Daley makes waves in Portugal with inspiring para sailing victory
Key Points(5)
- Jamaican para sailor Andre Daley demonstrated resilience and adaptability on the international stage, overcoming an unexpected equipment change on the eve of competition to win the Under-25 Hansa 303 race at the World Sailing Inclusion Championships in Portimão, Portugal.
- Daley returned home after competing in the championships, hosted by the International Sailing Federation (ISF), following a training camp in the western Algarve region.
- His latest success builds on his victory at the World Sailing Caribbean Inclusive Competition in Antigua and Barbuda in July.
- Boat switch fails to derail Daley The Jamaican's path to the top of the podium was not without disruption.
- Just one day before the competition, he was switched from the Venture RS boat to the Hansa 303, forcing him to adjust his preparation and familiarize himself with a different vessel at short notice.
Jamaican para sailor Andre Daley demonstrated resilience and adaptability on the international stage, overcoming an unexpected equipment change on the eve of competition to win the Under-25 Hansa 303 race at the World Sailing Inclusion Championships in Portimão, Portugal.
Daley returned home after competing in the championships, hosted by the International Sailing Federation (ISF), following a training camp in the western Algarve region. His latest success builds on his victory at the World Sailing Caribbean Inclusive Competition in Antigua and Barbuda in July.
Boat switch fails to derail Daley
The Jamaican's path to the top of the podium was not without disruption. Just one day before the competition, he was switched from the Venture RS boat to the Hansa 303, forcing him to adjust his preparation and familiarize himself with a different vessel at short notice.
Rather than allow the change to undermine his performance, Daley adapted and delivered a winning effort.
“My experience in Portugal competing in the Under 25 Hansa 303 race was both challenging and rewarding. The day before the competition, I was switched from the Venture RS boat to the Hansa 303, which somewhat disrupted my preparation and left me a bit unsettled. Despite this unexpected change, I remained focused, adapted to the new boat, and pushed through to secure the victory. I felt proud and grateful for the outcome, as it reminded me of the importance of resilience, determination, and believing in myself even when things don’t go as planned,” he said.
Support team shares in achievement
Physiotherapist Shevonese Miller, who accompanied Daley in Portugal as his aide-de-camp, said his response to the unexpected change demonstrated the qualities behind his success.
“Being part of this experience in Portugal was truly rewarding. Although he had to switch unexpectedly from the Venture RS boat to the Hansa 303 just one day before the competition, he remained determined and adapted quickly to the challenge. We are incredibly happy and proud that, despite the circumstances, he won the Under 25 Hansa 303 race. His victory is a testament to his resilience and determination,” she said.
Samuda sees wider significance
For Jamaica Paralympic Association (JPA) President Christopher Samuda, Daley's achievement carries significance beyond the individual triumph, positioning the sailor as an example for others seeking opportunities in para sports.
“Andre has set sail and is sailing and has made the sea his stomping ground as he breaks new ground in para sports and is writing a new chapter for others, who dare to dream, to read and to be inspired and motivated to record their own story of personal triumph and national pride,” Samuda remarked.
The JPA continues to pursue opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate and excel in a wider range of sports at regional and international levels.
Alongside para sailing, the association is making gains in archery, badminton, cycling and fencing as it seeks to broaden Jamaica's presence and possibilities in competitive para sports.
