quarter—they’re up 27 to 18. In the 2^nd, Sadie Vernon comes back—Lincey Lopez knocks down this tough bucket. Big man Andrew Ortiz then comes up with this monster rebound to sink the put back. It’s more Ortiz when Thomas finds himself in heavy traffic and he does deliver 3 big points. Thomas wants three; Thomas gets three as Sadie Vernon begins to roll. At the half SJC clings to a 1 point lead.

Finally in football news, we say congratulations to the Hattieville Youth Sporting Club for that successful marathon staged on Saturday. At the U-15 class, SMART Brown Bombers pm the finals with a 5-1 while at the U-17 level, it was the host team, Hattieville United Youth Sports Club with the 3-1 bashing of SMART Brown Bombers to take that title. Sorry about the tap guys.

Jah over All, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

James Adderley’s pre-Christmas Sports update

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The national Secondary Schools Sporting Association proudly presented its national basketball tournament at San Pedro inside the Angel Nunez Auditorium on Saturday and we join the championship match between San Pedro High and Sadie Vernon Tech of Belize City as Andrew Ortiz faces Charles Richards to tip things off. It’s a great start for San Pedro as Afrie Kyle Black opens the scoreboard with this nice lay off the glass. Sadie Vernon gets the reply from Podrick Williams who stays with this play until he delivers 2 of his 15 game points. Jamel Ashton Jones then hits this bucket for San Pedro—he would finish with 18 pts ad at the end of the 1^st quarter, the host team trails 22 to 20. In the 2^nd, Sadie Vernon creates some distance as Kashief Thomas dishes to Andrew Ortiz who hits 2 of his 20 points right here and would also pull 9 boards. At the other end, Michael Quan’s reverse is good—he would strike for 17 pts. On defense, Sadie Vernon displays its edge as Ryan Michael hands Fernando Ariel a rejection slip. Michael Quan then finds Charles Richards with the no look pass and the big man finishes. Richards would lead his team with 21 pts and 14 rebounds to post the only 2 doubles of the match up.

This gives Sadie Vernon’s big man more motivation so Andrew Ortiz replies with this monster 2 hand jam. At the half, Sadie Vernon is up 48-36. The big man war continues into the 3^rd quarter and we must say Charles Richards is impressive. Nevertheless, Sadie Vernon wouldn’t look back—Kashief Thomas sinks this rough bucket for 2 of his game high 27 pts but his 11 turnovers might have taken him out of the MVP picture. Here he lands the 3 pointer but he would hit 500 24 from beyond the arc and that’s simply unacceptable. Despite the fact that San Pedro only got 2 pts off turnovers, at the end of the 3^rd, Sadie Vernon extends the lead to 17. Sadie Vernon goes on to win this one 82-68 and we say congratulations to Andrew Ortiz who emerged with the MVP honors.

On the female side, Saint Catherine’s Academy of Belize City had an easy time against Muffles College of Orange Walk and it’s Golda Estrada jumping against Deja Cunnings at the tip off. Kersha Pollard got St. Catherine’s going hitting 7 game points. However, it was Gilda Estrada who puts Catherine’s on her back—scoring 15 of her total 30 points. Here she is going behind her back to put up 2 more points as St. Catherine’s goes on to win 30 to 13 and are the national female high school champions. Naturally, Gilda Estrada was voted most valuable player and we say congrats to one and all.

Turning to football news, the Belize District Female Competition completed its championship series at the MCC Groudns yesterday with the Island Stars of Caye Caulker going in having host game 1 to Smart Millennium in a 6-zip blast. Actually, very little changed from the previous outing and we’re some 13 minutes in when Sherian Tracy mounts this individual effort to open the scoreboard and give Millennium a 1-zip lead. Some 4 minutes later, Kersha Pollard, yes the same one on the St. Catherine’s Basketball team, fires this right foot that gives Millennium a 2-zip lead to take into intermission. Things fall apart for Caye Caulker in the 2^nd half. Sherian Tracy outruns the Island’s defense to launch this right foot splice for the 3-zip lead. 3 minutes later, Tracy does it again and again. Maribel Dominguez can’t come up with the stop and its 4-zip. Sarah Arzu then gets into the act with this nice run and a good finish to make it 5-nil. Kersha Pollard comes back for more by out-running Angie Luna to make it 6 to nothing. Sherian Tracy becomes providers for Kaya Cattouse with this check pass and Cattouse gets on to the scoreboard to make it 7-zip. And it’s Kersha Pollard with the hat trick when she smacks the pill into net to seal the 8-zip victory and with that Smart Millennium is the Belize District Champs. Kudos girls. We also want to congratulate Lillian Joseph of island Stars who finished with 12 goals to lead the league in scoring.

Meanwhile the Belize City over 40 finals between Kulture Yabra and Plaza was a bit of a let down after last week’s sizzling semi-final round. We’re in the ballgame when Norman Nunez who had an impressive outing sets table for Steve Young and Gellys opens the scoreboard with this cruel grass head burner that beats Valentine Ferguson for the 1-zip lead. Now watch the veteran Tilliman Nunez launch this left foot from long distance that crashes into the net to make it 2-nil. It’s more Nunez when he launches the right foot shot that Ferguson should have handles—he doesn’t and Kulture Yabra takes a 3-zip lead into intermission. Meanwhile we’re fresh into 2^nd half when Tilliman triggers this corner kick and finds David McCauley who unleashes a head that gives Kulture Yabra the 4-zip lead. This score holds up to long whistle and Kuture Yabra is champion of the over 40 in 2011. Hey guys when you’re big, you’re large.

In cycling news, the weekend warriors race staged Sunday saw David Madrid of Santino’s win the event while Wolrick Thurton of Truckers finished 2^nd and his teammate, Steve Gill, rounds out the top 3 in the 28 mile C class race. In the big 50 mile race, the golden one, Ernest Meighan took the 3 man sprint to the tape to grab top honors and beat two Horizon riders, Vallan Symms and Andrew Brown, in that order. They were clocked at 2 hrs 15 mins 50 secs. The next big road warrior race comes up on January 8^th in a race they call the New Years Day Classic. The Real New Years Day Classic sponsored by Krem comes on New Years Day so stay tuned.

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Sports Monday sprints into the New Year

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and welcome to this our 1^st issue of Sports Monday for the year 2012.

The New Years Day Cycle Classic as presented by the Belize Cycling Association in collaboration with KREM was the rage this Sunday featuring some 80 riders overall in the various categories. We’re at the start of the elite class at the Belize/Mexico Border in Santa Elena Corozal with 62 riders suited up for the 91.4 mile race that kicks off the New Year. Immediately into the action these 2 riders; Byron Pope and Geovanni Choto, seek to break out of the pack with this particular push—the pelathon at this time deems the move to be insignificant or at least manageable. However, as the duo streak into Corozal Town, it becomes obvious that they’re lead is serious about running away.

Still 3 riders have joined the duo as the race heads into San Pablo. John Delong, Marlon Castillo and Peter Choto are now part of the lead group of 5. things get even more interesting when we checked in on the race outside Orange Walk as 3 more riders have crossed over to expand the lead pack to 8—namely Edward Reyes, now on the pace, Leroy Cassasola and Nissan Arana. For a 2^nd year in a row, Nissan Arana seizes the $1000 prize inside Orange Walk Town to the delight of his hometown fans, but for a 2^nd year in a row his bid for the overall win would be compromised.

24 seconds later, this chase pack led by Chris Harkey continue their stalking of the lead 8. And they gobbled up Nissan Arana who now bears the telltale signs of an immense struggle to keep up. Around Mile 40, we find the lead pack now featuring: Edward Reyes, Leroy Cassasola, Giovanni Choto, John Delong, Peter Choto and Byron Pope—6 strong. This is when the current record holder of this event, Marlon Castillo attempts to risk a solo flight in a head wind. In 2009, Castillo posted his record time of 3 hours 29 minutes 55 seconds. Castillo speed to his bet solo lead of 2 minutes 47 seconds in his 20 mile run. At Sand Hill, Marlon’s ill-advised run ends after some 20 miles and here he is now labouring in the back of the lead pack now 7 riders strong. Castillo apparently recovers enough to mount this attack around the airport road. But speeding up front is Giovanni Choto who launches his own one man run and would never be caught. And here is Giovanni Choto of Western Spirit winning the 2012 edition of this KREM Classic in 3 hours 43 minutes 10 seconds. The other rider who went wire to wire with Choto, Byron Pope of Benny’s Megabytes, takes 2^nd place 31 seconds later. Under 23 rider, Peter Choto, of Western Spirit rolls in for 3^rd overall. John Delong of Veloshine Cycling Team settles for 4^th while Edward Perez of D & D Cycling rounds out the top 5.

Meanwhile folks, on the ladies side, a major upset was pulled off by Kaya Cattouse of C-Ray in the 55 mile race as she edges the great Shalini Zabaneh in a sprint to claim the New Years 2012 title. Patricia Chavarria beat out Gabrielle Lovell for 3^rd place in this one. At master’s level, it was Manuel Herrera Bustos of the Mexican Team; Depredadores with the win, his teammate Carlos Castelan de la Torres took 2^nd while Robery Stewart of M & M Engineering rounds out the top 3. In the Junior Class, it was Oscar Quiros Jr. Of Cayo Uprising with the W, Deezan Spence of D & D Cycling took 2^nd and Zahir Figueroa of Cayo Uprising rounds out the top 3. The next big event on the Cycling calendar is the Valentine Classic set for February 12^th.

Finally folks, the National Volleyball Association will be participating in the World Championship Qualification Tournament and the Central American Championship in both male and female class in 2012. These tryouts will be staged at the Belize City Center on Saturday and Sunday 7^th and 8^th January and 14^th and 15 January. Interested players should contact BVA at BelizeVB@yahoo.com

Jah Over all I’m James Adderely.

Channel 5

James Adderley speeds with cyclists to victory

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

While the movers and shakers in the football world try to establish an organized administrative structure, the beat still goes on with the launching of the Belize Bank Cup 2 weeks ago. Yesterday, we caught up with week 2 in this 4 team, single round robin tournament as RG City Boys took aim at Westlake inside the Ladyville football field. In the opening minutes, Westlake launches this press as Alex Faber deals to Gilroy Thurton who is denied by Elden Linarez in goal for City Boys who claimed Thurton was in as offside position. Same 2 minutes later Westlake opens the scoreboard off this defensive miscue that gives possession to Travis Eiley and he makes them pay as Westlake takes a 1-zip lead. City Boys looks for the equalizer when Ryan Simpson picks out Delroy Andrews with this crucial pass but the striker displays a timing problem. At the other end, Gilroy Thurton looks to double the Westlake lead with this individual effort that finds him pulling down Nigel Franklin to launch this feeble right foot that wouldn’t get past goalkeeper Linarez.

