CaribPR Wire

West Indies Cricketer, Kieran Powell.

CaribPR, LONDON, England, Mon. May 13, 2013: West Indies opening batsman, Kieran Powell, has sealed a deal with the ultra-exclusive Pinneys Plantation Resort, in the Caribbean island of Nevis.

Powell, the dashing cricketer recently described in global media reports as “enigmatic,” will partner with a prominent UK-based group of companies, who are set to develop Pinneys.

The deal comes on the heels of a successful ad campaign featuring Powell and a leading national Bank, which is set to air later this month, with the charismatic player also recently re-signing a two year deal with his long-term sponsor, Indian cricketing gear giant, Sareen Sports.

The gifted left-handed batsman, a former student of the exclusive Millfield school in England, is a star undeniably on the rise.

He has even stirred interest from Bollywood film producers out in India, owing to his model good-looks and eloquent mannerisms.

This, despite an unfortunate blow, that resulted in surgery to the finger of the stylish 23-year-old left-handed batsman two weeks ago, following an injury acquired during a regional match in early April, which has left him out of contention for the 2013 West Indies Champions Trophy squad that will compete in England next month, much to his disappointment.

Powell, however, says he is determined to get back to blistering form quickly and is concentrating hard on becoming fully fit in time for the West Indies’ forthcoming Tri-Nation Tournament against India and Sri Lanka, in late June.

One of the most successful cricketers to emerge out of his native island of Nevis, he made his Test debut against India in 2011 and scored two centuries in a single match during the Test series against Bangladesh in November of last year to become only the first West Indian player since Brian Lara, and the ninth West Indian player in history, to achieve the feat.

Powell has displayed elegance, confidence and maturity beyond his years, which saw him kick off his recent tour of Australia with a sensational knock of 83 (his highest ODI score to-date) during the West Indies v Australia ODI series, in February this year.

But it’s not all about chasing runs and bearing the fruits of his on-field success for this exciting young cricketer. Kieran Powell is also both eager and willing to give back to the game, to his fans, and to the community.

Following the ODI match against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, (SCG), during the same tour, Powell took time out to meet and greet cricket fan Callum, (pictured), an 11-year-old patient from Sydney Children’s Hospital in Randwick. The personal invitation from the international star and his Manager for Callum to attend the SCG game was an inspiring experience for the youngster, who is in remission from cancer and had just been through hip replacement surgery.

PHOTO CAPTION: Powell recently took time out to meet and greet cricket fan Callum, (pictured), an 11-year-old patient from Sydney Children’s Hospital in Randwick.

Powell also recently arranged for a cheque to be presented to the family of former West Indies cricketer and his Leeward Islands teammate, Runako Morton, who was tragically killed in a car crash in 2012.

Despite the buzz surrounding his incredible ability, the end-focus has remained firmly unchanged for the popular batsman. As the world watches in anticipation, the next steps of an exceptionally talented international cricketer, Kieran Powell remains humble, focused, committed and diligent about perfecting his craft and his first love; playing cricket and representing the West Indies.

Sponsors, advertisers, media, international leagues and tournaments seeking partnerships with, or further information on Powell, are urged to contact his London-based Manager, Emma Everett via [email protected]

CaribPR Wire, MELBOURNE, Australia, Tues. Oct. 16, 2012: Get ready for a new version of the Classic Moke motor vehicle in the Caribbean next year.

Moke International says the vehicle will be released by mid-2013. In a Joint Venture with Chery Motors and their subsidiary Sicar Engineering in China, Moke International has decided to initially produce the MOKE as a low volume car with 1,000 units per year. The new Moke will be released by mid-2013.

It has been over 20 years since the last Moke rolled off the assembly line in Portugal. Throughout the 70’s & 80’s it was considered the car with the stress free lifestyle with the attitude of no doors, no roof, no worries!

The new ‘Classic’ Moke will retain all of the unique features of the original Moke but items like engine capacity, braking systems and safety standards have been overhauled and improved on.

The manufacturer, Chery Motors, is the seventh largest China based auto manufacturer and produces over 600,000 vehicles a year. The company is also China’s top auto exporter and recently signed a joint venture with Jaguar Land Rover to manufacture their cars in China for future export.

The original Moke was designed and released in 1960 -1963 as a military vehicle that was light, compact and strong. In 1964 it was first released for public sale in Britain under the names Austin Moke and Morris Moke. In 1966 the first Mokes were produced in Australia under the name BMC MINI MOKE. The MOKE is often called a ‘Mini Moke’ as it was designed by Sir Alec Issigonis, the same designer as the famous Mini.

Due to their relaxed and fun ‘image’ the Moke is often seen in Coastal areas as a fun recreational vehicle.

In 2012 Chery Motors/ Sicar Engineering and Moke International started reengineering the Moke with new features such as 9” front disc brakes, 3-point seat belts for front and rear seats, modern car suspension technology as well as a fuel injected engine and rust proof body. There are also plans for an Electric EMoke to be released in the near future and more details regarding this will be released soon.

For more information please see the Moke International Website or alternatively contact us at [email protected] or log on to www.mokeinternational.com.

CaribPR Wire, LONDON, England, Fri. Mar. 9, 2012: Following the sudden shocking death of West Indies international cricketer, Runako Morton, in a car accident last Sunday, March 4th, the Caribbean has been in a state of mourning for an enormously popular cricketer whose career spanned 17 years at the regional, national and international levels.

In light of last weekend’s tragic events, a number of high-profile, past and present West Indies international cricketers have held talks and elected to set up a Runako Morton Tribute Fund Auction initiative, in memory of Morton, who died when his car lost control and slammed into a pole in Trinidad.

The fundraising initiative, led by West Indies international cricket all-rounder Dwayne Bravo and West Indies cricket captain Darren Sammy, will include prized, signed memorabilia from leading international cricketers and will kick off via the players’ official Twitter and Facebook accounts next Friday, March16^th, ahead of the first West Indies vs Australia ODI in St Vincent.

The initiative is set to be supported by a number of other high-profile players including Fidel Edwards, Kieran Powell, Carlos Brathwaite, Pedro Collins and Rayad Emrit.

“We felt what Runako’s family need at this time is the knowledge and comfort of knowing that they have our unwavering support  and we felt an auction of prized, signed memorabilia would be a wonderful way to make known, what an important role Runako played as a teammate and a friend,” Bravo stated.

