Bermuda Sports Journal - Issue 2 by bermudasportsjournal

BERMUDA

SPORTS APRIL • MAY • JUNE | 2020

2 Time Bermuda Paralympian

JESSICA LEWIS

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

BERMUDA

SPORTS

Administration

Contributing Writers

Nathalee S. Simons

Betty Doyling (Health and Fitness)

Co-founder and Financial Controller

Ras Mykkal Simons

Co-founder, Creative Director and Photographer

Contributing Writer Don Burgess Writer

Marketing & Design Ras Mykkal with Support from SJDWorld.com Layout & Graphic Design

RAS MYKKAL I N N O VAT I O N S

Disclaimer The Bermuda Sports Journal was established in part because many of the sporting organizations have not kept records of the achievements of their athletes whether it be in photographs, documented history, or statistics. As people grow older, memories fade and is forgotten, therefore, unrecorded information frequently become fables. The goal of the Bermuda Sports Journal is to interview people and document their stories to ensure preservation of all their stories. We aim to be as accurate as possible, whilst relying on peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s honesty and their re-collection of events, including correct dates and times, therefore, some information may be inaccurate.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

B Active for life Personal Fitness Trainer bactivept@gmail.com 1-441-533-4451

Northshore Medical

7 North Shore Road, Devonshire DV01 1-441-293-5476 | www.nmac.bm

Published by: issuu.com www.rasmykkalinnovations.com bdasjmailbox@gmail.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS Editorial............................................................... 1

Horse Jumping................................................... 46 - 51

Bits & Pieces....................................................... 2 - 3

Youth Profile: Kayla Bardgett............................ 52 - 53

Shopping Kart..................................................... 4 - 5

Harness Racing.................................................. 54 - 59

Health & Fitness.................................................. 6 - 7

Youth Profile: Dexter Snaith.............................. 60 - 61

Sports Medicine.................................................. 10 - 11

International Race Weekend............................. 62 - 71

Cover Story: Jessica Lewis............................... 12 - 17

Kart Racing......................................................... 72 - 77

Mountain Bike Racing........................................ 20 - 25

Youth Profile: JorJa Thomas............................. 78 - 79

Youth Profile: Daisy Langley.............................. 27 - 28

Butterfield & Vallis 5K......................................... 80 - 89

Motocross........................................................... 30 - 35

Youth Profile: Charlotte Mullington................... 90 - 91

Youth Profile: Ajahni Foggo............................... 36 - 37

Poster: Cyril Whitter III....................................... 92 - 93

Tennis................................................................... 38 - 43

Poster: Devon Durrant....................................... 99

Youth Profile: Kirstin Saltus............................... 44 - 45

Background Photo: Blake Camara (#78), Justin Franks (#93) and David Brewster (#60) go bumper to bumper down the front straight on April 3, 2011 Photographed by: Ras Mykkal

PLEASE DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T DRINK & DRIVE

BERMUDA

SPORTS

BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN EDUCATION AND CAREER As a young boy growing up in Bermuda, I attended Purvis Primary School and enrolled in The Bermuda Institute for my secondary level education. I would not say that I hated school, but I was never enthusiastic about going. First, I just wanted to play with my friends, recess, lunch time and gym class were my favorite times of the school day. Mathematics, English, Social Studies and History was a waste of my play time, I did not understand why these subjects were of any importance to me. I mean, think about this, Algebra; ‘x’ times ‘y’ equals ‘z’ really!! How stupid I thought.

the expansion chamber (exhaust pipe) based on the bore and stroke of the cylinder, un-beknown to me I was right back in school. For the engine to produce power, the exhaust pipe is designed around the cubic capacity of the bore (diameter of the piston) and the rotation of the stroke. In other words, the diameter of the piston (x), the rotation of the crank or sweep of the stroke (y) makes horsepower (z), the letters represent numbers. The formula for building the power of the 2-stroke engine is algebra!! Now I wanted to go back to school, especially my math class.

I had no interest in that, lost focus, got into mischief and was kicked out of school. My mother told me that if I wanted to eat, I better find a job fast! I like to do things with my hands, I like to draw pictures and fix things like my pedal bike, for me that was easy. I had an inquisitive mind and still do, always thinking how to fix something, modify it, making it work better. I wanted my pedal bike to look like a real motocross bike and I wanted to ride it like Joey Richardson, Burt Ingham, Clayton Raynor and Cal Lynch. School meant nothing to me, motorcycle racing was everything...........until.

I will accept some responsibility for this late wakeup call but in my defense, I was young and without guidance or good counsel, how was I supposed to know the connection between attending and progressing in school and the many career possibilities that exist. Am I the only one or are there thousands of young people in Bermuda who continue to ‘miss’ their calling because the door for the creative mind (athletes, artists, tradesmen) is locked tight? Is the educational system designed only for the academic mind, those who excel at reading, writing and memorizing the textbook? Are the free thinkers, the creatives and the ‘hands-on’ student getting lost in the academic ’soup’ and are being classified as non-performing, lazy and anti-social? Do we need to re-think the educational process and make it more inclusive? Can we bridge the gap between education and the career opportunities for our young people?