In the meantime, Elden Linarez is forced to come up with a big time save off this set piece triggered by Lorenzo Diaz and he does. For Michael Hernandez his bid to double the Westlake lead is foiled by a push too far and Linarez does well again in the City Boys goal. 10 minutes into the 2^nd half, Jason Young tries to surprise Stanley Reneau with this trick shot in heavy traffic only to see his former keeper come up with a finger tip save. Folks this spot kick launched into the danger zone by Nigel Franklin sees Dwayne Simpson smash this loose ball against Shannon Flowers the deflection beats Reneau and just like that we have a 1-1 ballgame. It’s late in the ballgame and Travis Eiley gets the chance to give Westlake the lead in this one on one with Elden Linarez but this push is certainly not worth the effort. Lorenzo Diaz also gets a turn to give Westlake the big W, however, the left foot slices wide and the ballgame is settled in a 1-1 stalemate.

In the other match, Rural Stars blanked FC Belize in a 1-zip game. thus after 2 outings, Rural All Stars leads the Belize Bank Cup with 4 pts, City Boys shows 2 and so does West Lake while FC Belize has 1 point to show. This Sunday at Ladyville, Westlake takes on Rural All Stars and FC Belize battles RG City Boys. The 2 teams with th4e best record after week 3 will meet on week 4 for the Belize Bank title.

Turning to the Cycle scene, the elder statesmen in the sport suited up for the weekend warriors’ version of the New Year race—a 48 mile ride that left the Orange Walk Town hall and finished at the M&M Engineering Office on the Northern Highway. Around Ml. 40, it’s Raymond Hyde looking to run away from the pack with this main pelathon deed set against that particular objective. It’s Andrew Poppa Brown and Ernest Meighan who break out of the pack in search of Hyde. Nevertheless, at Ml. 17, Raymond Hyde remains the sole protagonist. Of course the chase pack does remains within striking distance as it gets closer to money time. Nevertheless, Hyde would not falter and here he is claiming the victory for team Santino’s in 2 hrs 27 mins 33 secs and we say congratulations to Raymond Hyde.

Now here’s the sprint for 2^nd place and it’s Barney Brown of Scotia Bank on outside grabbing that position, Warren Coye of Horizon takes 3^rd while Ernest Meighan and Ronald Sutherland both of Santino’s round out the top 5. Meanwhile the B Class race which got off 5 minutes after the A Class race saw Dean Belisle of BCB/FT Williams power across the finish line to claim the win in 2 hrs 44 mins 8 secs. Perry Gibson of AAA Loans has to settle for 2^nd and Leroy Vargas of Truckers takes 3^rd.

Channel 5

Sports Monday with Veteran Sportscaster

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The heavy downpour over the weekend rendered the Ladyville Football Field more suitable to water sports than the Belize Bank Xmas Cup of Football so week 3 of the 4 week campaign was forced to come to the MCC Grounds yesterday. It’s Westlake who came in with 1 point from 2 outings in control against Old Road United early in the opener as Byron Usher tries to float this ball into the far corner but misses the target. At the other end, Gilroy Thurton moves Jerome Madril out the way to fire this right foot bomb that forces Elvis Hercules into a big time save. A minute later, Jarret Davis triggers this corner kick that is poorly defended by Old Road – the loose ball finds Devon Marin and he smashes it into the net for the 1-zip Westlake lead.

It’s more Westlake when Gilroy Thurton picks out Andres Marin with this left foot pass and Marin punches it with power past goalkeeper Hercules as Westlake takes a 2-zip lead in 1st half play. However, Old Road United keeps at it and sought for results when Jermain Gotoy centers to Samuel Leslie whose attempt is stopped by Stanley Reneau but Jerome Madril streaks in to smash home the loose ball for the 2-1 deficit. In the meantime, we empathize with Jose Caceres on this move as he falls victim to the soggy condition of the pitch.

In 2nd half play, Jarret Davis fires this low cruise missile with bad intentions only to see goalkeeper, Elvis Hercules smother the chance. On this shot by Andres Marin, the ball bounces loose from Hercules so Gilroy Thurton pounces but the referee rules he fouled the keeper. Meanwhile, this shot by Samuel Leslie beats Stanley Reneau – not to worry, Sannon Flowers bails him out in time. Westlake hangs on to the 2-1 Big Win and it’s enough to see them through to next Sunday’s Championship game and Ladyville where they’ll again face Old Road United this time for all the marbles. City Boys and FC Belize drew themselves out of the money with a 2-2 stalemate in the nightcap. Old Belize finishes with 5 points, Westlake 4 while City Boys and FC Belize conclude with 3 points.

Turning to cycling news, the weekend warriors presented a 40 mile race yesterday from Cotton Tree to Leslie’s Imports on the Western highway. At Ml. 10, it’s Ernest meighan on the pace and looking like he’s in charge. However, at Burton Canal, the main pack has reassembled with Kenroy Gladden up front. At the police substation, we find some 30 riders with a chance at the Big Win as they begin to jockey for position. Going to the tape it’s Team Stewart on the pace – but watch Ernest Meighan of Santino’s get up off his bike to wrest the victory from Team Stewart of M&M Engineering. Barney Brown of Scotia Bank pulls up third, Robert Cassasola finishes fourth while Warren Coye wins the sprint for 5th place.

Meanwhile at the Master B Class, Mitchell Lewis of Truckers took top honours with Calbert Flowers of BCB/FT Williams grabbing 2nd and his teammate, Dean Belisle rounds out the top 3. the next event on the weekend warriors calendar is the 39 mile race through the Boom circuit this Sunday, January 22nd.

In softball news play in the Belize City Interoffice Competition at Rogers Stadium on Friday saw Kit Kat Baaba Shap. Kit Kat Baaba Shap doubled 14 – 7 as Lenard Linares drove in 3 of the 14 runs. Jumoko Castro gets the W while Luigi Zaldivar is tagged with the loss. In the nightcap, education kept its undefeated record intact by teaching the Police a lesson in the 11-3 blowout. Catcher Fiona Riverol’s 3 run triple in the 4th broke this ballgame wide open as Joel Wade gets the win and Dennis Myles records the loss. Today, Telemedia takes on Baaba Shap Kit Kat.

Finally folks, all Junior Girl soft ballers bound between 1993 and 1999 are being invited to try out for the National Junior Female Softball Team that will represent Belize at the Central American Junior Championship in 2012. By the way, all means nationwide.

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

James Adderley’s World of Sports

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

Folks let’s jump into the 2^nd Annual Senior Karate Championships which was staged at the St. Mary’s Parish Hall yesterday. We pick up the action in the 75 kilo Male Kumite as Leon Guild with the blue belt lands the back-kick on Deon Vernon and then follows up to score repeatedly with punches and kicks to claim gold at this weight class while Vernon has to settle for 2^nd. As you can see the judges scores it 7 to 2 in favour of Guild in this hand to hand combat. In the meantime, Anderson Partillo who also boxes for the Leopold Smart Boxing Gym was able to garner 3^rd place.

The 84 kilogram Male Kumite matched Argazauad Sankey of Red Dragon with BMAA’s Gary Pech and it’s Sankey the aggressor who scores repeatedly with the hands. Sankey then lands this clean right foot to the jaw of Pech. Sankey wins in a lopsided 12 to 2 score. At 60 kilograms, it’s Miiguel Ramirez of CSKC against Red Dragon’s Reynier Martinez in an evenly matched bout; but it’s Miguel Ramirez with the red beet who gets the edge in a 9-8 decision. At the 67 Kilo weight class, John Reyes of Sand Hill seems to be in charge of this fight in the early goings and even takes down Anthony Lord of BMAA. However, the smaller fighter displays a dogged determination forcing Reyes to retreat and he has to grab his man in self defence. The judges give Anthony Lord the Win in a 10-5 score.

On the female side, the 61 Kilos Kumite proved to be a lively one between Nerici Pastor and Myra Fernandez. Fernandez attacks with the foot and pays for it as Pastor reacts. Fernandez is game but Pastor groves to be too much to handle and it’s Nerici Pastor with the gold. Nerici Pastor also struck for gold in the K-5 female advance kata. Asha Pastor settles for 2^nd place in the non-contact event, while Myra Pinelo rounds out the top 3 in the kata event. Meanwhile, Rafael Quiterio is smiling and he has good reason because this performance gives him gold in the K-2 male novice kata. Gary Pech does enough here to take home silver. While Miguel Ramirez has to settle for 3^rd place. .

Folks Angel Lopez of Dangriga displays poise and skill as he handily takes gold in the K-6 male advanced kata. John Reyes of Sand Hill does enough in his term to grab silver and Leon Guild took home bronze in this class of the kata event.

Turning to the cycling scene, we reminded you fans that the 2012 edition of the Valentine’s Day Classic is set for February 12th so stay tuned. At this time we want to applaud the launching of the Ariel Rosado Memorial Education Foundation tomorrow at the Radisson Fort George. It will help the community in education and it pays homage to the memory of the departed cyclist.

Now let’s head to Roger’s Stadium where the 4 team Belize City Interoffice Softball Competition saw Telemedia eliminate the police in a 13-3 rout. The rout starts in the 1^st inning when Omar Gordon’s rips Police pitcher Leonora Morales with this monstrous solo blast. In the bottom of the 3rd, Telemedia pitcher Francis Usher smashed by Japhet Young to bring home 2 runs but it wasn’t enough, Luis Alpushe then pounces on Leonora Morales as 3 more runs come in for Telemedia who go on to post the 13-3 victory as Francis Usher gets the win and the police has to pack up.

In the other play off match, Education stepped on Kit Kat Baaba Shap in a 12-2 finish that saw Joel Wade get the win over Jimoko Castro who was beaten by his own wildness. Thus Telemedia and Kit Kat Baaba Shap will battle today at Roger’s Stadium to determine who meets Education for the title. The loser takes 3rd place.

Finally folks, the Women’s Softball Championship gets underway at Roger’s Stadium from August 24^th to 26^th and will be dedicated to the National Team that captured Gold in the 7th Central American and Caribbean Games in 1974. To the Softball Federation we say good move.

Jah Over All, I’m James Adderley.

Sports Roundup with James Adderley

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley welcoming you to this portion of Sports Monday.

The Belize Canoe Association continued its preparation for the 2012 La Ruta Maya set to launch on 9th March with the presentation of another stage race on Saturday February 4th. At the 9:30 a.m. start, 18 canoes have lined up for the event and if you’re a keen fan of this sport, you might be thinking they’re headed the wrong way; but they’re not. The association had decided today’s race would travel upstream going from the Haulover Bridge to Burrell Boom. As always breaking out of the pack is compulsory for the big boys who must avoid the dangers that lurk in a crowded field. Fortunately, today no canoe is overturned in the frenzy of competition.

Meanwhile, in the Pleasure Craft Category, it’s Print Belize taking top honors in 2:37:46 featuring Jesus Hozes, Rudolph Gentle and Jabier Guardado and you can see to your left the Junior Team of Garret Bermudez, Adrian and Darren Williams get victimized by a spill. Hats off to the female team – Police – who won this category in 2:46:40 behind the energy of Audrey Moody, Jane usher and Ruth Cruz. Folks it was Natius winning the Junior Class in 2:31:58 but we got no picture so we apologize to Alfred Lopez, Byron Cruz and Armando Lopez. And of course we give a shout out to Grumpy Ole Men who were more tired than grumpy today. For sure peddling upstream is rough. In the meantime, the countdown to La Ruta Maya on 9^th March continues.