“It is important to us that his name and his memory live on. We want his family to know that although he is gone, he is not forgotten, and we hope cricket fans around the world will join us in supporting this initiative and allow us to bring forth something positive from such a tragic event,” Captain Sammy added.

The initiative will be managed by both Bravo and Sammy’s Agent, Emma Everett, and all proceeds from the auction will be donated to the Morton family.  

Fans may participate in the ”live” auction  next Friday, March 16th, by following the players on their official Twitter accounts: @newbigdog (Dwayne Bravo) and @darrensammy88 (Darren Sammy) or via Dwayne Bravo’s fan page: Official Dwayne Bravo.

Runako Morton played in 15 Tests and 56 one-day internationals, with his last West Indies appearance coming against Australia in a Twenty20 match in 2010. He leaves behind a wife and three young children.

For further inquiries on the Runako Morton Tribute Fund Auction or to make a contribution, please contact Emma Everett via [email protected].

Dwayne Bravo

CaribPR Wire, London, England, Tue. September 20, 2011: Trinidad-born, West Indies cricketing superstar, Dwayne Bravo, is about to add another title to his already glittering resume.

The phenomenal all-rounder, who recently smashed a brilliant 106 at the star-studded Jamzone Masters’ Cup T20 match, has just released the brand new and exclusive music video to his debut hit single collaboration with internationally acclaimed dancehall artiste Beenie Man, featuring Guyanese songstress Timeka Marshall.

The right-handed batsman and right-arm medium-fast bowler released the sizzling single and music video titled “Beenie Man & Bravo” through 357 & 47 Productions, and is currently taking the airwaves by storm.

The record arrives off the back of Bravo’s recently conducted media tour in the UK during which he promised his impressively diverse fan-base to expect some exciting new projects that will mark the emergence of “Brand Bravo” through the star’s soon to be launched website: www.officialdwaynebravo.com.

The Bravo site will include action-packed features such as the exciting “DB47 Live” page, set to contain never-before-seen footage of Bravo’s celebrity lifestyle, backstage scoops of his many ongoing initiatives and LIVE interactive online sessions with his enormous worldwide following.

The debut single and website launch arrive on the heels of a highly successful and colourful international career by Bravo, 27, that spans the globe and includes signings by prestigious international teams such as the Victoria Bushrangers, Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, for Twenty20 leagues throughout the world. 

And as Bravo gears up for yet another signature venture-the Dwayne Bravo Cricket Star Search-which will follow his highly anticipated participation with championship team, the Chennai Super Kings in the coveted Champions League tournament in India, one thing is certain: Brand Bravo is taking the world by storm.

This year, the top Caribbean cricketer’s name has consistently hit 100 on the Google scale in India, as well as 58 in Australia and 39 in the UK respectively. There is no denying that Bravo’s star is rising, as sponsors and international tournaments continue to take notice and line up behind Brand Bravo.

Sponsors, advertisers, media, international leagues and tournaments seeking partnerships with Bravo are urged to contact his Agent, Emma Everett via: [email protected] or refer to www.officialdwaynebravo.com.

LIME is set to continue its aggressive grassroots marketing campaign in the Diaspora this Fall.

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. June 24, 2011: Asafa Powell and Veronica Campbell are among the top runners set for the the 2011 JAAA/Supreme Ventures Limited National Senior Championship.

 Athletic fans globally can now get a front seat to the action via live stream today, Friday June 24. The event will feature the semi-finals and finals for the 100 meters.  Over the next three days fans will see the best of the Powell and Campbell as well as Yohan Blake, Steve Mullings, Micheal Frater, Sherone Simpson, Kerron Stewart, Brigitte Foster-Hylton, Jermaine Gonzalez and Nesta Carter among others.

The meet set for the Jamaica National Stadium from June 23-June 26, 2011, is streaming live all four days and will also be available on Smartphones, bringing the world to shores of Jamaica via New Media Technologies.

 JAAA describes this as a unique opportunity to again witness Jamaica’s best athletes as they vie for their position at the 2011 World Championships.  The live stream will be broadcasted on www.jaaa.tv and www.jaaa.tv/mobile.

 “The first day of our live stream showed the commitment to our Jamaican athletes and proved that the world is watching us!!” commented Eugene Folkes, CEO of Telegens Inc. the local partner involved in providing the end-to-end on-line service.

With spaces on Jamaica’s team to the IAAF World Championships in Daegu up for grabs and unlike last year’s low-keyed championships which was void of some of the island’s top athletics stars, this year’s trials is promising a lot of fireworks, with preliminary entries showing a number of top athletes already registered to compete.

The live stream audience will be treated to two special features. The first feature will be the ability to rewind the live stream – so if you have missed a particular race you can rewind while you are watching the live stream. 

The second feature is your free access to the On Demand version which will be available within 72 hours post the closing of the meet on June 26^th, 2011.

Online visitors will have the option of either purchasing a daily ticket for U.S $5.99  or a four-day package for U.S$14.99. Mobile users will be able to test the stream first and then have the option to view the live stream for $5.99 for four days.

The Barbados Tourism Authority Picks Winning Teams through Corporate Sponsorships

CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, NEW YORK (June 13, 2011) – The Dallas Mavericks came out on top in last night’s championship game, but Barbados Fans Always Win through the Barbados Tourism Authority’s (BTA) partnership of both the Dallas Mavericks and Miami HEAT. In celebration of both teams and their fans, Barbados is offering a trip giveaway to the island of Barbados for one lucky winner in both Miami and Dallas. 

 Barbados Fans Always Win and even as the basketball competition has ended, Miami and Dallas fans can still win by visiting www.visitbarbados.org/WinDallas or www.visitbarbados.org/WinMiami to continue to support your team and enter to win a trip for two to Barbados for a 3-night stay at Almond Resorts and roundtrip airfare on American Airlines.

 “We are thrilled that both teams we’ve chosen to sponsor have made it into this year’s championship round,” says David M. Rice, President and CEO of the Barbados Tourism Authority. “Our sponsorship of both the HEAT and the Mavericks has been imperative in increasing visibility of Barbados tourism to key markets, through each team’s dedicated fan base. There is no doubt that with their successful seasons, Barbados visibility reached a maximum number of people and we look forward to continuing our partnerships in the upcoming season. We offer many congratulations to these teams for making it all the way!”