I started working at Collectors Hill Esso service station and my mother took my paycheck from me every Friday, but I kept my T.I.P.S. I hustled and saved my tips and bought my first motocross bike, a Honda 250cc Elsinore and so my mother would not know, I stored it at my cousin Bussie’s house. To make a long story short, I could fix and modify my bike without the service manual, and I could ride it just like my local heroes. Every month I would buy my favorite magazine, Motocross Action. I would learn about 5-time world champion, Roger DaCosta, U.S. National Champions Bob Hannah, Johnny O’Mara and Kent Howerton. I would read about the races, the bikes and the behind the scenes stories.

- By Ras Mykkal

Until I came across an article, “How to build a ‘works’ pipe”. I could learn how to hand build an exhaust pipe, which is a high-performance pipe for my dirt bike. Knowing that 2-stroke engines made their power from

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

BITS & PIECES A Brief Look At Sports News

CALVIN STEEDE In 2008, Cal Steede ran in the first Bermuda Triangle Challenge (a series of events that consist of a mile run, a 10K and a marathon over three-day weekend). Cal has not missed an event in the twelve years. He is wellknown for his love for running long distances and this year’s International Race Weekend marks his 121st career marathon. He also continued his unbroken streak of participation in Bermuda Triangle Challenge, an event that he won in 2008. Cal is now 60 years old and runs between four and seven marathons a year. The Boston marathon in 1997 was his first 26-mile event and by in 2012 he had completed 100 marathons. To date, Cal has run the Boston Marathon 17 times and his best time for a marathon is 2 hours and 49 minutes and that was also in the Boston marathon.

ANDREW BASCOME Andrew Bascome, former Bermuda national football coach has officially signed his football team, FC Bascome Bermuda, as a member of the USL League Two. The team is jointly owned by Bascome and local businessman Henrik Schroder and will compete in the Mid Atlantic Division against Evergreen FC, Lehigh Valley United, Ocean City Nor’easters, Philadelphia Lone Stars FC, Reading United AC and West Chester United SC. Andrew is also the team’s head coach and is looking to open doors for Bermuda’s young footballers with a greater opportunity to reach a career in professional football. The USL League Two provides a pathway for players to progress to the professional clubs. The USL league provides players the opportunity to compete at a higher level of competition while maintaining their eligibility. The league also provides growth opportunities for its coaches, executives and communities. The USL regular season takes place during the summer from early May to mid-July with each team playing a 14-match schedule against their respective divisional rivals on a home and away basis.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

DONNA RAYNOR Donna Raynor, the Bermuda National Athletics Association president, has been chosen as a member of the World Athletics Development Commission. She was one of 150 candidates who applied for the position and will be responsible for advising the World Athletics Commission on how to increase participation levels from grass roots programs to elite athletes’ status, monitoring and evaluating programs as well as the promotion and protection of the values of athletics.

FREDRICK -SKIPPER- INGHAM Arguably Bermuda’s best-known martial artist, Frederick “Skipper” Ingham has an impressive career that spans decades. The winner of numerous international titles, he was inducted into the Bermuda Sports Hall of Fame in 2007 and is the first and only martial artist from Bermuda to be awarded the Queen’s Certificate. “Skipper Ingham”, opened the island’s first martial arts school in Khyber Pass, Warwick in the 70s, and is widely credited for being an instrumental force in the growth of martial arts in Bermuda’s history. Born February 18, 1930, he moved to New York in 1947, and through the 50s and 60s served in US Army, as a Merchant seaman and as a policeman. In 1970 he returned to Bermuda, and founded the Bermuda Karate Institute, becoming instrumental in promoting martial arts in Bermuda. In addition to being featured on the cover of ‘Black Belt’ magazine, Mr. Ingham has been featured in martial arts magazines in Italy, Malaysia and India, and featured in Ron Van Clief’s book “The Black Heroes of the Martial Arts” and cover article in “Traditional Karate” magazine. He holds a tenth-degree black belt in the USA Doju and a seventh degree in Okinawan doju. Showing himself to be one of Bermuda’s most enduring athletes. Bermuda’s best-known martial artist, Frederick “Skipper” Ingham celebrated his 90th birthday on February 18th. Skipper opened the island’s first martial arts school in Bermuda in the 1970’s. Skipper holds a tenth-degree black belt in the USA Doju and a seventh degree in Okinawan doju.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

SHOPPING KART Products to fuel your passion

CABERG RIVIERA V3 HELMETS ($179.00) Quick release Double Anti-scratch visor system (clear & smoke) also has removable & washable cheek pads. Available at the Scooter Mart, 2 Lovers Lane, Paget, Bermuda, PG 05, E-mail Nick at: nick@scootermart.bm or visit our website: www.scootermart.bm 1-(441) 232-2453 or 1-(441) 705-6563

NORTH SHORE PHARMACY NUUN When we exert ourselves through exercise and training, we lose body fluid and salts through sweat. During the heat of the summer a higher sweat rate increases the risk of dehydration. A loss of 2% of body weight through perspiration can impair performance. The best way to stay hydrated is to drink regularly during activities and eat a diet high in fruits and vegetables. During longer activities, a rehydration tablet can be added to a water bottle to help replenish the lost salts and fluid. Nuun Sports Drink Tablet, is an electrolyte tablet that should be mixed with water to hydrate the body during sporting activities available at Northshore Pharmacy Ltd, 7 North Shore Road, Devonshire. Ph 441 2963240

