KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a breakthrough achievement for Jamaican sport, four trailblazing women fencers have qualified for the 2026 Centenary Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games, set to be held in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
Representing a nation not traditionally associated with fencing, Caitlin Chang, Dr. Claudine Williams, Dr. Sharmella Martin, and Mya Spears delivered performances marked by resilience, passion, and unity at the 2025 Central American and Caribbean Fencing Championships in Guatemala City, Guatemala.
For the first time, Jamaica will field competitors in both the female individual and team épée events, along with representation in the female sabre category — signaling not only history but a rising era for the sport on the island.
Champions return, a teenager emerges, and a dream lives on
Chang and Williams, veterans of the historic Barranquilla 2018 CAC Games fencing team, once again led the charge — this time alongside newcomer Dr. Sharmella Martin. Their successful qualification was a blend of grit, experience, and team synergy.
Meanwhile, 17-year-old Mya Spears stunned the sabre field with a fearless and inspiring display that secured her a ticket to Santo Domingo.
Chang, who claimed silver at Barranquilla, summed up the team’s emotion best:
“I’m so proud to have been part of this team. I can’t quite put into words exactly how it feels, but it’s just incredible. The team came together as one. I just feel very overwhelmed — in a good way — but it happened. And it’s just this: we’re continuing to make history, and I’m just so proud of the team. All of us, the way we all showed up together as one, and that, to me, is how it feels.”
A comeback for the ages: Williams defies the odds
One of the most riveting moments of the qualifying event came during a 45-44 come-from-behind victory against Costa Rica, a match that will long be remembered in regional fencing circles. The comeback was orchestrated by Chang, but it was deeply personal for Dr. Claudine Williams, who returned to competition after seven years away, during which she became a mother and had only three weeks of fencing preparation.
“Caitlin — her fire, her focus, her resilience — they carried us,” Williams reflected. “Taking us from a 10-point deficit in the last 3 minutes against Costa Rica to a 45–44 win? Only she could have pulled that off. And for me, stepping back on the strip reminded me who I am. That no matter how long it’s been or how much life has thrown at me, the fight and the fire are still there.”
JOA applauds fencers, champions equality in sport
President of the Jamaica Olympic Association (JOA) and Second Vice President of Centro Caribe Sports (CCS), which governs the Games, was unequivocal in his praise for the team and the broader significance of their qualification.
“JOA’s ‘sport for all and all for sport’ policy has been embraced by our indomitable fencers, led by President of the Jamaica Fencing Federation (JFF) James McBean,” he said. “He continues to inspire his charges with Olympic zeal and resilience. For us, no sport has ever been small, but all occupy an equal space on a large stage, on our progressive agenda.”
Echoing that sentiment, JOA Secretary General and CEO Ryan Foster underscored the developmental strides being made.
“Isn’t this sport in progress? Isn’t this sport development in truth and fact — giving our youth enabling opportunities to pursue excellence, re-defining history, and demonstrating Jamaica’s prowess in sport?”
History beyond the podium: Jamaica debuts men’s teams
Even though the men’s épée and sabre squads did not qualify, their participation marked another first for Jamaican fencing. Competing against vastly more experienced opponents, the men delivered spirited, commendable performances, demonstrating that Jamaica’s fencing program is on a solid path of growth.
President McBean summarized the ethos behind their efforts with a rallying cry that captures the heart of Jamaican fencing:
“We fight hard, we rise together, and we lift each other.”
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