 The BTA is entering in to the final year with the Miami HEAT of a three-year corporate partnership deal.  The agreement lasting through the 2011-2012 season has encompassed internet and radio promotions, trip giveaways, in-arena visibility and advertising in addition to several dedicated “Barbados Theme Nights” with on-court performances by Barbados dance troupe Venus Rising.

Similarly, to help promote the launch of the new non-stop flight from Dallas, Texas to Bridgetown, Barbados on American Airlines, in December 2010 the BTA partnered with the Dallas Mavericks for similar promotions, in-arena visibility and dedicated theme nights to promote travel to the Caribbean island. The Mavericks contract will last through the 2012-2013 season.

 For more information on travel to Barbados, please visit: www.visitbarbados.org.

CaribPR Wire, BROOKLYN, NY, Monday, June 06, 2011:  The 2011 LIME sponsored Caribbean American Netball Association (CANA) competition will get underway in earnest this weekend – Saturday and Sunday, June 11th and 12th, at the Lincoln Terrace Park in Brooklyn, New York.

 The expectation for another successful season is on the lips and minds of almost everyone involved after last Saturday’s opening day rally, uniform parade and march past in  front of a lively audience that included Sheldon Keens-Douglas, regional head of sponsorship for telecommunication giant LIME, and Carole Hokrein, Secretary of the United States of America Netball Association – USANA.

 ”LIME is pleased to be associated with CANA in building awareness for the sport here in the USA and by extension, deepening the cultural bond between the brand and the overseas Caribbean community here in New York City,” noted Keens-Douglas; in town at the  opening ceremony for the 15th annual Netball season this past Saturday, Lincoln Terrace Park, Brooklyn, the home for this season’s tournament.

 This is the second of a multi-year deal between LIME, and CANA, who insists the partnership is already paying dividends.  “The outlook for the season ahead could not be better,” said Jackie Farrell, Public Relations Officer for CANA. “On the court, we expect keen yet friendly competition from the teams in all four divisions and thanks to our corporate partners and media interest and (our) crowd support is growing.”

 With a number of teams being promoted from last season, Saturday’s opening day results got more than a passing grade from Hokrien, who is busy preparing for the USA National Championships to be hosted by CANA at Queens College, Flushing here in New York City on June 25th and 26th.

 ”Contrary to popular belief, the sport is alive and well. Just look at the color and competition on display despite the limitations,” Hokrein noted, pointing to what she said was not the best surface to play on at this level.

 Crusaders Netball Club proved to be the best on display, topping the opening rally, ahead of MINC and Sunsplash. In the uniform parade, new comers Pivot NC created something of an upset, finishing in second place, behind Volcanoes NC and ahead of Islanders NC.

 Thirteen clubs are expected to start the regular season on Saturday at noon at the park.

 ABOUT LIME

 LIME, (formerly Cable & Wireless), is the Caribbean`s leading telecommunications company, currently servicing 14 Caribbean countries. LIME has kept the people of the Caribbean connected for more than 100 years and is focused on providing products and services that improve the lives of Caribbean people every day whether they live in the region or are part of the Diaspora.  LIME offers Top Up service to connect those living in the US to friends and family in the Caribbean. LIME`s aim is to deliver the best communication services at the best value across the board-full stop. LIME for living every day.  Visit www.lime.com to learn  more.

 ABOUT CANA

CANA – Caribbean American Netball Association started its first inaugural season in 1996 and is dedicated to the development and growth of netball in the USA with an emphasis on participation, individual progress, team unity, good health and education of youths.

CaribPR Wire, Kingston, Jamaica, Thurs. May 5, 2011: The JN-IAAF International Invitational Meet has been upgraded to world challenge status, with a powerful contingent of world-class athletes to be held at the National Stadium on May 7, 2011.  

 The list of Jamaican and international champions expected to perform include Veronica Campbell-Brown, Shelly Ann Fraser-Pryce, Sherone Simpson, Asafa Powell, Kerron Stewart, Novelene Williams-Mills, Yohan Blake to name a few.

This is a unique opportunity to show the world Jamaica’s top class athletes, on their turf in all their glory.  Technology allows the JAAA (Jamaica Athletic Administrative Association) to not only showcase Jamaica’s athletes during this live stream but to have a platform where the world can come back and view the events On Demand. 

On the day of the event, online visitors and mobile users will be treated to the “Live Stream” of the  pre-meet show and opening ceremony  for  free, and the International portion of the event as  a pay-per-view , for a fee of  U.S.$5.99 to view the meet from their PCs   via www.trackandfieldja.com/live  and  U.S.$2.99 from mobiles via www.jaaa.tv.  Post the event, all visitors who purchased tickets for the “Live Stream” will be able to view the “On Demand” version of the event anytime from their computer at www.trackandfieldja.com/live.   Individuals who did not purchase a ticket for the “LIVE STREAM”   will be charged a fee for “On Demand.” 

 Visitors can also now preregister from their PCs   via www.trackandfieldja.com/live  and  from mobiles via www.jaaa.tv.

CaribPR Wire, KINGSTON, Jamaica, Mon. May 2, 2011: The JN-IAAF International Invitational meet to be held at the National Stadium on May 7, 2011, is now of even greater importance on the calendars of sporting enthusiasts in Jamaica and internationally, says Earl Jarrett, General manager of the Jamaica National Building Society (JNBS) speaking at the launch of the Invitational Meet at the Wyndham Kingston Hotel, Jamaica on April 14, 2011.

At the launch Howard Aris, President of Jamaica Amateurs Athletic Association (JAAA) indicated that the event would also be streamed on the JAAA’s website www.trackandfieldja.com/live  for a fee. What was described last year by one publication as a “Spectator’s Dream” will benefit this year from further worldwide exposure as the event will be broadcasted via the Internet to computers and mobile phones globally. “We are pleased to be partnering again with the JAAA on this prestigious event and assisting in the monetization of their assets on-line. Along with our team of highly experienced international partners and the best of breed systems that we bring to bear, we are confident that this partnership can only but help to position the JAAA to augur well from the export of the rich heritage of Jamaica’s athletics capabilities and ultimately facilitate the development our creative industries”, says Eugene Ffolkes, CEO of Telegens Inc. the local partner involved in providing the end-to-end on-line service.