The defending La Ruta Champion Zip Rider quickly surges to the lead followed closely by the sub-champions and archrivals Belize Bank while NICH makes it a 3-boat race in the open male class. At Bainton Bank, we see the mighty struggle for supremacy continue to rage and if you think paddling upstream is a walk in the park, just watch the energy and the skill being displayed by the 3 lead boats. It’s money time now inside Burrell Boom and Jerry Rhaburn, Feliz Cruz and Efrain Cruz power their craft to the win in 2:16:37. The brothers; Erwin, Amado and Daniel Cruz mount a gallant effort that falls short as they take 2^nd place 3 seconds later while NICH pulls up 3^rd—5 seconds behind the winner.

In the mixed team class, Oceana powered by Chris, his daughter Jayda and Jamel Seguro takes the victory in 2:27:14 and finished 5^th overall.

Turning to the football scene we caught up with newly elected President of the Premier Football League of Belize, Omario Perdomo Jr. N an effort to play catch-up on the scene.

Maito Perdomo

“This league is the amalgamation of the previous BPFL and the Super league. They came together with all the road map for the new election of the F.F.B. and the district branches. So out of this came the premier league of Belize and we went to elections in December and I won as president. A new executive was formed and we’re here today with a new league. I will not be running for the President of F.F.B. The league will have six votes for that election to elect the new president. There are three slates right now and today is the last day for nominations. So I guess you guys will be getting some news on that later on this week. The elections are march fifteenth.”

So here’s the schedule for the opening week in the PFLB. On Saturday 11^th, paradise Freedom Fighters take on San Ignacio United at Toledo Union Field at 4 p.m. Police United will host Placencia Assassins at the MCC Grounds 7:30 p.m. ON Saturday 12^th FC Belize takes on World FC at the MCC Grounds. The B.D.F. battles San Pedro at the Norman Broaster Stadium and Verdes goes to work against Belmopan Bandits inside the Marshalleck Stadium—all 4 p.m. starts. At 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, San Felipe Barcelona will host Juventus in a battle of the North.

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

James Adderley’s Mind-blowing Sports Update

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The premier football league of Belize kicked off its inaugural season with matches spread out across the nation over the weekend. At the MCC Grounds yesterday, FC Belize opened against World FC of Cayo and in the opening minutes Jaime Brooks of World FC misplays this spot kick launch outside of his goal but is eventually bailed out by his defense. We’re some 20 minutes in when Jeremy Bernadez pushes this ball across the goal mouth to find Jeremy James and FC Belize takes the 1-zip lead. A few minutes later, James gets the opportunity to score his 2^nd goal of the match but this time he misfires.

On this FC press, Jermaine Zuniga does everything right only to see his ambition to score foiled by a big time save from the Cayo goal. It’s more FC Belize and this set piece triggered by David Ramos forces a rise by Jaime Brooks who makes the save. Folks we’re into 2^nd half play when Leon Cadle takes down Albert Velasquez in front of the referee—he gets a yellow card but jaws about it for which he gets red-carded off the field. Despite the numerical disadvantage, FC Belize continues in the role of protagonist and maybe the referee cheats Jermaine Zuniga of a goal by not applying the advantage rule on this play. In the meantime, Ricardo Ayala takes down David Ramos not once but twice and guess what he gets away both times. Jeremy Bernadez then gets this nice opportunity to increase the FC Belize lead, but apparently he doesn’t get it yet that delay is dangerous. Here Bernadez gets another chance to shake the net; however, Jaime Brooks foils this attempt with a nice save. On this play, Brooks does get beaten by the header from Eric Martinez unfortunately for him, the goal negated by a foal throw.

Folks, on a whole, World FC showed very little offense against FC Belize and in fact to describe this match as well-played would be an overstatement of the facts. Of course it’s opening day and we expect things to get better.

In other action around the league on Saturday night at the MCC Grounds, Police United arrested Placencia Assassins in a 1-zip affair on a goal by Orlando Jimenez while at the Norman Broaster Stadium, Amin August’s goal gave San Ignacio United a 1-zip Win over Toledo Freedom Fighters. On Sunday at Cayo, San Pedro got goals from Jeffrey Smith and Kenny Whitfield while B.D.F. got goals from Brian Waight and Harrison Tasher in a 2 all stalemate. At Belmopan, the Bandits blanked Verdes 1-zip while up north at San Felipe Barcelona got goals from Oscar Acevedo and Christopher Hendricks while Osmar Duran scored twice for Juventus in a 2-2 draw. Looking ahead 6 matches are scheduled for the weekend. On Saturday the B.D.F. will host Juventus at the Norman Broaster, then on Sunday San Pedro takes on World FC at the MCC, San Felipe Barcelona will host FC Belize , Hankook Verdes travels to the Placencia Assassins, San Ignacio United will host Belmopan Bandits and Police united travels south to P.G. for a date with the Toledo Freedom Fighters.

Around the curve heading to the tape, the 2 man battle continues—it’s Edward Reyes on the inside when Byron Pope zips pass him and Pope of Benny’s Megabytes holds on to win the 17^th Valentine’s Classic in 3 hours 20 minutes 23 seconds while Edward Reyes of D & D Cycling settles for 2^nd. 27 seconds later, 2 D & D riders, Kyne Gentle and Richard Vera, pull up to take 3^rd and 4^th respectively and we must give big time credit to D & D Cycling. Luigi Urbina of C-Ray and Gregg Lovell of Santino’s then ride in 1 minute 48 seconds behind the winner to grab 5^th and 6^th in that order.

At the junior class, it was Deezan Spence of D & D taking top honors as Juan Umana of Cayo High Road Cycling finished 2^nd and Riis Cattouse of C-Ray rounds out the top 3. And on the ladies side, it was kaya Cattouse and Kirah Eiley—both of C-Ray—finishing 1^st and 2^nd while Shalini Zabaneh of Sagitun finished 3^rd. hey folks, we’ve got to say things have certainly changed in female cycling.

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

The World of Sports with James Adderley

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and we’re certainly glad to be with you for this portion of Sports Monday.

Week 2 in the PLB brought with it a full slate of 6 matches spread across the nation so we journeyed north to San Felipe where FC San Felipe Barcelona hosted FC Belize in a battle that can only be described as intriguing. The 1^st real threat at goal comes from the home team some 10 minutes in when Gabriel Perez singles out Eduardo Morales with this long pass off the right wing but Elroy Rawley of FC Belize comes up with a timely intervention. At the other end, Thomas Castro’s launch atop the 18 is potent but fails to find the target. It’s more FC Belize when Jeremy Bermudez turns nicely against Gabriel Perez to serve up this beauty to Thomas Castro who should have done better with this chance at goal. Still, FC Barcelona gets this wonderful opportunity to open the scoreboard when Oscar Acevedo outruns the FC Belize defense then waits to beat his man before firing which allows Ian Gaynair to make the successful tackle. In the meantime, this right foot bomb from Delwin Jones crashes on the wrong side of the target and at the half, the scoreless stalemate remains intact.

So we go to 2^nd half and its Oscar Acevedo unleashing this powerful right foot in a bit to give San Felipe the lead only to see it rise over the crossbar. Folk’s we’re at the 62^nd minute when Ian Gaynair fails to come up with the defensive clearance; the loose ball reaches Oscar Acevedo and his left foot gives San Felipe Barcelona the 1-zip lead. 4 minutes later, Thomas Castro uses strength and skill to get this ball inside the box to Jeremy James and his left foot launch ties the ballgame at 1-apiece and the rehearsed celebration is executed.

Meanwhile, Christopher Hendricks believes he’s fouled by Gaynair on this move—he reacts verbally to referee Irfan Basdemir who shows him a red card and as you can see Hendricks is obviously enraged by the card and we dare say this is not the way to handle your business on the football field. Despite the numerical disadvantage, it’s still San Felipe with the chance to steal the Win when Gaynair makes this defensive error however; Harvey Cruz can’t come up with the conversion as the match concludes in a 1-1 stalemate.

In other action around the league , the Belize Defence Force got 2 goals from Marlon Meza and 1 from Richard Jimenez to blank Juventus 2-zip, San Pedro Seadogs doubled World FC 4-2 at the MCC Grounds on 2 goals from Kenny Witz and 1-apiece from Francisco Mejia and Jesse Smith. Placencia Assasins crushed Hankook Verdes with a 4-zip blank on 2 goals from Luis Torres and 1-apiece from Derrick Torres and Ernie Whyte. Police United pounced on Paradise Freedom Fighters for the 2-nil Win on goals from Lennox Castillo and Orlando Jimenez while the Belmopan Bandits held San Ignacio United to 1-2 draw inside the Norman Broaster Stadium. Woodrow West put the Bandits ahead from the penalty spot but Defour replied for the West.

Looking to the weekend 2 matches are set for Saturday in the PLB: World FC will host Juventus at the Norman Broaster Stadium and Police United travels to the Belmopan Bandits. On Sunday at 3:30 p.m., San Felipe Barcelona will host the B.D.F. At 4 p.m., FC Belize will host San Pedro Seadogs inside the MCC Grounds. The battle for Cayo will be staged at Benque Viejo where Hankook Verdes goes against San Ignacio United and at Placencia; Placencia Assassins gets a visit from Paradise Freedom Fighters.
Turning to cycling news, 28 riders suited up for race 4 in the Weekend Warriors series at the A class level in a 39 mile ride that left Belmopan Comprehensive and headed to St. Margaret Village then swing back to finish where they started. At the turnaround point it’s Kenroy Gladden of Horizon in the lead, but the pelathon remains in immediate striking distance as they begin the journey back to the finish line. We fast forward to the finish line and around the curve it’s Kenroy Gladden challenging Ernest Meighan but Jaw-Meighan of Santino’s easily takes the Win as Gladden of Horizon settles for 2^nd. Team Stewart of MOH then edges out Barney Brown of Scotiabank for 3^rd place while Wilbert Jones of BCB/FT Williams rounds out the top 5.

For the record, Barney Brown wins the Veterans Class, Andrew Poppa Brown takes 2^nd place and Collet Mejia is 3^rd. Meanwhile the Master B Class 28 mile race was won by Jose Moguel of Cayo Rentals, Mark Lisbey of BCB/FT Willaims finished 2^nd and Geoffrey Waight of Cayo Rentals round out the top 3. Incidentally folks, Ernest Meighan leads the series overall with 125 points. Race 5, the Individual Time trial comes up this Sunday, February 26^th.

Finally folks, the Belize canoe Association presented another race on Saturday as they prepare for the 2012 La Ruta Maya. This time the race travelled from Burrell Boom to Belize City and again the finish found the usual big 3 in a battle for supremacy—and again it’s Zip Rider edging the Belize Bank this time by 5.6 seconds while NICH pills up 3^rd. in the mixed class, all in took top honors with Oceana 2^nd and Missile 3^rd. print Belize prevailed in the Pleasuire class beating the Belize Defence Force by over 10 seconds. The Belize Police Department won in female class and in the master class, it was Watta Ting with the Win.