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

KLIP XTREME® KWS-920 PARTY LOUDSPEAKER WITH WIRELESS TECHNOLOGY Main features • High-performance sound system for live and playback audio • 6000W • BASS BOOSTER function • High-gloss front panel with digital LED display • Media panel with oversized, illuminated controls • Karaoke function, with microphone/guitar jack input plus one microphone-only jack • Streams music wirelessly with any Bluetooth®-enabled device • LED illumination effects with 6 different lighting schemes, plus LED off feature • 12-inch woofer, two 5-inch and two 2-inch driver units • Includes two premium wireless microphones and a remote control • Built-in heavy-duty retractable handle and wheels Red Laser 12 Bakery Lane, Pembroke HM 07, (Phone) 296-6400 or 296-6477

BEEKEEPER’S NATURALS Beekeeper’s Naturals offers natural solutions to help the immune system, gut and brain health with organic, bee-powered products designed to “revamp your medicine cabinet,” like Propolis Throat Spay and BLXR. Honey is based in floral nectar and propolis is plant and tree resin, has more than 300 beneficial compounds and immensely powerful gem-killing capabilities. A full line of Beekeeper’s Naturals products is available exclusively at both Lindo’s Family Food stores at the pharmacy counter. It can also be delivered to you by on-line ordering with info@dropit.bm or by calling 732-7474. Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Health & Fitness I hate exercising...but I want to get in shape! Help! This is a common statement among many of us. You know who you are. You’ve tried going to the gym, or even hired a personal trainer, hoping that the added expense and accountability would bring about the motivation you need to ensure you would become the regular gym buff you’ve imagined yourself to be. But that didn’t work. Every time you begin a new workout program to get in shape, something gets in the way of your newfound goals. Somewhere inside you know what the real problem is...you hate working out. It’s time consuming, hard, makes you sweaty and uncomfortable. You hate how your workout clothes look on you, and there’s so much more that can be done with that time other than working out. But how do other people manage? What is their secret? How do they stay motivated day after day, and

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

not to mention month after month and year after year? Are they from another planet? Well, not many are born loving exercise or going to the gym. But what separates people who enjoy working out from those who don’t is simply the feeling of being fit/healthy/active. Working out when you aren’t in shape can be painful and grueling. The good news is that you can get in shape and enjoy exercising where it is not or no longer mentally painful. Once you start exercising regularly, it will actually start to feel good. But the only way for that to happen is to START. When I started my fitness journey after having two children, I started walking. Once that became easy I started jogging half of my walking distance. Since then I’ve completed numerous 5k’s, 10k’s, 2 half marathons and other fitness competitions Once you start your exercise program, your first goal should be to get to a fitness level where you no longer hate exercising. In order for that to be achieved you must strive for consistency.

The key to consistency is to make your workout fun, easy and convenient. Here are a few tips to get you STARTed. 1. Consistency is key Don’t force yourself to do anything too challenging or unpleasant. Don’t start with running if you hate running. Just make sure you stick with whatever routine you choose. 2. Commitment Commit to sticking with your plan. If you’ve become too ambitious with your new routine, change it so that it becomes more manageable. 3. Plan Planning your workout is crucial. Benjamin Franklin once said, “If you fail to prepare, be prepared to fail.” When it comes to your workout be sure to plan your clothes, food, childcare etc. On most Sunday’s I prepare my family’s meals until at least Wednesday, which allows me to manage my workout time without having to wonder what we are going to eat. 4. Begin Slowly Start with a walk, if you don’t run. Do partial push-ups instead of full ones. Don’t expect to be a superhero overnight. For now, keep it simple until you are ready to push it harder.

7. Music can motivate I cannot run without music and refuse to because I love listening to the beats while running or working out. It helps me run faster and makes me feel more motivated. So try downloading your favorite songs for your playlist and watch how it eases your workout. 8. Something new/Fashion & Comfort Rocks Workout Swag Get some comfortable fresh workout clothes and get rid of those baggy tees and old shorts. When we feel good about what we are wearing we are more positive in general, and this can do wonders for your workout experience. 9. Rewards Once you have reached your first goal, reward yourself. Doing something consistently is a major accomplishment. Grab yourself a non-food related reward for a job well done. Remember try not to torture yourself at the gym or fitness class by picking up the heaviest weights or overdoing it because it might discourage you from returning. When you are in shape you will be able to push a little harder. But for now, just make sure you do something regularly without making excuses.

5. Fun first Not all exercise happens in a gym setting. Try rock climbing, circuit classes that are outdoors, basketball, netball, tennis or whatever activity that you consider fun and exciting. Start with the exciting and inviting activities first, then the sky is the limit! 6. Find a buddy Working out with a friend can be a great motivator and can add some friendly competition. It is also a great way to be accountable and make the workout fun. Be sure you still do your workout even if your friend cancels.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

SPORTS MEDICINE

NORTHSHORE MEDICAL WITH Dr.