The Invitational Meet started in 2004 as a regional competition and after last year’s event it was upgraded to World Challenge status, which is just below the Diamond League level in the International Amateur Athletic Foundation (IAAF) rankings.  Fans can expect to see some of the world’s finest athletic talent including Veronica Campbell-Brown, Shelly Ann Fraser-Pryce, Asafa Powell, Johann Blake, Wallace Spearman, Carmelita Jeter, Sanya Richards, Christine Ohuruogu and Debbie Ferguson to name just a few of the world champions lined up to perform.

On the day of the event, online visitors and mobile users will be treated to the “Live Stream” of the  pre-meet show and opening ceremony  for  free, and the International portion of the event as  a pay-per-view , for a fee of  U.S.$5.99 to view the meet from their PCs   via www.trackandfieldja.com/live  and  U.S.$2.99 from mobiles via www.jaaa.tv.  Post the event, all visitors who purchased tickets for the “Live Stream” will be able to view the “On Demand” version of the event anytime from their computer at www.trackandfieldja.com/live.  Individuals who did not purchase a ticket for the “LIVE STREAM”   will be charged a fee for “On Demand.”

CaribPR Wire, ENGLEWOOD, Colo., Tues. Feb. 15, 2011 – DISH Network L.L.C., the leader in international programming in the United States, today announced that it is delivering an all-access pass to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, ensuring that cricket fans across the country won’t miss a second of the action. Plus for the first time, DISH Network will offer coverage of the tournament in high definition.

The ICC Cricket World Cup, held every four years, will be co-hosted in the sub-continent by Bangladesh, India and Sri Lanka, and features a 14-nation pool competing for the title. The event opens with Bangladesh playing India on Feb. 19 and will conclude with the championship match in Mumbai on April 2.

DISH Network will offer the tournament in HD on Pay-Per-View for its satellite customers as well as distribute the Cricket World Cup in SD through its recently launched IPTV service, DISH World, which allows customers to access DISH Network programming without the need for a satellite dish. Matches are available on a live and delay basis, plus, customers have access to highlights of the day’s matches, broadcast immediately following the full replay of the match. Customers may also record the matches with DISH Network’s award-winning DVR technology. 

In addition, DISH Network customers with a broadband-connected, Sling^®-enabled receiver have the ability to watch every match on compatible 3G and WiFi-enabled phones, laptops or tablets, including the iPhone^® and iPod touch^®, iPad™, Android™ smartphones and tablets, Windows^® and Mac^® Computers, and select BlackBerry^® devices.

“DISH Network leads the industry with 72 South Asian channels, and we are proud to again bring the Cricket World Cup to our viewers – this year in high definition – and that our broadband-connected, Sling-enabled customers have the ability to watch it live on a variety of mobile devices,” said Chris Kuelling, vice president of International Programming for DISH Network. “In addition, customers without a satellite dish can enjoy the Cricket World Cup through our DISH World IPTV service.”

Now until Feb. 19, customers can order the ICC Cricket World Cup for an early bird price of $129. After Feb. 19, the event will be available for $149. To order, visit www.dishnetwork.com/cricket, call 877-DISH-PPV (347-4778), or for IPTV service visit www.dishworldiptv.com or call 877-474-4788. Commercial customers can order by calling 1-800-454-0843. DISH Network has licensed its Cricket World Cup rights from Willow TV. 

 ###

About DISH Network

DISH Network L.L.C., the U.S. leader in international programming, provides more than 200 ethnic channels in 29 languages – more than any other pay-TV provider. To learn more about DISH Network’s South Asian programming, visit www.dishnetwork.com/international.

CaribPR Wire, Weds. Sept. 1, 2010: Multiple champions Jamaica completed an unprecedented double last Sunday at Lincoln Terrace Park in Brooklyn, NY when the New York Sunshine Girls were again crowned champions in both the senior and junior divisions of the LIME-sponsored Caribbean American Netball Association’s (CANA) Caribbean Cup Tournament.

 Oozing confidence, the New York Sunshine Girls beat back all other teams, as they copped yet another title in a competition they have dominated over the years. Under the tutelage of Coach Sonia Sewell, the former Jamaica national representative, the Jamaican team was ruthless in disposing of all challengers in the finale of the summer netball season.

 The Seniors defeated Barbados, 23-18 in the finals to complete a very productive afternoon for the ‘black, green and gold’ standard bearers. The Juniors had earlier turned back Grenada, 18-15, to set the stage for the seniors to complete the double in a stirring end of season display before a colorful crowd numbering in the thousands.

 On their way to the title, the Sonia Sewell-coached senior squad was to suffer a minor hiccup by falling to Grenada 18-16 in a keenly contested preliminary game.  Grenada edged Jamaica after the New York Sunshine girls had taken an early lead in the game.

The Jamaicans then inexplicably chose to expend as much energy bickering among themselves and with the game officials, than actually playing netball. However, the Jamaican girls would later re-group to make light work of the game as they overmatched, Sri Lanka (the only non-West Indian team in the competition) and the other challengers to barrel their way to the final.

Teams representing Jamaica, Grenada, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Sri Lanka and Barbados played in the round robin tournament, which brought the curtain down on the summer long netball fiesta, sponsored by telecom provider LIME, the new approach to Cable & Wireless.

According to Andrea Bullens, the marketing manager of BullzII Marketing, Inc.,  LIME’s sponsorship of the netball tournament is a seamless progression in the company’s effort to break into the New York market.

“LIME is new to this market and as the platinum sponsors of the netball tournament, gives us a chance to partner with a grassroots base,” she said.

The 2010 CANA season comprised three competitions, the divisional tournament and the KO tournament involving over 30 clubs and the Caribbean Cup championship.

PHOTO CAPTION: Sheldon Keens Douglas, LIME’s Regional Head of Sponsorship, presents the trophy to a representative of the winning team.  (Sharon Bennett image)

CaribPR Wire, BROOKLYN, NY. Tues. Aug. 24, 2010: More than the usual national pride and bragging rights will be at stake this weekend Saturday August 28^th and Sunday August 29th, at the Lincoln Terrace Park on East New York and Buffalo Avenues in Brooklyn, NY when the final shrill of the umpire’s whistle is sounded and the curtain closes on the 13^th season of the LIME-sponsored Caribbean American Netball Association (CANA) tournament. 