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

All that’s good in Sports with James Adderley

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

Week three in the PLB brought a monster showdown inside the Isidro Beaton Stadium Saturday night as the Belmopan Bandits hosted the front running team in Zone B, Police United in what promised to be a keen contest. The Bandits came in ready fort the World and in the opening minute, looked to strike quickly when Ronaldo Alvarez fires this volley at Japheth Young who mishandles the pill which provides 2 more atemmpts that the Bandits fail to convert. The team continues to press the action and this deflection off the spotkick gets Ronaldo Alvarez another chance to score and he just misses the target. Police United finally gets some offense going when Lennox Castillo mounts this individual effort off the left wing but fails to deliver a centre that would get past Woodrow West.

It’s Police United again on the attack and this defensive error gives Jarret Dennis a one on one opportunity against West in which he disappoints terribly. Jacinto Bermudez then gets this nice look at the Police goal however, this launch was always rising. We’re in 2nd half action when Alden Coleman gets this chance to impact the ballgame only to be embarrassed by a nice recovery from Oswald Young. At the 76th minute, the ballgame was descended in form and skill whne Devon Makin fires this grasshead burner in heavy traffic that beats the diving Woodrow West to give Police a 1-zip lead. The Bandits look for the reply off this corner kick launched by Kareem Haylock, but Japhet Young does well to get this ball out of harm’s way. Again the Bandits look for the equalizer when this ball is kept alive to Mark Leslie but the heel play turns out to be a high riser. Folks it was not a well played ballgame, but Police United takes the 1-zip win anyway to become the only team with a perfect record in week 3 in all of the PBL.

In other Zone B Matches, Juventus banked World FC 3-nil on a hat trick from Osmar Duran while San Ignacio United doubled Hankook Verdes 2 to 1 on a pair of goals from Victor Morales. Placencia Assasins punished Paradise Freedom Fighters in a 5-1 onslaught. Thus Police United leads Zone B with a perfect 9 points, San Ignacio is next with 7, Placencia has 6, the Bandits show 4 while Hankook Verdes and Paradise Freedom Fighters are yet to post a win or even a draw.

Over in Zone A, FC Belize and San Pedro Sea Dogs settled for a scoreless stalemate, Juventus blanked World FC 3-nil on a hat trick by Osmar Duran while FC Felipe Barcelona burned the B.D.F. on a goal from Gabriel Perez. The standing in Zone A shows the San Pedro Sea Dogs, San Felipe Barcelona and FC Belize all with 5 points in that order due to goal differential. Juventus has 4 points and so does B.D.F. while World FC shows no points after 3 outings.

This weekend schedule looks like this on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. World FC will host San Felipe Barcelona at the Norman Broaster, Placencia Assassins travel to Belmopan bandits and Police United will be at the MCC Grounds against San Ignacio United. On Sunday, FC Belize faces the B.D.F. at the MCC Ground. Juventus takes on San Pedro Sea Dogs at the People’s Stadium and Hankook Verdes heads to the Toledo Union Field for a take with Paradise Freedom Fighters in a battle of teams looking for their 1^st points of the season.

Turning to the cycling scene, the C-Ray Cycling Team presented a 30 mile race on the Boom Circuit on Saturday that attracted over 50 riders including some of the big names in the sport as they ready themselves for the 2012 Cross Country. At the turn around point in Hattieville, we have 5 man breakaway lead by the Mexican Donesetti Vasquez. And this is a look at the main pelathon as round the circular to head back for the finish. When we rejoin the race on the return at Fresh Pond, it’s Kenroy Gladden grabbing that premie from the 3 man lead that includes Donesetti Vasquez and Leroy Cassasola. Now here’s the sprint to the tap andf its the Mexican Vasquez with the early lead but Leroy Cassasola of Santino’s will not quit and surges to grab the Win forcing Donesetti Vasquez of Depredadores into 2^nd while a vastly improved Kenroy Gladden pulls up 3^rd. Meanwhile for a 3^rd time this year, Kaya Cattouse forced Shalini Zabaneh into 2^nd place and Riss Cattouse prevailed in the Junior Category.

Jah Over All, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

James Adderley’s Sports Update

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and you’re most welcome to this fresh dish of Sports Monday.

We head immediately to the MCC Grounds where week 4 in the Premier League of Belize brought the B.D.F. face to face with FC Belize in a zone A matchup that could provide front runner status for either ball club. It’s FC Belize with the first probative move of the ballgame when Thomas Castro tries to get this left foot past Frank Lopez but that launch was never going to beat the goalkeeper. The military responds with this set piece triggered by Daniel Jimenez that is easily handled by Elroy Rawley. We’re 19 minutes in when Jeremy James finds Delwin Jones with this perfect service off the right wing. Frank Lopez comes up with the initial save but the rebound reaches David Ramos and his left foot swing gives FC Belize the 1-zip lead. 5 minutes later, Denmark Casey looks for the equalizer with this floater from outside the box—to his determinant, Elroy Rawley mishandles and Marlon Meza almost makes him pay—with operative word being almost. Still B.D.F. keeps coming and Daniel Jimenez’s right foot burst proves that the upright can be a goalkeeper’s best friend. In early 2^nd half action, Richard Jimenez let’s go this left foot that inches past the wrong side of the sticks. The military is in the ascending now and it takes Lionman effort from Ian Gaynair to head this ball out of danger when Daniel Jimenez looks for Richard Jimenez. So FC Belize tries to double the lead off this set piece from Francisco Briceño but it poses no real problem for Frank Lopez. It’s more B.D.F. when Denmark Casey deals to Marlon Meza who fires at goal only to see a well positioned Elroy Rawley make the save.

At the 79^th minute, the military pressure pays off. Daniel Jimenez picks out Denmark Casey whose shot is somehow kept out by Rawley but Erwin Flores beats Cristobal Gilharry to the ball and ties the ballgame at 1-apiece. The tension begins to mount and Ian Gaynair loses his cool and challenges Referee Reid’s authority for which he gets ejected. In the closing moments of the match, Francisco Briceño fires this potent left in a bid to steal the win but the ball rises over the horizontal bar as both teams settle for the 1-1 stalemate in a competitive ballgame.

In other results from Zone A: Juventus unleashed a 4-zip barrage on San Pedro Sea Dogs and World FC used the home field advantage to hold San Felipe Barcelona in a 3-3 tie. Thus Juventus emerged the leader with 7 points, San Felipe and FC Belize show 6 points apiece, the B.D.F. and San Pedro are tied at 5 points each and World FC got its 1^st point Saturday night.

Over in Zone B: Police United and San Ignacio United settled for a scoreless stalemate, so did the Placencia Assassins and Belmopan Bandits while Paradise Freedom Fighters got their 1^st three points in a big way by bombing Hankook Verdes 6-nil. After 4 weeks, Police leads with 10 points, San Ignacio is next with 8, Placencia 7, Belmopan 5, Paradise Freedom Fighters 3 and Hankook Verdes has no points to show after 4 tries.

This weekend schedule looks like this: On Saturday, San Ignacio will host Placencia, San Felipe Barcelona gets a visit from San Pedro and at the MCC Grounds, it will be FC Belize against Juventus. On Sunday, World FC plays host to the B.D.F., Police travels to Hankook Verdes and Paradise Freedom Fighters will be home against Belmopan Bandits.

In cycling news; the Weekend Warriors staged a Saturday race from Leslie’s Imports to Hattieville and back featuring some 20 riders. At the Hattieville roundabout, while the pelathon is not compact, everyone who started is still in the hunt. Going to the tape at least 11 cyclists were in play for the win but its Maurice Kelly of Horizon who grabs top honors, Frank Ferguson of Santino’s takes 2^nd, Warren Coye of Horizon is 3^rd, Mark Gentle of BCB/FT Williams is 4^th while Ryan Willoughby rounds out the top 5.

In other cycling news, Byron Pope of Megabytes beat our Gregory Lovell of Santino’s and teammate Mark Staine to win C-Ray’s 106 mile elite race. Shalini Zabaneh got a win over Kaya Cattouse in the female class, while Oscar Quiros won the Junior Category and Kenroy Gladden of Horizon took the Masters event. Meanwhile folks, the Belize Cycling Association has been awfully silent of late.

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Monday Sports mash up with James Adderley

Good Evening I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The 2012 La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge took front and center in our nation over the weekend drawing thousands of fans from all across the country. WE pick up the action on Day II and it’s Oceana Wave Makers challenging the mighty Belize Bank for the lead at Double Head Cabbage. They would take the win by a second over Belize Bank, with NICH pulling up 3rd and if you’re looking for the defending champion Zip Rider they’re some 18 minutes off the pace today.

In Day III, Zip Rider—the defending champions—makes its presence felt at the Burrell Boom finish line and are followed 5 seconds later by a new and improved NICH. Belize Bank, the overall lead after Day III, pulls up in 3rd place 9 seconds behind the stage winner, Oceana takes 4th with BTL Cobb Arm rounding up the top 5.

So here we are for the start of the final leg. We’re inside Burrell Boom and the starting line brings with it a mess of colors as the athlete ready themselves for the final push. The river explodes with energy to the starting signal and despite the win at Boom, Zip Riders will know that the 18 minutes lost to the Belize Bank would be irreversible. Now here’s the finish at the Belcan Bridge here in Belize City. it’s a head on clash between Zip Rider and Belize Bank—Zip Rider turns up the pressure and crosses the finish line a nose ahead of Belize Bank but it’s a victory as it’s Belize Bank with the overall win with a time of 16 hours 36 minutes 3 seconds over 4 stages. Oceana Wave Makers pulls up 20 seconds off the pace but their overall time of 16 hours 37 minutes 52 seconds gives them second place. NICH pulls up 4^th, but finishes overall in 3^rd place with its total time of 16:42:44. BTL Cobb Amin takes 4^th place overall in 16:44:50. Coast Guard Redemption looses the sprint nevertheless round out the top in the male division with a time of 16:54:45.

For Zip Riders, the win streak is broken after loosing 18 minutes in the first two stages were never again a serious threat to Belize Bank. In the mixed class, Beat di Burn won it in 17:20:25. Creative Marketing sales took the Intramural Category in 17:50:53. Crime Fighters won in the Pleasure Class in 18:29:52 and the female class was again taken by Peace Makers—this time in 18:36:18.

Turning to the football scene in the Premier League of Belize, Week 5 brought a monster show to the MCC Grounds yesterday as FC Belize locked horns with the mighty Juventus in a pitched battle for supremacy in Zone A. However, the opening 17 minutes was bereft of highlights until this incident caught our eye. FC’s Jeremy Bernardez launches a fierce tackle while the response from Juventus Captain Oliver Hendricks is just as vicious and in the interest of the game, both players should have been shown yellow cards. At the 27^th minute, Jeremy James keeps this throw in alive to Cristobal Gilharry whose header crashes against the crossbar—the bounce reaches Jeremy James and FC Belize goes up 1-zip. The pace of the ballgame intensifies and even before this set piece is launched the referee has to impose order. Freddy Tun tries to curve this ball into the goal—Gilharry comes up with the initial defensive header as FC Belize eventually gets off the field.

