Dominica is hosting its first-ever Caribbean Athlete Retreat from October 3 to October 5, 2025, bringing together sports enthusiasts from across the region under the theme “Embracing the Comeback-Mindset of a Champion.” The event, organized by Pelago and supported by regional and international partners, was launched with a keynote address by Dominica’s Olympic gold medalist and Ambassador, Thea Lafond-Gadson.
Delivering the key note address at the opening ceremony on Thursday, Lafond-Gadson emphasized the retreat’s broader purpose beyond athletic development.
“This event was created not just as a unifying incentive in the Caribbean, but as a step forward in giving our region accessibility to elite resource,” she said.
The retreat welcomed participants from Dominica and the United States Virgin Islands (USVI), aiming to foster collaboration, resilience, and personal growth among Caribbean athletes. Lafond-Gadson stressed the significance of regional solidarity, stating, “The Caribbean is only growing stronger, and we only become stronger when we work together.”
She also expressed deep personal connection to the event, noting its alignment with her commitment to sports education and holistic development.
“It is no secret that I prioritize the growth of not only sports education and sports on the island, but also I really try to push the importance of self-growth in whole,” she said.
Lafond-Gadson shared her own journey through the challenges of elite sport, offering encouragement to attendees.
“I know that firsthand, I do. But if this weekend lights a fire of hope, lights a fire of persistence, and even allows you to rest on my shoulder, rest on each other’s shoulders for a little bit while connecting, it has done its job,” she stated.
The retreat ends on Sunday, marking a milestone in Caribbean athletic collaboration and development.
Wow, the Caribbean Athlete Retreat sounds like an incredible opportunity for athletes in the region to come together, share experiences, and grow both physically and mentally.
I find she has guts to speak about Caribbean Athlete Retreat when she’s based in the US and no way for her to train in Dominica. she’s unable to get as many endorsed from sports companies due to the fact that’s she’s running on a Dominica ticket. sooner or later we will see that she will sell her flag for an American flag, mark my word 😉.