“I am expecting full participation especially from the teams from the islands, as we present the LIME/CANA Caribbean Cup Netball Championship and closing ceremony on Sunday evening,” said Cheryl Howell, President of the League.

 Howell and her executive team are hoping that all eight eligible nations will take part in the championship, which will be played using the round robin, aggregate win system; meaning that teams will play against each other and the team with the most wins (points), will be declared the winner.

 Defending champions Jamaica and seven other teams will contest the Senior Cup. They are: Africa, Barbados, Grenada, St. Vincent & Grenadines (SVG), St. Lucia, Trinidad & Tobago and the U.S.A.

 “I expect perennial winners Jamaica to get some competition this year from St. Vincent & The Grenadines,” said Howell, noting that the SVG team includes the talented Joleen Christopher (GA), of Flying Targets NC and captain of the CANA Senior squad.

 Jamaica will counter with the gutsy and versatile Petra ‘Nina’ Williams (GA, GS).

 And, if the volcanic Dawn Small gets going and is able to play her game, Barbados should not be counted out of the top spot, according to Howell, who thinks that this is CANA’s lucky year due in large measure to the corporate partnership struck with LIME (Cable & Wireless) and Western Union, among others.

 Sharing the closing weekend spotlight in the park will be a contest for the juniors as well. Five teams are expected to compete: U.S.A., Jamaica, Barbados, St. Vincent & The Grenadines and Grenada.

 Other attractions on Sunday will include exhibition matches involving the CANA Under-21 team against a CANA Senior team and the Brooklyn Navigators (male team) Netball Club. Action in the Caribbean Cup Championship will tip off at 1 p.m., weather permitting.

 “We feel this is a nice way to end what has been a good netball season here in Brooklyn and I hope the community will come out in bigger numbers and support the girls and guys,” President Howell said.

 LIME is collaborating with CANA to make this another Brooklyn coming out party on the heels of the Labor Day holiday weekend celebrations and festivities. A number of senior executives from the company are expected to be in attendance.

 Patrons attending the season ending games will be treated to ‘goodies’ from the regional telecommunications company while players and teams will be presented with their trophies and other incentives for a successful season.

 On Saturday, the divisional finals for the knock-out competition will also be played, starting at 5 p.m. A total of four matches will be played to determine the winners of the Junior, Intermediate, Seniors2 and Seniors1 categories for 2010.  All the games including the big showdown at the Caribbean Cup on Sunday starting at 1 p.m. is free and open to the public.

ABOUT LIME

LIME, (formerly Cable & Wireless), is the Caribbean`s leading telecommunications company. LIME has kept the people of the Caribbean connected for more than 100 years. LIME is focused on providing products and services that improve the lives of Caribbean people every day whether they live in the region or are part of the Diaspora. LIME`s aim is to deliver the best communication services at the best value across the board–full stop. LIME–for living every day.

Photo Caption:

 Cheryl Howell, President of the Brooklyn-based Caribbean American Netball Association (CANA). (Photo courtesy of Sharon Bennett)

CaribPR Wire, BROOKLYN, NY. Tuesday, August 17, 2010: They stride into the Lincoln Terrace Park at Buffalo & East New York Avenues in Brooklyn, New York just before game time each weekend, pushing strollers with one hand as a sports bag weighs down one shoulder and a folding chair the other. Moments later they are dressed and ready to play.

 They are the sports moms of netball – migrants from several LIME Caribbean territories who are proud to call New York City home.  The above scenario has played out every weekend since June 5^th at the park, the playing headquarters for the LIME/CANA (Caribbean American Netball Association) endorsed tournament, which turns 13 years this year.

 As the umpire’s whistle sounded shortly after 6 pm, on Saturday, August 14th and fans took up their positions around the touch lines, it soon became clear that there were 96 degrees of separation between the teams on this humid summer evening.

 It was a different atmosphere in the park, with teams knowing that a loss meant the end of a promising season and more than time enough to ponder ‘what if’, looking ahead to the off-season.

 “The atmosphere on the court and in the park was different, more hustle, more purpose in the play,” noted veteran administrator (player/coach/umpire) Kunkel Blaine.

 In the span of sixty minutes, that separation would translate into a 47-16 victory for Pitons2 over Spice Girls in the Seniors2 division, as the single elimination or knockout phase of the tournament tipped off.

 The result means an early summer vacation for the Spice Girls and the other losing teams, as you must win to stay in the competition and move on.

 Powered by their athletic center, Sharm Jean Pierre, Pitons2 left no doubt about their second place finish in the crowded and competitive division, scoring at will against an undermanned Spice Girls unit that finished their divisional campaign, one place (11) from the bottom.

 Pierre, a former St. Lucia national junior player, was as generous off the court as she was during the match, insisting that the entire team contributed to the delivery of the KO punch to the opposition.

 “It was one of our easier games so far this season as all the players contributed. It was a team effort,” she said.

 And true to form, the weekend schedule produced no surprises, as the seeded teams all advanced to this weekend’s quarter-final round. Among them are Crusaders and Typhoon.

 Much of the buzz will no doubt be on Senior division champions Volcanoes2, as they go for the double. They closed out division play with an emphatic 57-17 win over Flying Targets that had the coaching staff singing their praise.

 Tip-off this Saturday, August 21st is at the usual 4 p.m. and there is no cover charge.

 ABOUT LIME

LIME, (formerly Cable & Wireless), is the Caribbean`s leading telecommunications company. LIME has kept the people of the Caribbean connected for more than 100 years. LIME is focused on providing products and services that improve the lives of Caribbean people every day whether they live in the region or are part of the Diaspora. LIME`s aim is to deliver the best communication services at the best value across the board–full stop. LIME–for living every day.

PHOTO CAPTION:

 A Pitons2 GK gets into her defensive stance as her Spice Girls opponent prepares to shoot, during knockout round action at the LIME/CANA tournament at the Lincoln Terrace Park, Brooklyn, last weekend, August 15^th, 2010. Pitons2 won the match.(Sharon Bennett Photo)

CaribPR Wire, BROOKLYN, NY, Tues. Aug. 10, 2010: The preliminary round of the LIME-sponsored Caribbean American Netball Association, (CANA) tournament, which began June 5^th, ended on a high note for a number of clubs and individuals and an even keel for others, on the weekend of August 8th.