Jeffery Macleod

Tendinitis vs Tendinopathies – don’t neglect your Tendons Dr Jeff MacLeod MFSEM PGDip (SEM) Sports Medicine Doctor

Bermuda Rehabilitation and Sports Center at Northshore Medical Bones are the levers that enable us to transmit force, either on objects around us or on the mass of our own bodies. They are immensely resilient; for weight they are several times stronger than either steel or concrete.i Muscles, on the other hand, are the dynamic tissue that generates the force that allows us to move the levers; muscle is flexible and reactive, wherein lies its resistance to injury. Tendons are the fibrous structures that connect the two; a tough, sinewy tissue that does not have the resistant strength of bone, nor the flexibility and dynamic reactivity of muscle, yet must play its part in transmitting the incredible forces that the body must absorb during exercise. And those forces are considerable; for example, it is estimated that the Achilles tendon must absorb up to 12.5 times the weight of the body during running – as much as a metric tonne.ii It is, therefore, unsurprising that tendons often manifest as the weak point in the kinetic chain and form a large percentage of the conditions that present for treatment in sports and exercise medicine. Tendons, which demonstrate an extremely sophisticated structure of a number of multiple different classes of collagen fibres, have a limited ability to stretch, exhibiting partial tears when fibres are stretched beyond 4%, and complete tears beyond 8%.iii iv Common sites of tendinous injury include the Achilles, hamstring and rotator cuff tendons. However, it is a lesser known fact that tennis and golfer’s elbow injuries – lateral and medial

epicondylitis respectively – are also tendinous injuries. Similarly, a lot of patients that present with generalised knee, shoulder or ankle pain, are actually suffering from tendinous injuries. Commonly, these injuries can last months and, in many cases, years, and can prove incredibly resistant to treatment. Acute tendon injuries, either ruptures or tears, result in redness, swelling, heat and tenderness and pain. We refer to these as a tendinitis. These are fairly simple to identify and usually respond to one of the oldest treatment regimes in existence – rest, ice, compression and elevation, captured under the anacronym RICE. Improved methods of compression and cooling – such as compressive, cryotherapy cuffs – are now used and anti-inflammatory medication – either steroidal or non-steroidal – usually augment treatment. The symptoms of a tendonitis usually settle within a few weeks, however the underlying damage may never resolve. The other type of tendon injury we see is the chronic, painful tendon which occurs as the tendon degenerates. This is a tendinopathy. The main symptoms the sufferer will notice is pain and tenderness; they are not usually overly swollen or hot. At a microscopic level, significant changes to the normal structure of tendons are seen and these are thought to be due to mechanical overuse, abnormal blood vessel infiltration, and age. Even without a tear or rupture, repetitive loading of a tendon within normal levels of tolerance can, over time, lead to degeneration of the tendon which can cause debilitating pain and an increased risk of tendon rupture. Tendinopathies are difficult to treat and, as in all difficult conditions, there are a number of approaches, none of which is guaranteed. An eccentric loading program under the supervision of a physiotherapist is the gold standard; this involves repeatedly placing the tendon under tension during the lengthening phase and, if successful, takes weeks to months to resolve. Other therapies include a range of injections, such as protein-rich plasma (PRP), which involves injecting concentrated growth factors derived from the patient’s own blood; prolotherapy, the injection of an abrasive agent to reinitiate inflammation and natural healing; ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy in which the aberrant blood vessels are destroyed; and cortisone injections, which can further weaken the tendon and are usually not recommended. Low level laser therapy has been in use since the 1950s, but has recently become more widely used due to an increasing body of evidence. Shockwave therapy – a non-pharmacological mechanical treatment – is also a promising new development in the area and, in some cases, glycerol trinitrate patches, usually used for angina, can also be used with some success. The choice or combination of therapies is complicated, however, and best made by consulting with a clinician specialising in musculoskeletal injuries. The old adage still applies, however, that prevention is better than a cure: • Pain is a bad sign – do not ignore it. Aching muscles are expected, but a pattern of pain around joints that is worse in the mornings, after rest or during exercise – this suggests tendon strain. •

Poor technique can lead to tendon injury, be it in the gym, running or any sporting activity. If certain activities are causing pain, seek advice on your technique – it might need improving.

•

Warm up! Tendons do not like rapid change in activity. They need the time to warm and loosen up before being stressed. Light, repetitive activity, the same or similar to what you are about to do, will help prepare your tendons for optimal performance.

•

Stretch. Tendons shorten and stiffen with rest, and stiff tendons tear, so regular stretching will keep them supple and ready to cope with the demands of exercise.

•

Incrementally change intensity and duration of training – do not ask your tendons to do something they are not accustomed to doing or not been built up to. Pay particular care after breaks in activity, such as after holiday or a Christmas break.

Ensure your rest periods between training are long enough for tissue recovery. If you are still overly stiff and sore after your last training session, you are probably not ready for your next one. If in doubt, or if your body is giving you warning signs, don’t risk injury – seek expert advice. 11

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

By Don Burgess & Ras Mykkal

Jessica Lewis, Bermudaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International wheelchair sprinter won two gold and a silver medals in the Parapan American Games in Lima, Peru in the summer of 2019. The Bermuda Sports Journal sat down with Jessica and her mother to talk about her journey.

Photograph: Jessica won gold in the T53 100 and set a new personal best time, besting her previous time of 17.67 with a 17.36. She also won gold in the 400 metres event and silver in the 800 metres.

