Thea nabs first-ever Caribbean Breakthrough Award

Just in time for Independence season, Dominica’s own, daughter of the soil, Thea Lafond-Gadson, received the Caribbean Breakthrough Award 2024 during the inaugural CANOC Sports Awards held on October 19, 2024, in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. This first-ever ceremony aimed to celebrate outstanding athletes, sports leaders, and teams who have achieved significant milestones on the global stage.

The Caribbean Breakthrough Award specifically honors athletes who have secured their initial medals in continental or international multi-sport events. By winning the Olympic Gold in Triple Jump at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Lafond-Gadson not only made history but also became the first athlete to earn an Olympic medal for the Nature Isle. The award bestowed upon the Olympian highlights her remarkable abilities and her influence on sports within the Caribbean. Her recognition with this esteemed accolade reflects her relentless dedication and hard work.

Lafond-Gadson shared the spotlight with Julien Alfred, who is Saint Lucia’s first Olympic Gold medallist, as both were celebrated with Breakthrough Awards. This acknowledgment of their achievements signifies the progress of the Caribbean region in the realm of international sports.

This year has been a milestone year for Dominica as well as Saint Lucia, as their athletes have brought home their nations’ inaugural Olympic Gold medals, elevating their profiles on the world stage. Both Thea Lafond-Gadson and Julien Alfred have established themselves as leading athletes globally and serve as symbols of hope and motivation for those aspiring to represent their countries internationally.

The Dominica Olympic Committee congratulated Lafond-Gadson on her outstanding achievement, affirming that she is truly deserving of this honor. They emphasized that her accomplishments serve as an inspiration for future generations, encouraging them to strive for success.