We’re in the 2^nd half play as Juventus continues the search for the equalizer when Clifton West decides if he can’t connect with the head, he’ll connect with the hands for which he is properly and promptly sanctioned with a yellow card. It’s more Juventus pressing this time it’s off the corner kick and indeed Russell Cassanova should have at least made contact with the ball inside the box. Meanwhile we’ve got to give some props to Howard West who reads this pass from Francisco Briceño who was trying to free up Jeremy James. FC’s Alfred Garnett then gets this chance to double this team’s lead but the shot is right at West and maybe the FC player should fix the numbers on their backs. On this FC press, Dalton Cayetano makes the right move only to be denied an opportunity at goal by a bad 2^nd touch. Less than a minute later, Dalton Cayetano makes amends when Francisco Briceño pulls this ball into the danger zone it bounces to Cayetano and his header doubles the FC lead. That’s the way it would end.

In other Zone A results; San Felipe Barcelona sink San Pedro in a 2-1 finish up north and the B.D.F. easily conquered World FC in a 7-zip rout. Over in Zone B, Placencia Assassins burn San Ignacio FC 2-1 inside the Norman Broaster Stadium. Police United pounded Hankook Verdes 3-zip while Paradise Freedom Fighters were held to a 1-1 stalemate by the Belmopan Bandits inside the Toledo Union. This weekend schedule: FC Belize at World FC and Hankook Verdes goes to Belmopan Bandits—that’s Saturday. On Sunday, the B.D.F. will be at the MCC against San Pedro, Juventus will host San Felipe Barcelona, Placencia will be at home against Police United and San Ignacio travels to paradise Freedom Fighters.

Finally folks, the 31^st Annual Belmopan Cycling Classic comes up this Sunday, March 18^th.

Jah overall, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

James Adderley Buzzer Beating Statistics

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

Week 6 in the PLB brought a struggle to the People’s Stadium in Orange Walk as Juventus looked to rebound off that 2-zip loss to FC Belize against the undefeated San Felipe Barcelona. Folks we’re only 5 mins into the ballgame when Oscar Acevedo is cynically taken down inside the box by Dean Flowers and Referee Wellington Hall took out the maximum punitive measure by ruling a penalty kick in favor of the visiting San Felipe team. Eliazar Itza steps up and his left foot push gives Howard West no chance at the save as San Felipe Barcelona takes a 1-zip lead. In response, the league’s leading scorer Osmar Duran sets up Oliver Hendricks who launches this beautiful on the run right away full volley that brings out a monster save from the San Felipe goalkeeper, Brayan Hernandez.

It’s still Juventus looking for the equalizer and Oliver Hendricks sets Clifton Hall nicely with this pass and the defense does enough to handle the situation. Things certainly take a turn for the worse for Juventus when referee Hall chases Enrique Castillo off the field with a red card. So we go to 2^nd half and Oliver Hendricks picks out Osmar Duran who opts for the spectacular instead of getting the equalizer for this ballclub. Give Dean Flowers some credit when he digs Acevedo’s header out of the goal after the keeper is beaten—making amends for that penalty he gave up. Lady luck certainly was not with Juventus today because the set piece from Freddy Tun finds Geraldo Patron, Howard West pushes it out to Oliver Hendricks who by going for power instead of accuracy, squanders a real chance to tie.

Meanwhile, Eliazar Itza dances his way through the Juventus defense and sets table perfectly for the unattended Oscar Acevedo who really should have done better with this opportunity. It’s getting late, but even with the numerical disadvantage Juventus is pressing for the equalizer when this header from Clifton West rolls outside the target. Now watch Osmar Duran look for his 7^th goal of the season—it’s a beauty but the save by Brayan Hernandez is even more impressive. It’s a last gap effort by Juventus when Clifton West finds Oliver Hendricks who gets taken down by the goalkeeper and again referee Hall rightly rules penalty. Hendricks steps up to take it himself only to be denied by a save from Brayan Hernandez. San Felipe Barcelona hangs on to the 1-zip W.

In other action from Zone A, the B.D.F. bombed San Pedro Sea Dogs 2-zip at the MCC Grounds and FC Belize handled World FC by that same score inside the Norman Broaster. Thus FC Belize and San Felipe show 12 pts apiece in that order, the B.D.F. has 11, Juventus 7, San Pedro 5 and World FC show 1 point after 6 outings. In Zone B, Police united shook up Placencia Assassins in a2-1 finish, San Ignacio United held Paradise Freedom Fighters to a 1-1 stalemate at Toledo and guess who bust out the champagne; Hankook Verdes got its win of the season with 2-1 home win over Belmopan Bandits. Police United leads Zone B with 16 pts, Placencia has 10, Sa Ignacio 9, Belmopan 6, Freedom Fighters 5 and Hankook Verdes 3. Looking to the weekend, on Saturday at 7:30 p.m., World FC will host San Pedro, San Ignacio travels to Belmopan and Police United will host Paradise. On Sunday at 4 p.m., FC Belize will be matched against San Felipe Barcelona in a pivotal showdown. Juventus gets a visit from the B.D.F. and Hankook Verdes plays host to Placencia Assassins.

Turning to the cycling scene, the 31^st Annual Belmopan Cycle Classic took center stage on the Western Highway yesterday under the banner of the Ariel Rosado Memorial Education Fund. Among the 58 elite taking aim at the final big race before the Cross Country are Byron Pope, National Time Trial and Road Champion of Belize, defending Champion Darnell Barrow and up and coming C-Ray Star, Brandon Cattouse. And they’re off in a hundred mile ride from Belize City to Belmopan and back. Coming out of Hattieville, the pelathon is split into 2—with this 16 man unit stepping on the pace including Brandon Cattouse, Darnell Barrow, Byron Pope, Herman Requeña, Edward Reyes, Austin Armstrong, Ron Vasquez, Quenton Hamilton, Erwin Middleton, Jose Choto. At La Democracia, it’s Herman Requeña grabbing his 2^nd station prize in a row as the lead pack enjoys a 1:16 seconds lead over the main pack. Heading into Belmopan, young Peter Choto who held the pace from mile 42 continues to run the show. On the way back, around Cotton Tree, the lead pack has been reduced to some 11 riders with Williams Stewart on the pace followed by Jose and Giovanni Choto. A few minutes later, these 3 riders; Ron Vasquez, Edward Reyes and Erwin Middleton try to run away from the unit. However, the runaway trio is reeled in by around mile 27. Nevertheless, at mile 23, the new wrinkle features Ron Vasquez, brother Shane Vasquez embarking on a solo flight in a serious head win.

At Burton Bridge, it’s still the solitary figure of Ron Vasquez dominating the pace. Around the police checkpoint, this group of 7 riders mounts the final effort to reel in Ron Vasquez. At tape time, it’s Ron Vasquez of Western Spirit showing that he is capable of grabbing the big time winning the 100 mile race in unchallenged fashion in a time of 4 hours, 24 minutes, 41 seconds. 51 seconds later, the defending champion, Darnell Barrow of Santino’s takes 2^nd place edging out Brandon Cattouse of C-Ray, Austin Armstrong of D & D Cycling pulls up 4^th while Byron Pope of Benny’s Megabytes rounds out the top 5. At the Junior level, Oscar Quiros Jr. riding unattached picks up top honors, Aiden Juan of Cayo High Road took 2^nd while Brandon Morgan of C-Ray rounds out the top 3. Only 2 females participated in the female ride. Kirah Eiley of C-Ray credited with the win over teammate Kaya Cattouse. Meanwhile, the 80 Mile Junior Cross Country Cycle Classic comes up this Sunday, March 25^th from Succotz Ferry to Leslie’s Imports. Joel Borland won last year’s event. The Belize Cycling Association is seeking assistance with prizes for this event and the 84^th Annual Cross Country Cycling Classic coming on Holy Saturday.

Channel 5

Sports Monday with James Adderley

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

 

The future of Belizean cycling was in full bloom yesterday with the 13^th running of the Junior Cross Country Cycle Classic. 20 of the most promising young talent were suited at the Succotz Ferry for the start of this 74.6 mile journey chasing a record of 3 hours 37 minutes 48 seconds set by Byron Pope. The first to make his presence felt is Gian Zetina Junior of Cayo Uprising who jumped out of the pack about a mile into the race and would go on to claim on impressive catch of 13 station prizes. Just outside San Ignacio town, Zetina continues to dominate the pace but even the exuberance of youth could not propel him out of reach from the resolve of the compact pelathon to reel him in. and here is Zetina sprinting for the last premie before he is enveloped by the main bunch coming out of Georgeville. The 13 premie’s might have led to his 11 place finish. Passing through Roaring Creek, it’s Riis Cattouse stepping out to grab that station prize. Giovanni Lovell then crosses over to join Cattouse making it a lead duo around Cotton Tree. However, by the time the race passes mile 30, we have an 11 man split that will take the ride to the finish line.

At mile 10, the 11 still cleave together trying to figure out who’s to make the big move. When we catch up to the race at Old Belize, we have a 7 man lead preparing for the sprint. Now here’s the sprint for the 2012 Title. It’s Oscar Quiros on the outside attacking all the way, Aidan Juan tries to hang on while Deezan Spence runs out of power. Oscar Quiros Jr. riding unattached grabs the Junior Cross Country title in 3 hours 50 minutes 11 seconds, Aidan Juan of Cayo High Road hangs on to 2^nd place while Riis Cattouse, Zahir Figueroa, Brandon Morgan and Giovanni Lovell rounds out the top 7 in that order. Hey folks, the future of Belizean cycling looks good.

In other cycling news the results from the weekend warriors Sunday race shows that Ernest Thurton of Santino took the top spot forcing his teammate, John Burns into 2^nd while Shaun Howard pulled up 3^rd with Colin Majia and Santino Castillo rounds out the top 5. Meanwhile folks, the countdown to the 84^th Annual Cross Country continues so stay tuned.

Turning to the football scene, week 7 took us to the Isidoro Beaton Stadium where Belmopan Bandits played host to San Ignacio FC Saturday night. It’s the host team looking to strike first when Oscar Banegas, the San Ignacio keeper, mishandles this ball but recovers in time before any damage is done. In the meantime, Floyd Jones gets this one on one look at the visitor’s goal only to let loose a high rising left foot. San Ignacio finally goes offensive when Dennis Alvarez triggers this set piece that force Woodrow West into a diving save. At the other end, Kareem Haylock launches this solo effort that concludes with a left foot shot that inches outside the far upright. Folks we’re at the 40^th minute of the ballgame when Gilbert Swazo fires this grass head burner that Banegas mishandles, the rebound reaches Jacinto Bermudez who powers it home to give the Bandits a 1-zip lead.