 One such person on a high is Cheryl Howell, president of the league which recently turned thirteen. Holding center court at the Lincoln Terrace Park, Brooklyn last weekend, Howell’s mood was very upbeat as she looked ahead to the next phase of the 2010 season, starting this weekend with events on and off the court.

 Minus a few ‘make up’ games to complete the league schedule, Volcanoes and Sharecroppers (Juniors); Pitons and Senators (Intermediate); Upsetters and Crusaders (Seniors2) and Upsetters and Volcanoes (Seniors), head into the single elimination or knock out round with a lot of confidence, after outstanding, all-round performances in their respective divisions.

 “So far, so good,” noted Howell when asked about the on court performances to date this season. All thirty-one teams representing 15 clubs, head into the KO round, where you win to stay in.

 While crowd support has not been huge so far, President Howell says she is satisfied. However, other areas of concern for her are  umpiring/officiating and cooperation from the teams or clubs on game days.

 “We are going to look at the League to see how and where we can make improvements now that we have corporate relationships with LIME (Cable & Wireless) and Western Union, among others,” insists Howell.

 Barring no changes to the results from last weekend, the 2010 division winners will be: Volcanoes4 (Juniors) and Upsetters1 (Seniors); A2 (Upsetters2, Crusaders, 43 points), and Intermediate (Pitons, Senators, 31 points). Tie-breakers will be used to determine the winners.

 Two of the 9 matches played last weekend, ended in a draw. Typhoon topped the 50 point plateau against Volcanoes Inc., and Volcanoes2 flattened the competition with a lopsided 20-1 score-line over Crusaders1. The results from the League competition will be used to rank (seed) the teams in the KO round, which tips off at 4 p.m. this Saturday, August 14th.

 Meanwhile, CANA will stage its first fundraiser for the season, in the form of a dance party, after the games at the popular Prince Hall, 70 Pennsylvania Avenue, between Fulton/Atlantic Avenues, in Brooklyn, New York. Start time is 10 p.m.

 Classified results from the Saturday/Sunday, August 7-8, 2010 matches:

 Typhoon2/Sunsplash, 31-31

 Crusaders3/Islanders2, 29-25

 Pitons3/Senators2, 31-25

Volcanoes Inc/Typhoon2, 31-50

Senators1/Crusaders2, 24-30

Upsetters2/Typhoon1, 44-18

Sunsplash/United1, 28-28 and Upsetters1/Flying Target, 49-23.

 ABOUT LIME

LIME, (formerly Cable & Wireless), is the Caribbean`s leading telecommunications company. LIME has kept the people of the Caribbean connected for more than 100 years. LIME is focused on providing products and services that improve the lives of Caribbean people every day whether they live in the region or are part of the Diaspora. LIME`s aim is to deliver the best communication services at the best value across the board–full stop. LIME–for living every day.

Photo Caption:

Players from Senators, (left), and Sunsplash, (right), look ahead as they move forward to the single elimination (KO) phase of the LIME/CANA season starting on Saturday, August 14, at the Lincoln Terrace Park, Brooklyn, NY.(Photo courtesy of Sharon Bennett.)

CaribPR Wire, BROOKLYN, NY. Tuesday, August 03, 2010: Vincentian Raymond Delpesche knows a thing or two about the sport of netball. However, living in the vicinity of the Lincoln Terrace Park – East New York & Buffalo Avenues – Brooklyn, all these years, he never felt the urge to ‘drop in’ on the girls (ladies) before now.

Delpesche’s story has scores of similarities in the park each week since June 5, when the league opened with a new lease on life, thanks to a partnership with LIME, formerly Cable & Wireless, the Caribbean regional telecommunications giant.

 Walking by the facility, he sensed a different kind of buzz and decided to satisfy his curiosity, somewhat!  He would not be disappointed -the physical play, good; the physique on display – interesting.

 Delpesche, who works as a business consultant in Brooklyn, spent Saturday afternoon watching the intermediate division match with Senators and Crusaders, which was a close contest throughout.

 “I like what I am seeing, the sport is a great way for the ladies to keep busy and stay in shape, the same way the men have their soccer and cricket leagues,” he said.

 At the end of the regulation forty minutes, either team could have won. The result, a narrow 4 point win margin, (26-22), for the Lady Senators, helped by their one-two offensive punch of Clavern Clarke (GA) and Kimberly Harewood (GS).

 Clarke, a junior, was happy with her performance, relishing the opportunity to ‘play up’ – in a higher division – and help the bigger girls.

 “It was a hard game and a difficult one but one of the few occasion when you get to play at a higher level, it was ok,” she said after the match.

 Senators used a balanced team effort to stay ahead for the first three quarters 23-17. Crusaders’ Kereda Tucker (GA) and Aneisha DeSouza (GK) stepped up their game in the fourth period, outscoring Senators 5-3, but the damage was already done.

 The match was one of sixteen on the weekend schedule (Saturday/Sunday) as the 13^th season of the LIME/Caribbean American Netball Association (CANA) tournament nears its end.

 This coming weekend schedule – tip off at 4 p.m., both days – will conclude the preliminary, round-robin phase, making way for the knock-out phase, starting at the same venue on Saturday, August 14, at 4 p.m.

 ABOUT LIME

LIME, (formerly Cable & Wireless), is the Caribbean`s leading telecommunications company. LIME has kept the people of the Caribbean connected for more than 100 years. LIME is focused on providing products and services that improve the lives of Caribbean people every day whether they live in the region or are part of the Diaspora. LIME`s aim is to deliver the best communication services at the best value across the board–full stop. LIME–for living every day.

Photo caption: A Spice Girls player (green/white uniform), gets the better of her Senators’ opponent (yellow/blue/white), during last weekend’s senior division match at the Lincoln Terrace Park, Brooklyn. A player from the two teams (at right) watch the action in anticipation. (Sharon Bennett Photo.)

CaribPR Wire, BROOKLYN, NY. Monday, July 26, 2010 — It is becoming a little bit clearer which clubs are playing the better ball as the 13th season of the LIME endorsed Caribbean American Netball Association tournament heads into the home stretch.