Jessica at the 2005 Partner Re 5K

Ever since she was a baby, Jessica Lewis has exhibited a can-do attitude. Combined with a bit of tough love from her mom and former coach Ken Thom, she has become one of the world’s best wheelchair racers. And now, she is on the cusp of doing something no Bermudian has ever done – win a Paralympic medal. Lewis has wheeled her way into the conversation of being the GOAT – the greatest of all-time – female athlete in our island’s history. But when Jessica was delivered on April 3, 1993, at four weeks early and at only 3.5 pounds, no one would have predicted this future for the superstar. Her mom Lori Lewis said, “It was only when she was born that we released that she had a problem. When Jessica was two months old, we went to Boston Children’s Hospital. They did an MRI on her, and they saw something under her spine.” When the doctors went in to look, they found a bone spur that had gone through it. That caused Jessica’s rib cage not to develop correctly and took away her ability to walk. And that is where her can-do attitude began. “She just figured out 14

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

how to do things. Jessica was always incredibly determined,” Lori said. “Her bottle was propped up with some towels, and the bottle slipped. I remember her, this little, tiny thing, trying to fix the bottle so she could have some more milk. If she wanted something done, she had to figure it out.” Lori said Jessica was a little seal as she dragged herself back end around, but this brought about Jessica starting to develop her arms. Jessica recounts, “When I fell out of my chair, instead of my mom picking me up and putting back me in my chair, she let me figure it out myself. I learned to be an independent person. “My family let me try to do things for myself. They let me fail so I could learn.” Jessica started at Woodrose Nursery when she was three years old and did most of her schooling at BHS before finishing off at Saltus. “I love academics, I was never at the top of the class,” Jessica said. “I love to learn, but sports came into my life and sort of took over.” It was while at BHS she started going to WindReach Recreational Village. “I could see other kids like me. I saw I could still live an incredible life even with a disability.” She learned how to rock climb and later did basketball at BHS. In 2006, WindReach brought to Bermuda Ken Thom and a few disabled athletes, include his son Curtis, who was a wheelchair competitor. When Jessica saw the racing chair for the first time, she thought, “That’s pretty awesome. I remember getting into one of Curtis’s old racing chairs, it so was massive on me. I remember going around and thinking, ‘Oh gosh, this is a lot of hard work,’ but I absolutely love it. It was so cool to be in a fastpaced sport like this. I saw Curtis and how strong and powerful he was in himself, and I saw him and said I wanted to do this; I can do this.” The next step of the transformation of Jessica Lewis was being sent to the Beijing Paralympics in 2008. “That was a huge eye-opener,” Jessica said. “Seeing the different people and the different challenges they face and how they got to the main stage of sport. Seeing the heart that went into these athletes and the hard work to get there. That showed me, this is possible, and I wanted to be down on that track racing and not in the stands at the next Paralympic Games. That gave me that little extra push that I needed.”

Ready to roll, Jessica puts on her race face

Gerry Swan coached Jessica in Bermuda in 2010 when she finally got her own racing chair. Competing in her first race in Tampa, Florida, Jessica thought, “This is cool! I can’t wait until I can go faster.” When she went away to Brock University in Canada to study therapy recreation in 2012, Ken began coaching her in person, and Jessica started working with other wheelchair athletes. Jessica said Ken “was such an incredible person. I’ve never met anybody like him. He had such a positive way about his coaching. He just wanted to help anybody anywhere succeed no matter where you were from or what your background was, he wanted to be there to help you succeed. He also set goals that he wanted to meet each year. He was always very good about being realistic about the goals.”

Jessica with here parents. Mark & Lorri Lewis

Lori chimed in, “There was never anything negative from his mouth. He would say, ‘This is what I liked about that race, and this is what we need to work on.’”

Jessica trains 5 to 6 days a week at the National Sports Center and two days a week in the gym. Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

“I know the competition is fierce, and I’m going to do everything I can to make one of those three medal spots. It is my greatest honour to represent Bermuda, and it would be the world to me to be able to bring a medal home.” She added: “It would show that even if you have limitations, you can still work hard to overcome them to achieve your goals.” If that were all to be said about Jessica and her amazing sports ability, we would be missing the whole picture as she continues to lift up others. “Growing up, I always hated having a disability,” she said. “I was always questioning ‘Why did this happen to me?’ It was really sports that pulled me out of that and showed me capable of being a strong person. It exposed me to people who were facing the same things as I was. It really helped me get over that.” Jessica works in a facility where she helps others with disabilities to see their potential, their possibilities.

Curtis took over coaching Jessica after his father’s un-timely death in 2017.

Jessica made history by becoming Bermuda’s first wheelchair athlete to compete at the Paralympics in London in 2012. She finished last in every race, but as determination has always been her strong suit, she set her heart on doing better in 2016 in Brazil.

“Now it’s my turn to spread the message that you are capable of doing more than you think you can. I feel my purpose is in life to spread the message that you are amazing and can do amazing things in your life.” Even if Jessica doesn’t reach the podium or win gold in Tokyo, she’s already won gold in life by helping uplift others to live their best lives.