The joy is short-lived because as San Ignacio drives off the kick-off, John Trapp is taken down inside the box by David Madrid. Amin August steps up and ties the ballgame at 1 apiece at the 41^st minute. 2^nd half brought very little entertainment to this ballgame as both teams settled for the 1-1 tie.

In other action around the league, San Pedro Sea Dogs sank World FC in a 3-2 burner, Police United continued to roll with a 2-1 win over Paradise Freedom Fighters, Placencia Assassins blanked Paradise Freedom Fighters 2-zip, FC Belize edged San Felipe Barcelona 1-nil and the B.D.F. jolted Juventus in a 1-nothing finish. Looking to the weekend schedule; the B.D.F. will host San Felipe and the Police gets a visit from Belmopan. That’s on Saturday night. While on Sunday, World FC travels to Juventus, San Ignacio and Hankook Verdes will kick it out at the Norman Broaster while Placencia Assassins travel to paradise Freedom Fighters.

In other football news play, in the female football league over the weekend saw Pumas and Dangriga battle to a 2-2 stalemate, while Sugar City Girls shook up Millennium in a 2-1 final score. Finally folks, the 31^st UB Relathon was staged yesterday with the males overtaking the females at mile 10. Kaina Martinez finished the run from Belmopan to Belize for the females who put up a time of 7 hours, 33 minutes, while the makes posted 7 hours, 10 minutes. The males have not had 18 wins to the females 14.

 

Jah Over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Full Sporting Events with James Adderley

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

 

Week 8 in the Premier Leagues of Belize saw undefeated Police United play host to the Belmopan bandits inside the MCC Saturday night in a bid to keep the clean sheet intact. Folks we’re only 6 minutes in when the Police provides positive proof that they’re the protagonist in this one thanks to this embarrassing misplay by the Bandits’ goalkeeper Orlando Galdamez who comes out of his goal but mis-kicks. Andres Makin pounces on the loose ball and picks out Lennox Castillo who moves Ronaldo Alvarez out of the way and then beats Galdamez to give Police the quick 1-zip lead. The visitors then get the opportunity to tie the ballgame when Alden Coleman sets up David Madrid with this perfect pass only to see the striker misfire.

The Police looks to double their lead off this corner kick from James Logan Jr., but the volley by Lennox Castillo is right at the Bandits’ keeper. It’s another chance for the Police to increase their lead when Evan Mariano outruns the Bandits defense and fails to get the pill past Galdamez in 2 tries. At the other end, Alden Coleman tries to get the bandits equalizer but does not get enough on the ball to bother Japheth Young. Orlando Jimenez finds himself with this good look at goal and fires straight at Galdamez who makes the easy score. 8 minutes into 2^nd half, the Police finally come up with their 2^nd goal of the match. Orlando Jimenez triggers this set piece that eventually reaches Trevor Lennon and his header makes it a 2-zip ballgame.

Folks this might just be Belmopan’s best offensive in this ballgame when Floyd Jones looks for the far corner with this left foot in-swinger which is foiled by a monster save from Japheth Young. Now watch Trevor Lennon impose himself on the Belmopan defense; he swings and misses and then is forced wide by goalkeeper Galdamez only to find the far corner from a real acute angle. The Police wins 3-zip to maintain its lead in Zone B with 22 points from 7 wins and a draw.

In other results, Placencia Assassins held Paradise Freedom Fighters to a 1-1 tie at Toledo to remain in 2^nd place with 14 points, while San Ignacio United doubled Hankook Verdes 2-1 to remain in 3^rd place with 13 points. Over in Zone A, the Belize Defence Force bombed FC San Felipe Barcelona 2-1 to move into 1^st place with 17 points after the San Pedro Sea Dogs held FC Belize to a scoreless draw out at the Island and FC now shows 16 points in 2^nd place. Meanwhile, Juventus stopped a 2 game slide with a 3-zip bashing of World FC at the People’s Stadium.

Looking to this weekend on Saturday night, San Ignacio takes on Police at the Norman Broaster. On Sunday, it’s all of 5 matches. San Pedro Sea Dogs will host Juventus, FC Belize travels West to face the B.D.F., San Felipe Barcelona will host World FC, Paradise Freedom Fighters will visit Hankook Verdes and Placencia Assassins will be at home against Belmopan Bandits.

Now let’s check in on the female football league as the defending champion, Millennium hosted the Sugar City Girls inside the MCC Grounds last night. And it’s Millennium shaking the net early when Gianne Cayetano finds Sherain Tracy whose goal is voided for roughing the goalkeeper. This wakes up the Sugar City Girls so Tamara Baptist deals to Gisel Baisa whose grasshead burner burns a hole in the back of the bet like a laser and the visitors are up 1-zip. Make it 2-nil in early 2^nd half when Karen Garcia fires this bullet from pointblank range as the OW girls continue to shine. Meanwhile, Elisha Bermudez thinks she has pulled back one for Millennium here, only to see Jenny Cantun make the save. Make it 3-zip ballgame when Karen Garcia’s launch off this set piece bounces past the keeper. And then Gian Castaneda gets her 2^nd goal of the match with this right foot swing that bulges the net. Sugar City Girls beat the defending champion on their home field 4-zip to make it 2 wins in a row over Millennium.

In news from the Easter Tournament in Dangriga, Valley Pride beat Real Juventus 4-zip, Harlem blanked Canada Hill Aquillas 2-nil, Southside routed Bilboa 11-nothing while Rimas Strikers handed DYFA U-19 a 3-zip loss. Action resumes Holy Thursday with Canada Hill facing Bilboa and Foreshore Elegance goes up against Umadagu U-19.

In cycling news, the Weekend Warriors Sunday Race saw Kenroy Gladden take top honors, Vallan Symmons finished 2^nd while Ray Hyde rounds out the top 3 from a field of 22 that travelled from La Democracia to Leslie’s Imports. Meanwhile, Ernest Meighan won the Master’s Class in a race held at Chetumal over the weekend while Brandon Cattouse and Gregg Lovell finished 4^th and 5^th in the Elite Class.

Channel 5

Football and Cycling; James Adderley’s Full Update on Sports Monday

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

 

The final schedule to regular season play in the Premier League of Belize, found FC Belize as journeymen to Juventus at People’s Stadium yesterday looking to nail and even a spot in the 4 team playoffs set to kick off this Sunday, April 22^nd. It’s a rude awakening for FC Belize as we’re only 2 minutes into the ballgame when Cristobal Gilharry fails to clear this ball which is picked up by Clifton West who hammers it past Elroy Rawley for the 1-zip lead. A minute later, Osmar Duran gets this look at goal only to be denied by Rawley from pointblank range in his bed for a 6^th season goal and a doubling of the Juventus lead. When Clifton West comes up with this loose ball in front of FC’s goal, he should have gotten his 2^nd goal of the match but failed miserably.

FC Belize finally gets some offense going when David Ramos sends this delivery into the Juventus goal area, Colville Richards mishandles the pill, Thomas Castro catches up with the loose ball but gets off a weak left foot that wasn’t going anywhere. FC is in the ascending when Francisco Briceño triggers this spot kick that Ritchie Dominguez almost converts into an auto goal—and then Ivor Arriola’s left foot attempt to score leaves a lot to be desired. So we go to 2^nd half and we don’t know what Clifton West is doing but he should have doubled the Juventus lead right here. of this defensive misplay, Jeremy Bermudez gets this opportunity to tie the ballgame but for some reason he just gift the ball to goalkeeper Richards of Juventus—maybe their friends. However, Jeremy Bermudez makes amends a minute later when he pounces on this loose ball and toes it into the far corner to tie the ballgame at the 50^th minute.

FC Belize grabs the lead when Bermudez finds Francisco Briceño who unleashes a left foot that Richards can’t handle for the 2-1 score; 60 minutes in. Now watch this handball by the FC defense and Referee Reid rightly rules for the penalty kick. Osmar Duran steps up to notch his 6^th goal of the season and ties the ballgame at 2-apiece at the 65^th minute. We’re at the 70^th minute when David Ramos picks out Jeremy James who beats Richards to the ball to score his 5^th goal and give FC Belize the 3-2 lead. By the way, referee Reid, goalkeeper Richards should have gotten a card for showing his pegs. In closing minutes of the ballgame, FC Belize seals the deal when Carlton Rogers tucks this ball into the far corner as FC Belize wins the match in a 4-2 score and are into the payoffs from the runner up spot in Zone A.

Meanwhile, the B.D.F. finished atop the standings in Zone A after crushing World FC in a 5-zip rout Saturday night. The Sea Dogs bombed San Felipe Barcelona 4-nil but could not make it into the playoffs with 15 points. In Zone B, Police United handles Hankook Verdes in –nothing doubling to finish atop the standings with an undefeated 25 points from 10 outings. Placencia Assassins joined Police from Zone B after edging San Ignacio United 2-1 yesterday and Paradise Freedom Fighters burned Belmopan Bandits 1-zip. Thus the playoffs blast off this Sunday with 2 matches. The B.D.F. will host Placencia Assassins while Police United will hold court against FC Belize—look out for fireworks.

Turning to the Belize District Female Football Play Saturday, the defending champion, Millennium Girls broke a streak of 2 straight losses. The sputtering offence came to life against Belmopan Blazers as Sherraine Tracey fires at goal only to be denied by Anna Ramirez. On this press, Sherraine Tracey beats the Belmopan defense to the ball and then pushes the ball past Ramirez for the only goal of the match as Millennium wins 1-nil. Checking the results from the Stann Creek District Easter Cup on Friday, DYFA stopped Marie Sharp 5-1 while Canada Hills Aquillas beat Hopkins 4-nil. Yesterday Umadagu U-19 edged Ghans 2-1 while Hope Creek Pumas handles Galindo Proper Fix 2-1. On Friday, Rivas Strikers tab on Real Juventud and Southside challenges Benguche FC while on Sunday, Foreshore Elegance sees action against Valley Pride and DYFA U-19 goes to work against Umadagu U-19.

In cycling news, 43 riders suited up for the Weekend Warriors A Class Cross Country ride that travelled from Loma Luz Hospital. Ernest Meighan and Kenroy Smokes Gladden commanded the pace for the most of the way and are still in control. When they rolled around Hattieville roundabout on their way to the Boom Circuit, Jaw Meighan then drops Gladden but is now joined by Lean Stewart. At Haulover Bridge, the duel intensifies between Stewart and Meighan. In fact, it lasts all the way to the sprint at Shell Gas Station on the Northern Highway. Santino’s Jaw Meighan attacks on the outside and grabs the Win forcing Lean Stewart into 2^nd. Barney Brown of Scotia Bank wins the sprint for 3^rd place while Luigi Urbina of C-Ray is 4^th and Kenroy Gladden of Horizon rounds out the top 5.

In the B/C Class that ran from Roaring Creek to the Shell Gas Station on the Northern Highway, Perry Gibson of AAA Loans took top honors—female rider Kaya Cattouse of C-Ray finished 2^nd and Leroy Vargas of BWSL rounds out the top 3.