Unfazed by the rain which forced the postponement of four matches on Sunday afternoon, Volcanoes4 (Juniors), Pitons3 (Intermediate), Upsetters2 (Seniors2) and Volcanoes2 (Seniors), scored impressive victories to move to the top of their division.

With four rounds to go, Volcanoes4 look set to take top honors among the juniors, cruising to their fourth straight win (4-0), by an easy 28-12 margin over SunSplash3.

In the senior division, Volcanoes2 is making a run for top honors, picking up two big wins on the weekend. They clobbered Pitons1, 40-24 on Saturday evening and returned on Sunday for another laugher, a 49-31 outcome. In the Saturday evening feature, the result was never in doubt with the veteran pair of Yvonne Vernon (WD) and Anciel Langaigne (GS), outplaying the opposing pair of Tisha Pike (GD) and Nikita McSween (GK).

In the A2 section where 11 teams are contending and where the competition is fever pitch, Upsetters2 has a slim one game lead over Pitons2.  Upsetters2 were twice as good as Senators1 on Sunday, winning 33-17, in pretty much the same way that Pitons2 had their way with SunSplash1, 31-17, on Saturday.

Pitons3 are ahead by  a mere point (21) in the Intermediate section after their narrow 33-30 win over United2. Unbeaten Senators2 which did not have a game last weekend, remain on 20 points.

In one other game of note on Saturday, Crusaders were 44-32 winners over United1 to remain in striking distance on 26 points, 10 points (2 games) out of first place.

Key match ups this weekend at the Lincoln Terrace Park, Brooklyn, include, Crusaders3 against Senators2 on Saturday at 5:30 pm, and on Sunday at 6:00 pm, Upsetters2 (7-1) taking on Crusaders2 (5-1) for  leadership of the A2 division..

Scoreboard.
Saturday, July 24, 2010.
Senators 3      Vs    Typhoon 3 18/1 Senators 3
Volcanoes 4   Vs   Sun Splash 3 28/12 Volcanoes  4
Pitons 3  Vs  United 2 33/30 Pitons 3
Antillians 1   Vs   Typhoon 1 32/25 Typhoon 1
Volcanoes 3   Vs    Spice girls 54/25 Volcanoes 3
Sun Splash 1    Vs  Pitons 2 31/17 Pitons 2
Crusaders 2  Vs   United 1 44/32 Crusaders 2
Untouchables 1   Vs    Senators 1 35/29 Untouchables 1
Volcanoes 2  Vs  pitons 1 40/24 Volcanoes 2

Sunday, July 25.

Islanders 2   Vs  Typhoon 2  Rain out
Crusaders 2      Vs        Volcanoes 3  Rain out
Untouchables 1   Vs  Pitons 2  Rain out
Up Setters 2    Vs   Senators 1 33/17 Up setters 2
Volcanoes 2       Vs    Pitons 1 49/31 Volcanoes 2
Typhoon 1    Vs   United 1 31/25 Typhoon 1
Sun splash 1    Vs     Spice Girls 44/25 Sun Splash 1
Crusaders 1  Vs   Up Setters 1 Default Up Setters 1

ABOUT LIME
LIME, (formerly Cable & Wireless), is the Caribbean`s leading telecommunications company. LIME has kept the people of the Caribbean connected for more than 100 years. LIME is focused on providing products and services that improve the lives of Caribbean people every day whether they live in the region or are part of the Diaspora. LIME`s aim is to deliver the best communication services at the best value across the board–full stop. LIME–for living every day.

Photo caption: BALL GIRLS. Pitons (left) and Crusaders (right), are just two of the many teams in the hunt for vital points and the top spot in the senior division in the LIME/CANA 2010 Summer Netball tournament which continues this weekend (Sat/Sun) with a full schedule of matches at the Lincoln Terrace Park (East New York & Buffallo Avenues), Brooklyn. NY. Tip off time is 4 p.m. each day. (Sharon Bennett Photo)

 (High resolution image available upon request.)

 CaribPR Wire, BROOKLYN, NY, Tuesday, July 20, 2010: Pitons1 picked up a pair of wins on the weekend to move into joint first place with Upsetters1 atop the senior division, as the LIME sponsored Caribbean American Netball Association (CANA) summer league continued at the Lincoln Terrace Park, Brooklyn.

 With contenders Upsetters1 enjoying the weekend off, challengers Pitons1 made up considerable ground against Flying Target, scoring a close 43-37 win on Saturday evening. Meeting again in Sunday’s night-cap, Pitons1 kept their opponents grounded for most of the match, to come away with a 45-31 win margin.

 One level down, Upsetters2 assumed sole leadership of the division (A2) with 31 points from 6 wins and a loss (6-1), beating Untouchables1, 40-33 on Sunday. Pitons2 defeated Volcanies3, 43-22 on the same schedule for second place on 25 points. They are unbeaten in five matches (5-0) since the season opened on June 5. Crusaders2 which defeated Antillians 39-31 on Saturday, are in the third spot with 21 points four points ahead of Volcanoes3, Senators1 and Typhoon1.

 Facing what would have been their first defeat of the season, Senators2 held on for a nervous, high spirited, two points win (34-32) against Islanders2, to remain in the top spot in the Intermediate division on 20 points.

 In one other match in the Intermediate division, Typhoon2 using a full court press and steady shooting , handed Pitons3 their first loss of the season, 32-29. Romula Abbott (GS) and Trisha Evans (GD), kept Pitons3 in the game but the difference maker was Kursel Lewis, playing at center for Typhoon2, third in the division on 12 points, Pitons3 picked up a point from the loss and are in the second spot on 16 points.

 In the Juniors, Sharecroppers maintained their perfect record (3-0), and top ranking, getting by Islanders3 18-15 in a squeaker. Sunsplash3 registered their first win of the season with a 15-8 margin over Senators3. Tied a 4-4 at the halftime break, GS Shivanna Brown  gave her team breathing room with her shoot touch from under the basket. Center Akalia Tomlinson had a good game for Senators3, still searching for their first win.

 The Scorecard:

Juniors: Sharecroppers/Islanders3, 18/15; Sunsplash3/Senators3, 15/8.

Intermediate: Pitons3/Typhoon2, 29/32;  Islanders2/Senators2, 32/34.

SeniorsA2: antillian/Crusaders2, 31/39; Pitons2/Volcanoes3, 43/22; Sunsplash1/Senators1, 26/28; Untouchables1/Upsetters2, 33/40.

