Jamaica’s sporting icons continue to be recognized for their outstanding contributions to the nation, with former World 100-metre champion Yohan Blake, West Indies and Jamaica cricketer Rovman Powell, and former Reggae Boy Ricardo ‘Bibi’ Gardner named among the recipients of national honours for 2025.
The trio are part of a distinguished group of 114 Jamaicans conferred with National Honours and Awards, effective August 6, 2025, as part of the annual celebration of Jamaica’s independence.
Blake, known globally for his sprinting prowess and philanthropic work, has been appointed a Member of the Order of Distinction in the rank of Commander (CD). The accolade recognizes his contribution to athletics in track and field, as well as his impactful charitable efforts. He is one of 35 individuals to receive the Commander class honour this year.
Gardner and Powell have been appointed Members of the Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer (OD), joining a group of 43 individuals recognized at this level. Gardner, a key figure in Jamaica’s historic qualification for the 1998 FIFA World Cup, will receive his insignia for his contributions to sports, particularly football. Powell, the hard-hitting former West Indies T20 captain, is being honoured for his service to cricket, representing Jamaica and the region on the international stage.
All three sportsmen will receive their insignias during the National Honours and Awards Ceremony on National Heroes Day, October 20, in a celebration that acknowledges their dedication, excellence, and service to Jamaica.
Meanwhile, also among the 35 honorees at the Commander level is Jamaican-American entrepreneur and philanthropist, Dr. Trisha Bailey. Dr. Bailey recently made headlines for her generous support of Jamaica’s National Senior Men’s Basketball Team, visiting their training camp in Boca Raton, Florida, where she made a personal donation towards the team’s ambitious goal of raising US$4 million for a dedicated training facility in Jamaica. She is being recognized for her remarkable contributions to entrepreneurship, philanthropy, and community service.