On the way there, she raced her way to a bronze at the 2015 World Championships. Jessica might have felt disappointed finishing sixth at the 2016 Paralympics, but she then burst her way into the conversation as one of the world’s best by winning two gold medals and a silver at the 2019 Parapan Games in Toronto. And as an encore, she finished fourth at the World Championship in Dubai later that year. “I will admit it took me a few days to be proud of it, though because coming fourth is always tough being just off the podium,” Jessica said. “But that placement also secured me a spot for the Tokyo Paralympic Games this year, so that was exciting and a relief to know I have my spot already going into the 2020 season. It certainly has boosted my confidence that I can be a medal contender going into my third Paralympic Games. Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Zina Jones was all smiles as she won the Female Open 60 class at Hog Bay in the mud.

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Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

a. Alexander Miller is the master of the mud; he won the Admiralty House event in the rain and again at Hog Bay Park. b. Michael Terceira (#135) was fourth in the Male Open 30 class at Admiralty House and Hog Bay. c. Caroline Wright was third at Hog Bay and second at Lagoon Park. d. Tyler Coleman was 2nd at Hog Bay, 3rd at Lagoon Park and first at Southlands in the 12 & under class. e. Moses Johnson (#23) third in the Male Open 60 class at Admiralty House and fourth at Hog Bay

e Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

f. Andrew Charlesworth found some pedal power to pass and wheelie away from Hans Hirschi in the rain at Admiralty House. g. In the 13 to 15 class, Enshe Nico Davis was 3rd at Admiralty House, but set the pace early and finished ahead of Gordon Smith with Rory Fleming taking first place at Hog Bay. h. Sherman Darrell and Wendell Burrows -The battle for bragging right rages on every race day between â&#x20AC;&#x153;the Shermanator and the Beaverâ&#x20AC;?.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

JUNIOR SPORTS PROFILE

Daisy Langley MOUNTAIN BIKE Full name: Daisy Langley

Favourite food: Pasta

Birth year: 2011

Things you like: Sports

School: Somersfield Academy

Things you dislike: Broccoli

Sports active in: Cycling, Football, S wimming and Triathlons

Favourite TV show: Youtube

Favorite sport to watch: Football Who is/are your role model: Flora Duffy International hero: Alex Morgan, Paul Po and Magan Rapince Greatest accomplishment: Mountain bike racing 2nd place (2019)

Favourite movie: Minions 3 Personal ambitions: To play professional football Dead or alive, who would you most like to meet: Alex Morgan Best place visited: Italy and Disney Place you would most like to visit: Disney and Colorado

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Asa Trew-Smith was 15th in the Lagoon Park 12 & under class.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

MOTOCROSS

Southside Raceway, St. Davidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s January 1, 2020

Aiden Simmons rode his Husqvarna 65cc to victory with three first place finishes. Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

a a. Former multi-national motocross champion, Justin Belboda and Kevin Lightbourn enjoyed watching a new generation of riders over the New Year’s Day event. Justin won the 125cc Novice championship in ’89 ‘90 season, and two 125 expect championships (’90 - ‘91 and ’91 - ‘92). Kevin raced one season and finished second to Shawn Perot in the 125-novice class in 1985-‘86 and retired from racing. b. Mazai Tucker was 6th overall in the pee wee 50cc class. c. Grae Edness won all three of his races in the 50cc class and was second overall in the 65cc class with a 3, 2, 2, finishes.

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c Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

a a ,b. Over the Christmas Holiday, the Bermuda Motocross Club invited North Carolina resident, Nathan Augustin to the Island. It was his first trip to Bermuda, but he had no problem finding the fastest way around the track. c. Veteran motocrosser, Bobby Lambe swept all three wins in the over 30 class on his Honda 450F. d. Zico Majors had a 3,3,2 for second overall in the 450 Expert class on board his Kawasaki 450F.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

JUNIOR SPORTS PROFILE

Ajahni Foggo MOTOCROSS Full Name: Ajahni Foggo Birth Year: 2012 School: Francis Patton Primary Sports Active in: Motocross Favorite sport to watch: Motocross Who is/are your role model: My Daddy LJ DeGraff Biggest influence on career: My Daddy Greatest Accomplishment: 3rd overall in my first season of racing motocross Favorite food: Pizza

Things you like: Playing with my friends and riding my motocross bike Things you dislike: lettuce Favorite TV show: Beyblades Boys Favorite movie: Ninjargo Personal ambitions: To pilot a ferryboat Dead or alive, who would you most like to meet: A pilot Best place visited: Florida Place you would most like to visit: England

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Gavin Manders has ruled Bermudaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tennis courts for the better part of the pass eleven years. It took a bolt of bronchitis and his protĂŠgĂŠ to topple him. All eyes will be watching to see if a healthy Manders will be back on top.

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Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

a. Morgan Lightbourne lose to Hugh Seymour in the Open consolation 2-6, 6-2, 11-9. b. Scott Redmond was defeated by Gavin Manders 2-6, 6-4, 6-2 in the first round. c. Hugh Seymour won the Open â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bâ&#x20AC;? finals over Andrew Paynter 6-0, 6-2.

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Victoria Stephens defeated Jazhuena Bradshaw-Douglas 6-2, 6-3.