Also in Cycling News, the 7^th annual Pablo Marin Cycle Classic will be staged on May 1^st 2012. It will travel from Miami Beach to the Santa Elena Border then swings back and heads to Orange Walk where it will turn around and head back to Miami Beach in Corozal for the big finish. Registration should be done by email to belizecycling@gmail.com

In softball news, the Belize Softball Federation will host the World Games Qualifying Tournament for English speaking countries of the Caribbean from November 27^th to December 3^rd 2012 here in Belize City. the World Games is scheduled for Cali Colombia in July 2013.

Channel 5

Football dominated the Weekend Sports

Good evening, I’m James Adderley. Welcome to Sports Monday.

 

The PLB playoffs got off with a bang over the weekend with all 4 teams seeing action in a bid to reach the finals as the league seeks to produce a champion to represent the Jewel in this year’s UNCAF Champions Tournament. So we take you to the MCC Grounds where FC Belize played host to the red hot Police United yesterday intending to use the home field to get a jump in this home and away series. It certainly was a brilliant start for FC as we’re only a minute in when Ian Gaynair throws in to Jeremy Bermudez who gets this ball across the face of the goal to Jeremy James who gives his team a quick 1-zip lead. The Police responds immediately by ramping up the pressure and it pays off when Evan Mariano finds Bernard Linares who punches this grasshead burner into the far corner to tie the ballgame at 1 apiece. 7 minutes later, Police takes the lead when Orlando Jimenez gets this ball in front of the goal to Evan Mariano whose right away attempt that was going wide bounces off Ivor Arriola for the dreaded auto goal and Police goes up 2 to 1.

This corner kick fired by Francisco Briceño gives FC Belize a chance at the equalizer but courageous defending by the Police stifles the attempt. A minute later when Ivor Arriola picks out Jeremy James, the striker should have delivered the tie; instead he unleashes a high riser. James tries to make amends with this header but it would be snatched up by Glenford Chimilio Jr. So Francisco Briceño decides to test him from outside the 18 with this left foot bomb but again Chimilio handles the occasion. FC Belize does get a break when Thomas Castro is taken down inside the box forcing referee Irfan Basdemir to point to the penalty spot. Cristobal Gilharry gets the call and serves up a beauty to tie the ballgame at 2 apiece at the 60^th minute. Police United then took to regain the lead off this corner kick kept alive to Bernard Linares whose launch forces Rawley to punch and he nearly concedes with an auto goal when the ball bits the far upright. Game 1 of the series ends in a 2-2 tie.

In other semifinal series, the B.D.F. and Placencia Assassins battled to a scoreless stalemate at Placencia yesterday. So Week 2 of the playoffs must produce winners this Sunday, April 28^th even if it means going to penalty kicks. Police United will now host FC Belize at the Isidorio Beaton Stadium while the B.D.F. will be inside the Norman Broaster Stadium against Placencia Assassins. Only 2 teams will move on so lookout for major fireworks.

Turning to the Belize Female Football League, Dangriga Pumas headed to Esperanza on Saturday for its date with Gentle Touch. It’s the visitors with the 1^st real chance to score when Dorita Ramos gets this look at an open goal only to raise the ball over the crossbar. A few minutes later, it’s Ashanti Velasquez with this center to Miss Mejia who converts it to the 1^st goal of the ballgame as the visitors go up 1-zip. In the meantime, Shereen Vasquez should have handled this ball before the bounce—she doesn’t so Kimberly Perez ties the ballgame at 1 apiece. Off this spot kick, Gentle Touch gets at least 3 opportunities to score but nevertheless Dorita Ramos pounces on this pass in front of an empty goal and drills it home for the 2-1 score.

A few minutes later, this corner kick causes confusion in the Griga defense as the ball bounces into the net for the 2-2 score so credits Shanell Gentle with the goal. It’s late in the ballgame when Gentle deals to Marilyn Flores who pushes the ball past Shereen Vasquez and it turns out to be the game winner in a 3-2 score.

In other football news, results from Orange Walk Compeition shows that in Week 3, Progresso pounded Douglas 5-zip, Sinbad crushed San Juan 5-1, Otro Benque edged San Estevan 4-3 and Crystal FC doubles Trial Farm 2-1. In the South Zone, San Cruz blanked Chan Pine Ridge 2-nil, Yo Creek and Palmar battled to a 3-3 stalemate, August Pine Ridge lashed LA Boys 2-zip and Tower Hill handles Trinidad in a 5-3 finish.

 

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Sports Monday Highlights with James Adderley

Good evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

 

The battle to get into the 1^st championship series as presented by the Premier League of Belize raged simultaneously at the Norman Broaster Stadium in San Ignacio and inside the F.F.B. stadium at Capital City, Belmopan Saturday night. We take you inside the Norman Broaster Stadium where the Belize Defense Force hosted Placencia Assassins after last week’s scoreless draw in Game 1 and we are early into the ballgame when Harrison Tasher is taken down inside the eighteenth by Dalton Eiley and the referee rules penalty. David Trapp, captain of the B.D.F. team gets the call only to disappoint with a launch that bounces off the near upright and the Assassins breathe a sigh of relief. We’re some 14 minutes in when Elias Donaire finds Dellon Torres and his crushing header gives Placencia the 1-zip lead. Vallan Symms then looks to tie the ballgame off this set piece but the launch curls into goalkeeper Elias Pelayo and Placencia leads 1-nil.

In 2^nd half, we find the B.D.F. still pressing for the equalizer so Byron Usher picks out Harrison Tasher with this wonderful pass but the header by Tasher sails over the horizontal bar. The military gets another chance to come up with the equalizer when Luis Mendez deals to Erwin Flores who really should have done better. At the other end, Placencia looks to double the lead only to be denied by the timely intervention of the B.D.F. keeper, Frank Lopez. In the meantime, Elias Pelayo is asked to come up with a necessary save off this shot by Marlon Meza and he does. Nevertheless, the equalizer comes at the 80^th minute and it comes when Meza’s launch into the danger zone is misplayed by the Assassin’s defense and Daniel Jimenez makes them pay. Talk about a big time save; this right foot grass head burner from Daniel Jimenez has goal written all over it until Pelayo intervenes.

It’s getting late so Rollin Burgess seeks to seal the WIN with this powerful smash but is denied by a fine save from Frank Lopez and at the end of 90 minutes, we have a 1-1 tie. So we go to overtime and we’re 7 minutes in when Zerrick Torres fires this bomb that beats Lopez as the Assassins takes a 2-1 lead. But the B.D.F. wouldn’t quit. Daniel Jimenez triggers this set piece that is headed out to Marlon Meza whose right away bouncer ties the ballgame at the 111^th minute of play; which forces the decision to be made from penalty kicks. Marlon Meza of the B.D.F. gets the first shot and he gives his team the lead. Zerrick Torres steps up and ties it for Placencia. Danny Jimenez who played a whale of a game disappoints when he gets his turn. Luis Torres then gives Placencia the lead with this offering. Harrison Tasher keeps the B.D.F. alive with this conversion. However Rollin Burgess keeps his team ahead with this goal. Khalil Vasquez put his attempt too close to Pelayo who makes the save. So when Ashley Torres steps up and sends Lopez the wrong way, it’s all over as the Placencia Assassins are into the championship series with the 4-2 win on penalty kicks. Placencia will face Police United who burned FC Belize on a goal from Trevor Lennox Saturday night inside the F.F.B. Stadium. Game 1 is set for Saturday May 5^th inside the Michael Ashcroft Stadium and the series concludes on May 12^th at the F.F.B. Stadium.

In news from the Stann Creek Easter Cup, Galindo Proper Fix crushed Bilboa 8-zip while Harlem and Hopkins settled for a 1-1 score. On Tuesday, Foreshore Elegance takes on Marie Sharp and Ghans hooks up with Valley Pride. Turning to the softball scene, Friday’s matchup in the Belize City senior Female Competition found Telemedia in action against Mirage Lady Rebels. We pick up the action in the 3^rd inning as Mirage Lady Rebels find themselves down by 2 runs. Sharett Jones smacks this 2 run double off Mary Flowers and we are tied at 4 apiece. Kyle McFadzean breaks the tie in the 5^th inning with this 2 run double to right off Laniesha Jones. Telemedia would score 3 runs in. they would get 2 more in the 6^th and 1 in the 7^th to grab the victory in a 10-6 final score as Mary Flowers gets the win and Laniesha Jones is tagged with the loss. On tonight’s ticket at Roger’s Stadium, Telemedia goes to work against Orchid Blazers.

Finally folks, Wesley Upper School got past Holy family RC School 41-36 to grab the national Male Primary School Basketball championship on Friday. Meanwhile Belize rural Primary School defeated Louisiana Government School 20-2 to take the female title. Kristy Terry of Belize rural was voted female Most Valuable Player, while Shaquille Crawford of Wesley Upper emerged with MVP honors on the male side.

 

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Football, softball and cycling ups on Sports Monday

Good evening, I’m James Adderley. Welcome to this issue of Sports Monday.

The championship series for the 2012 Premier League of Belize title got underway inside the Michael Ashcroft Stadium Saturday night to a full house as the Placencia Assassins hosted Police United in what turned out to be a competitive and entertaining confrontation. After a rather drawn out feeling out process it’s the Assassins with the first real attempt at goal when Scott Casey deals to Leomar Leslie who lets fly a powerful left foot shot that sails over the crossbar. The Police responds off this set piece triggered by James Logan Jr. that appears to be just an inch too high for Orlando Jimenez to do something with. It’s more Police on the hunt when Devon Makin beats Jason Kelly to this ball only to fire a high riser.

We’re at the 35^th minute when Devon Makin is stripped of the ball by Luis Torres who makes him pay the highest price by slicing the ball past Japheth Young to give Placencia Assassins the 1-sip lead. 2 minutes later, the Assasssins should have doubled their lead but Ashley Torres unleashes a high riser on this open look at goal. Nevertheless, the 2-nil lead does come at the 43^rd minute when Ashley Torres fires at goal—Japheth Young punches it out to Ashley who finds the back of the net from an acute angle. We’re in early second half play when Ernie Whyte tries to make it a 3-zip lead for Placencia but fails to find the far corner of the goal. The Placencia pressure continues when Whyte sends this ball into the danger zone forcing Japheth Young to come up with a big time save.

In the meantime, the Police dodge a bullet when Zerrick Torres fires this full volley that just inches outside the sticks. The Police finally looks like the undefeated team from regular season play when Andres Makin picks out Evan Mariano who mounts an individual effort that culminates with a left foot for the only police. No doubt the Placencia Assassins dominated Police United in this home leg and deserve the 2-1 big W. Game II comes up at the F.F.B. Stadium on Saturday where the Police find themselves in the role of host in a ballgame they must win not to be relegated to the role of bridesmaid.

In other football news, play in the Stann Creek District Easter Cup over the weekend saw DYFA U-19 dump Real Juventus 3-1, Benguche and Canada Hill Aguillas settled for a 1-1 tie, Hopkins doubled BIlboa 2-1 while Umadagu U-19 and Rivas Strikers ended in a 2 all stalemate. This weekend inside the Carl Ramos Stadium, Marie Sharp takes on Valley pride and Harlem faces Southside on Friday. On Sunday, Real Juventus battles Ghans and Galindo Proper Fix goers to work against Benguche FC.