Seniors: Pitons1/Flying Targets, 43/37; Volcanoes2/Upsetters1, 34/30; Pitons1/Flying Targets, 45/31.

 Another 18 matches will be played this coming weekend (July 24, 25), with the first match on both days tipping off at 4 p.m.

 LIME, (formerly Cable & Wireless), is the Caribbean’s leading telecommunications company. LIME has kept the people of the Caribbean connected for more than 100 years. LIME is focused on providing products and services that improve the lives of Caribbean people every day whether they live in the region or are part of the Diaspora.

LIME’s aim is to deliver the best communication services at the best value across the board–full stop. LIME–for living every day.

PHOTO CAPTION: 

HOLDING COURT:  A Pitons3 player (left, airborne) won the ball as a teammate (center) watches, but Typhoon (right), won the battle of the two Intermediate division rivals during Saturday’s (July 17) match in the LIME/CANA summer tournament in Brooklyn. Typhoon won 32/29 over Pitons3.

CaribPR Wire, Brooklyn, NY. Tuesday, July 13, 2010: Four teams competing for the title of LIME/Caribbean American Netball Association champion 2010 moved closer to grabbing the trophy after topping their respective divisions last weekend. 

 Volcanoes4 moved to the top in the Junior round while Pitons3 moved up to top the Intermediate round. Upsetters2 and Crusaders1 moved atop the Seniors 2 and Seniors divisions at the end of last weekend’s eighth round of competition at the Lincoln Terrace Park courts at East New York and Buffalo Avenues in Brooklyn, New York.

 Both Saturday and Sunday featured a near full schedule of sixteen matches but it was Upsetters2 and Pitons3 who jumped ahead of the standings after scoring two wins each.

 With half of the schedule still outstanding, Pitons3 crushed the competition twice on the weekend to set off whispers about a promotion to the senior division next season.

 They separated themselves from Crusaders3 in every department, winning 39-15 on Saturday and returning on Sunday to put the exclamation on a badly outclassed Islanders2 team 37-18.

 Pitons3 share top billing at this stage with Senators2 – 15 points. Senators 2 remained unbeaten with a lopsided 42-28 win over Volcanoes Inc.

 Crusaders1 moved to 17 points and the top spot in the ladies division, easily outscoring Pitons1, 40-26.  Upsetters1 which has the same points total, did not play on the weekend.

 With Pitons2 dropping full points to Senators1, 31-27 for their first loss of the season on Saturday afternoon, former champions Upsetters paraded one of the best unit in the park, literally walking over a Spice Girls team that clearly did not come to play. The final score in the match was a woeful 45-13.

 It was a bad weekend for Pitons2 and one they will want to quickly forget. With a chance to at least share the division lead, they stumbled badly, dropping their second match inside 24 hours, failing miserably against the run and shoot, up tempo style of Upsetters2, 52-27. It was clear that they were still recovering from the bruising on Saturday, that had the two teams at each other’s throat and umpire Andre Edwin, hot under the collar.

The pair of Captain Sharon Pierre and Sarah Marcelle did well to keep Pitons2 in the game up to the end of the third quarter, when a questionable call by umpire Edwin, forced a time-out. Senators played the final quarter under protest and almost lost their cool had it not been for the red hot shooting of Karen Charles on offence and Tanika Mercurius.

Other results on the weekend were; Untouchables1/United1, 37-34; Volcanoes3/Typhoon1, 25-31; Sunsplash2/Typhoon2, 38-22; Volcanoes4/Sharecroppers, 32-16; Antillian1/United1, 36-38; Untouchables1/Spice Girls, 40-19; Crusaders2/Sunsplash1, 33-29.

 The tournament continues with 14 matches this weekend – July 17th and 18^th, respectively.  Start time for each match is 4 p.m.

PHOTO CAPTION: 

A Volcanoes teammate left, erupts for one of her team’s 25 points but that would not be enough as rivals Typhoon (center) blew by for a winning 31-25 score-line in LIME/CANA tournament (senior2 division) action at Lincoln Terrace Park, Brooklyn on Saturday, July 10, 2010.

CaribPR Wire, BROOKLYN, NY., Tuesday, July 6, 2010: The LIME (Cable & Wireless) sponsored Caribbean American Netball Association, (CANA), 2010 summer league continues at the Lincoln Terrace Park (East New York & Buffalo Avenues), Brooklyn, NY, on Saturday and Sunday, July 10th and 11th.

 The two day, weekend schedule of fifteen matches will see teams in the hunt for vital points and a chance to boost their division standings.  This coming weekend schedule covers rounds 7 and 8 of the regular season and will be an important marker, following last weekend’s one day break to facilitate the Sunday, July 4th Independence holiday.

 With six matches making up last Saturday’s round six schedule, former league, state and national champions Upsetters scored two impressive wins in the senior division to stay in touch with Volcanoes in the race for top honors.

 With the pivotal height advantage in their favor, Volcanoes’ second team used quick, accurate passing and shooting to separate themselves from Crusaders first team. A five points difference, (36-31), separated the teams at the end of a contest that was even too hot for the umpires to handle.

 Pitons2 were 35-29 winners over Typhoons1 and Volcanoes’ third team were 25-20 winners over Untouchables in another senior division match, but the fireworks were on court 2 where Upsetters had to pull out all the tricks in the playbook in grounding rivals Flying Targets, for a final 45-37 score.

 With both teams parading national talent, there were no easy goals or points. Upsetters held a one point lead, 10-9, at the quarter, a 3 points lead, 22-19, at the half and a six points margin, 32-26, after 3 quarters.

 In one other senior division match, Upsetters2 defeated United1 32-26. In the intermediate division, United2 won a face-saver 27-25 over Typhoon2 in a game marked by poor shooting under the basket.

 This is the 13^th season for the CANA summer league and the first for LIME as sponsors. Tip off for Saturday’s schedule of matches is at 4 p.m.

ABOUT LIME

LIME, (formerly Cable & Wireless), is the Caribbean’s leading telecommunications company. LIME has kept the people of the Caribbean connected for more than 100 years. LIME is focused on providing products and services that improve the lives of Caribbean people every day whether they live in the region or are part of the Diaspora.

LIME’s aim is to deliver the best communication services at the best value across the board–full stop. LIME–for living every day.