Kirsten Saltus defeated Victoria Stephens 4-6, 6-0, 10-4 to claim the Open â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bâ&#x20AC;? consolation. 42

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

At age 18, Tariq Simons has reached another milestone defeating his coach and mentor Gavin Manders 6-4, 4-6, 6-4 to earn the number one ranking in Bermudaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tennis

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

JUNIOR SPORTS PROFILE

Kirstin Saltus TENNIS

Full Name: Kirstin Saltus

Things you like: Anything adventurous, positive vibes

Birth Year: 1994

Things you dislike: People telling me what to do

School: Warwick Academy & Catawba College

Favorite TV show: Revenge

Sports Active in: Womanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tennis Favorite sport to watch Any live Sports, I am not a big TV person International hero: I never have one Biggest influence on career: My mother, Debbie Saltus and my grandmother Pat Lake Greatest Accomplishment: To live this life with no regrets Favorite food: Mash potatoes and anything vegan

Favorite movie: Matilda Favorite singer/s: Ciara and Jhene Favorite song: I love all music Personal ambitions: To obtain my college degrees Best place visited: Costa Rica Place you would most like to visit: Spain, New Zealand and Cook Island

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Keisha Smith and Da Vinci had to settle for 5th place in the 1.00m class 6.

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Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

a. Jenna Ferreira and “Piece of the Puzzle” won the 0.85m class 3. b. Kelsey Amos and Forza won the 0.85m class 4. c. Tyler James and Happy Feet could not out jump Jenna Ferreira and had to settle for second in the 0.85m class 3. d. Dale Rochester and “Dukes of Hazards placed 5th in the 0.95 class 5.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

a. Hailey Barnett and Mind Over Matter placed third in the 0.95m class 5. b. Coach/competitor, Abby Bardgett (Cruise Control) was 4th in the .85m class 4. c. Philip Correia and Junior Cardento could do no better than second in the 1.20m class 6 behind Cody Rego and Rambo.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

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JUNIOR SPORTS PROFILE

Kayla Bardgett HORSE JUMPING

Full Name: Kayla Bardgett

Favorite Singer: Billie Elish

Birth Year: 2005

Favorite Song: Underdog by Alicia Keys

Favorite sport to watch: Running

Personal/Professional Goal: To become an International Rider (Horse Jumping)

Who is your role model? My Mom & Dad - Abby & Eddie Bardgett_ International Hero: McLain Ward Biggest Influence on you career: Phillip Correira Favorite Food: Ceasar Salad Things You Like: Horses Things you Dislike: Edername (Chinese beans) Favorite TV Show: Spinning Out Favorite Movie The Maze Runner Series & Avengers End Game

Alive or Dead, who would you most like to meet: McLain Ward Best place visited: Bahamas Place you would most like to visit: Paris

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Kayla Cardwell / War Machine leads Kiwon Waldron / Special Gold through turn one.

Veteran pony drivers Arthur Hurst and David Lopes share a moment at the Vesey Street racetrack.

Dylan DeSilva and Simsfield Hardtimes rolls through one for second place behind Candyce Martins (Google Me) but ahead of Kayla Caldwell (War Machine) in heat race 20. 56

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Christian Truran and Gold-N-Glory were third in heat race one with a time of 103/2

Darico Clarke (Special Gold) leads Kiwon Waldron (Pocket de Gold) and Christian Truran (Gold-N-Glory) through turn two in heat race one. Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Andrea Westerfield (Custard the Dragon) chases Kiwon Waldron (ThisBabyRocks) through turn two in race two.

Dylan DeSilva and Simsfield Hardtimes rolls through one.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Darico Clarke (Special Tux) hugs the rail to hold off Nisuje Landy (Koolthefire) and Tahzii Flood (Rock On) to win heat race 12.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

JUNIOR SPORTS PROFILE

Dexter Snaith TENNIS Full Name: Dexter Snaith

Things you Dislike: Being bored

Birth Year: 2010

Favorite TV Show: Simpsons

School: West Pembroke

Favorite Movie: Star Wars

Faviorte Other Sport Football

Favorite Singer: Drake

Childhood Hero: James Harden

Favorite Song: Life is good (Drake/ Future)

International Hero: Roger Federer (Tennis)

Personal/Professional Goal: To be a CEO of a company

Biggest Influence on you career My Dad

Alive or Dead, who would you most like to meet: Barak Obama

Biggest disappointment Losing matches Greatest Accomplishment: Winning my first tournament Favorite Food: Pizza Things You Like: Sports

Best place visited: Mexico Place you would most like to visit: Italy

American Rachel Werderits (#2385) was 71st across the 10K finish line in 44 minutes 49 sec. 63

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

a. Brian Morseman from Bath, New York, won the PwC Bermuda marathon in 2hr 28min 52sec. He also competed in The Royal Gazette Bermuda Triangle Challenge, finishing fourth in the mile and eighth in the BF&M 10K on Saturday. b. American Patrick Casey passed Abdulmenan Kasim Gelatu of Ethiopia at the finish line to win the BF&M 10K race on Saturday. Casey also won the Butterfield Elite Mile on Friday night. c. Sean Trott placed second in his first ever marathon in 2:43.04, close to 14 minutes behind Brian Morseman and 20 minutes ahead of Canadian Vincent Dussault.