Now here are the results from Week 5 in the Old Master Challenge Cup. In the North Zone, San Juan and Trial Farm battled to a 3-3 draw. Progreso FC handles Sinbad FC in a 4-2 finish and San Estevan mashed up O.W. Police 5-zip. In the South, Guinea Grass United routed Yo Creek 8-zip, Chan Pine Ridge edged August Pine Ridge 3-2 and L.A. Boys lashed Palmar 3-zip.

Turning to cycling news, the Weekend Warriors Speed Race saw Ray Hyde of Santino’s win the 28 mile ride A-Class race in 1hr. 10mins 52 seconds missing the record by 52 seconds. Barney Brown pulled up 2^nd and Maurice Kelly 3^rd. in the B-Class, Antonio Escarpeta of BCB/FT Williams took top honors while his teammates Mark Lisbey and Floyd Williams finished 2^nd and 3^rd, respectively.

Meanwhile folks, the Female Cross Country Classic 2012 comes up this Sunday, May 12^th on the Western highway. Shalini Zabaneh goes in as defending champion but will be challenged by Kaya Cattouse this time around.

Turning to the softball scene, Belize Telemedia Limited put its undefeated record in the Belize City Female Senior Tournament yesterday inside Roger’s Stadium against Orchid Blazers. We pick up the action in the bottom of the 2^nd with B.T.L. looking to add to a 3-zip lead when Kyle McFadzean smashes Norecia Richards to the outfield only to be denied a hit by this fine catch from Shanika Hilton. In the top of the 3^rd, Mary Flowers facing Hilton with the bases loaded, unleashes this wild pitch that allows Miss Belisle to score from 3^rd base—the 1^st run scored by orchid Blazers. After walking Hilton, B.T.L. pitcher, Mary Flowers serves up this single to Agnes Lucas as Lynette Staine brings in the 2^nd run. Bases are still loaded when Joline Davis hits this ball to Elaine Humes who goes to 3^rd instead of home and another run scores to tie the ballgame at 3-apiece.

In the bottom of the 4^th, Norecia Richards faces Norecia Frazer with 2 on who smacks her for a double to bring in 2 more B.T.L. runs. The next batter up is the pitcher, Mary Flowers who hits for a double to bring in Frazer. So the Blazers bring in Ashley Lucas to pitch and after getting 2 outs, she serves up this single to Lydia Cacho who brings in Flowers for another run. Give the win to Mary Flowers and B.T.L. who go on to roll over Orchid Blazers in a 12-6 final score. In play on Thursday, Orchid Blazers humbled Hurricanes 20-2 but lost on Friday to Mirage Lady Rebels in a 5-4 decision.

Jah over all, I’m James Adderley.

Channel 5

Sports Monday’s Women Cycling Edition

Good evening I’m James Adderly and this is Sports Monday.

The Premier League of Belize reached money time inside the FFB Stadium Saturday night as Police United made its final bid to grab the 2012 Championship by playing host to the red hot Placencia Assassins who came in after winning game one of the home and away series in a 2-1 blast. Cognizant of the need to win game two the Police goes offensive from the very start as Bernard Linares gets 2 opportunities to center into the danger zone – on the 2^nd attempt he finds Trevor Lumon whose header is easily collected by goalkeeper Elias Pelayo.

Nevertheless it’s the Assassins who strike first off this set piece that Luis Torres deals to Elias Denaire and his wonderful left foot strike beats Japheth Young whose touch is not enough to keep the visitors from going up 1-zip 12 minutes in. It’s Placencia again looking to score off the corner kick but this time the Police defense does its job. Placencia Assassins now bubbling with confidence looks to double the lead when André Makin gifts this ball to Leomar Leslie and only the heroics of Japheth Young keeps the score at 1-zip.

The Police look for the equalizer off this set piece launch by Orlando Jimenez that bounces off the horizontal bar. By the way Police Untied I have to agree with referee Williams that this hand ball by captain Dalton Eiley of Placencia inside the area is an inadvertent ball to hand and should not cause a penalty kick. In fact this defensive effort by Japheth Young against Leomar Leslie is closer to a penalty call than the Eiley foul. So we go to 2^nd half and Trevor Lumon mounts this individual effort that forces Elias Pelayo into a necessary save. Meanwhile this save but Japheth Young at the other end in not necessary because it is obvious that Leomar Leslie intentionally uses his hand in this attempt to score, for which he promptly and rightly gets a yellow card. It’s Trevor Lumon again looking for the equalizer and while the shot is potent, it misses the target. Now watch this clash of heads between Trevor Lumon and Dalton Eiley off this corner kick fired by Orlando Jimenez. Both players would need medical attention and are stretchered off the field to the waiting ambulance. Lumon would not return to the fray. But here is Dalton Eiley with his head bandaged retaking his position on the field a couple of minutes later.

Folks we’re into extra time when the Police work this set piece to perfection. Jimenez deals to Leon Jones who picks out Evan Mariano and for a 2^nd week in a row the Birdman puts Police on the score board. Unfortunately it turns out to be a case of too little too late because when Leon Hones sends this set piece into the stands – the whistle brings the curtain down as Placencia Assassins wins the title with a 3-2 aggregate and we say congratulations. It’s the 2^nd year in a row that Placencia has claimed a major football title. Last year it was the Super League Championship which they wrestled from Raymond Gentle City Boys and this year they defeat Police United to grab the 1^st PLB Championship. Big respect. The Police who had an undefeated regular season could not find the win in the championship round. In the meantime, Jesse Smith of San Pedro Seadogs scored the most goals this season with 8.

Turning to the cycling scene we join yesterday’s start of the 23^rd Annual Female Cross Country Cycling Classic at San Ignacio where only 6 riders suited up for the 68.54 mile ride. To your left in the front row is defending champion Shalani Zabaneh, Marinette Flowers in next and Kirah Eiley completed the picture, while the back row features Tris Centino, rising star Kaya Cattouse and Patricia Chavarria. Heading into Georgeville we find Marinette Flowers in control of the pace and this veteran rider would sweep all 3 station prizes offered in the hills and would claim the $300.00 prize offered by M&M Engineering. However, coming out of Roaring Creek the new wimble finds Patricia Chavarria leading a 5 person group that features Kaya Cattouse, Shalani Zabaneh, Kirah Eiley and Marinette Flowers in that order.

Coming off the bridge at St. Matthews the 5 person peloton remains a compact unit. At Hattieville the big 5 remain a cohesive unit as they continue to rotate on the pace. At the Police Sub-Station Marinette Flowers is the first to jump the speed bump and indeed Flowers was involved in most of the pacing. So now its money time in a 5 person sprint. Kaya Cattouse attacked on the outside while Marinette makes her move on the inside. Shalani Zabaneh then tries to overtake Kaya but runs out of room as Kaya Cattouse of C Ray takes the win in 4 hours 29 minutes. Shalani Zabaneh of Sagitun settles for 2^nd place, Marinette Flowers hangs on to 3^rd place, Patricia Chavarria pulls up 4^th while Kirah Eiley rounds up the top 5.

Channel 5

Tuesday Edition of James Adderley’s Sports Monday

Good Evening, I’m James Adderley and this is Sports Monday.

The Women Football Championship series kicked off yesterday at the Louisiana Government School field at Orange Walk where the red hot Suga City Girls hosted the Dangriga Pumas who have emerged as a serious title contender in 2012. In the 3^rd minute of the match, the home team sets to open the scoreboard off this set piece triggered by Karen Garcia, but Sherean Vasquez handles the situation. Folks we’ve just got to say that Sherean Vasquez is on top of her game today when she comes up with this save on this well struck shot from Nathalie Macias. It’s more Suga City Girls when Karen Garcia works her way through traffic to fire from pointblank range only to miss the target. Suga City Girsls are comfortably secure in the rule of protagonist when Karen Garcia gets past 2 defensive players to punch one past Sherean Vasquez for the 1-zip lead some 35 minutes in.

Five minutes later, Shelya Reina picks out Janelle Chan who is unattended inside the box and she makes it a 2-zip lead going into intermission. Suga City Girls extended their control of the match into 2^nd half when Karen Garcia deals to Gisel Baeza whose first touch frees her up for a one on one look at Sherean Vasquez and O.W. goes up 3-nil. Gisel Baeza then outruns the Dangriga defense to slice one into the far corner for the 4-zip O.W. lead. However, in the waning minutes of the ballgame, the Pumas get the consolation goal from their captain, Nykinia Kuylen whose left foot launch bounces off Jessica McCullock for the 4-1 score. Sugar City Girls would hang on to take Game 1 in a 4-1 final score and now the scene shifts to the Carl Ramos Stadium at Dangriga for Game 2.

In other football news, play in the Stann Creek Easter Cup saw Ghans crush Foreshore Elegance 8-nil and Hopkins edged Hope Creek Pumas 2-1. Regular season concludes this weekend with Southside facing Galindo Proper Fic and Hope Creek takes on Canada Hill—that’s on Friday. While on Sunday, Benguche battles Harlem and DYFA U-19 goes up against Valley Pride. Meanwhile, we say congratulations to Umadagu U-19 who won the 7^th Annual Benguche Day Football Marathon as Southside finished 2^nd and Conquerors 3^rd.

Turning to the Volleyball scene, the action was fast and furious in the male division of the Belize District Division I competition staged inside the Belize Elementary Auditorium on Saturday as Home Protector Rebels and Jaguars battled for supremacy going into the playoffs. we pick up the action in the 4^th set as Rebels tries to close out the 5 game series in set 4 with a 2-1 lead. We’re tied at 36-apiece when Shane Gentle’s serve forces an error from Robbie Gongora that cannot be saved by Elton Moore and Jaguars lead 27 to 26. Ties at 27 points apiece, Joseph Khalid Coleman setting up Elton Moore replies in kind for the tie at 28 apiece. It’s nip and tick and this touch by Khalid Coleman is good enough to tie the game at 30 apiece.

However, Jaguars refuse to quit and off this set by Albert Bradley, Derrick Morgan returns the lead to his team. Can the Rebels come back? Albert Bradley’s serve is mishandled by Robbie Gongora who gifts the easy smash to Derrick Morgan and Jaguars force a decisive Game 5 in a 32-30 final score. They would win that game easily in a 15-9 score and it’s the Jaguars going into the playoffs as the #1 seed. This they get the bye. Home Protectors Rebels finish as the # 2 seed and Scorpions in the # 3 spot which means the Rebels and the Scorpions begin a 3-game series on Thursday to determine who faces jaguars in the Championship round.

On the female side, Moen Stars easily prevailed over FQ Stars in the opener Saturday in a 25-16, 25-13, 25-6 rout. These 2 will open the playoffs on Thursday with a 3-game series to determine who faces the # 1 seed, Lady Jaguars for the title.

Channel 5