Jamaican para athletes set for intensive training at GAPS Camp in Mauritius
Key Points(3)
- "The Commonwealth Sport GAPS Program has created a valuable opportunity for para-badminton in Jamaica, empowering both coaching staff and athletes," Walker remarked.
- “I’m honored to participate in this Commonwealth Sports GAPS training camp,” he said.
- The JPA aims to create a strong presence on the world stage, continuing the legacy of past Paralympic representatives in judo, taekwondo, and track and field.</p>
KINGSTON, Jamaica – As part of its mission to bolster para sports talent, the Jamaica Paralympic Association (JPA), in collaboration with the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) and the University of the West Indies (UWI) Mona Faculty of Sport, has facilitated a unique opportunity for Jamaican athletes to participate in the upcoming CGF GAPS (Gather, Adjust, Prepare, and Sustain) para athletics camp in Mauritius.
Next month, para-badminton athlete and field sports participant Kevin Powell, along with badminton coach Terry Lyeow-Walker, will join para sports stakeholders from across the Commonwealth in Mauritius. This camp is designed not only to provide sports-specific coaching but also to strengthen foundational skills, leadership, and development strategies to inspire athletes and coaches alike.
Terry Lyeow-Walker views this opportunity as a critical step in building a resilient, skilled network within Jamaican para sports. "The Commonwealth Sport GAPS Program has created a valuable opportunity for para-badminton in Jamaica, empowering both coaching staff and athletes," Walker remarked. "This camp is a pioneering experience that promises to deepen our knowledge, build relationships, and set a clear pathway toward the LA 2028 Paralympic Games."
Importance of comprehensive skill-building
Kevin Powell, a dual-skilled athlete in shot put and badminton, also expressed his enthusiasm. “I’m honored to participate in this Commonwealth Sports GAPS training camp,” he said. “With my eyes on LA 2028, I plan to learn as much as possible from the world-class coaches and use this experience as a stepping stone to excel.”
JPA President Christopher Samuda emphasized the importance of comprehensive skill-building within para sports, stating, “The JPA is committed to fostering cross-discipline development for athletes, coaches, and managers alike. Our approach to para sports is global, aiming to expand knowledge and capability at every level.”
As Jamaica’s Paralympic vision broadens, JPA has set its sights on a variety of sports for the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games, including badminton, archery, boccia, goalball, swimming, and fencing. The JPA aims to create a strong presence on the world stage, continuing the legacy of past Paralympic representatives in judo, taekwondo, and track and field.