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Two-time Olympian and European Champion Eilish McColgan (#213) claimed the BF&M 10K womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s title as she ran the distance in 33min 28sec, crossing the finish ninth overall.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Spencer Butterfield led the local menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s field across the line and was sixth overall with a personal best time of 1:17:16.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Abdulmenan Kasim Gelatu (#2426), Abu Kebede Diriba (#2425) and Temesgen Habtemariam Bekele (#2001) made it a 1-2-3 sweep of Ethiopians men in the PwC half-Marathon podium.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Magnus Ringsted (#448), Sean Ringsted (#364) and Jenene Douglas (#263) pose for a selfie at the conclusion of the 10K.

Canadian Nathaniel Diego (#1823) finished the 10K run in 58:35 for 329th place. A cool Bermuda beverage and a quick selfie to let friends at home see what they are missing. Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

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Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

a. New Yorker Megan Gubbins, was the first female finisher in the marathon and fifth overall in a time of 3:10:52. Early in the race she was accompanied by a group of men but ran the last six miles on her own. She was also a Triangle Challenge competitor. b. Mary, Tom and daughter Ruth-Ann McManus have been coming to Bermuda from Boston to enjoy International Race Week since 2016. Mary suffers from Paralytic Polio since she was a child and started running at the age of 53 to help fight the disease. c. Gacheri Dyck and Clemus Ocallaghan (both from Canada) had fun and enjoy Bermudaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s International weekend.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

The L206 is an interesting class, all the Karts are identical 4-strokes. The engines are factory sealed and must be factory serviced to ensure that no one has an unfair advantage. This is a class of the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skills. Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Jayden Brimmer finish fifth in all three of his races.

Jason North is the current president of the Bermuda Karting Club, a multi- national champion and still an active competitor. 74

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Scott Barnes (#1) won the first race in the L206 Seniors class, but Jason North (#91) forced his way pass in race two and three to scoop the overall win with a 2,1,1, tally.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Richard Walker (#79) and Bilal Binns (#16) battled all day in the TAG Seniors class with Richard edging Binns 3,2,2 to 2,3,3.

(#14) Rian Lindo (#91) Jason North and Stephen Corrado (#18) keep each other in sight with no breathing space.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Jauza James (#7) ran the Butterfield & Vallis 5K in the morning finished 12th, then suited up for Kart racing and won all three of his races.

(#420) Brandon Franks ended the day with all 9th place finishes in the L206 Senior class.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

JUNIOR SPORTS PROFILE

Jorja Thomas KARTING Full Name: Jorja Thomas

Favorite TV Show: Euphoria - HBO

Birth Year: 2005

Favorite Movie: Need For Speed

Favorite other sport: Basketball

Favorite Singer: XXX Tentacian

Childhood Hero: Lewis Hamilton

Favorite Song: 20/20

International Hero: Hailie Deegan

Personal/Professional Goal: Drive Shifter Kart class and be the first woman to win the championship

Biggest Influence on you career: Mark & David Selley Greatest Accomplishment: Winning the TAG jr. class in Karting Favorite Food: Chicken Things You Like: Sports Things you Dislike: Rude people

Alive or Dead, who would you most like to meet: Hailie Deegan Best place visited: Florida Place you would most like to visit: Italy

Gayle Lindsay was first female and eighth overall in 18:57.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Lamont Marshall won the 2020 Butterfield & Vallis 5K and set a new course record of 15min 9sec breaking Kavin Smithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1996 event record of 15:35.

Karen Smith (third from left) was second woman in 21:02 celebrates with husband Aaron, daughter Lindsey and fellow competitor, Victoria Fiddick.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

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Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

a. The primary school 1K race saw Purvis student, Jace Postlethwaite (#933) emerge from the pack to win in 4:04. b. Isabella Neururer representing Harrington Sound School finished 12th in 4:55 c. Warwick Academy student Sami Luber was third in his group race. d. Seven-time May 24th Derby winner Debbie Butterfield was on hand to help with a new generation of young runners. e. Logan Flood heads for the finish line in 75th place (17:35).

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Melissa Drea enjoys the Butterfield & Vallis race day with her little ones Jens and Romy.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

13-year-old Eoghan Homan of Somersfield Academy lead from start to finish in the middle school race.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

Family affair - Orlyn Williams (father), Lotan Reid-Williams and Kara Reid (mother) head for the finish line together.

King Klos Arorash (#902) and Reid Qutub (#935) sprint to the finish line.

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

JUNIOR SPORTS PROFILE

Charlotte Millington CYCLING

Full Name: Charlotte Kate Millington

Favorite TV Show: Thunderbirds

Birth Year: 2007

Favorite Movie: Men In Black 2

Favorite other sport Triple Jump

Favorite Actor: Will Smith

Childhood hero: Danny Macaskill

Favorite Singer: Alexander Hamilton

International Hero: Peter Sagan

Personal/Professional Goal: To be a professional cyclist

Biggest Influence on you career: Dad (Steve Millington)

Alive or Dead, who would you most like to meet: Peter Sagan

Greatest Accomplishment: Hiking Mount Washington

Best place visited: Wildcat Ski Resort

Favorite Food: Shrimp Tempura Things You Like: Sports and Camping

Place you would most like to visit: Grand Canyon

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

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SPORTS If you have Sports Related Goods or Services Contact us by email, bdasjmailbox@gmail.com, to ask about our advertising rates

Bermuda Sports Journal | 2020

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