From Migrant Athlete to Olympic Champion, Putting Dominica on the Map

Thea Lafond-Gadson at Paris Olympics on August 9, 2024 (Credit: Track and Field News)

Thea Lafond-Gadson, a standout triple jumper, made history on August 9, 2024, at the Paris Olympics by breaking the current triple jump record and winning Dominica’s first-ever Olympic gold medal. This momentous achievement was not only a personal victory for Lafond-Gadson but also a triumph for her home country of Dominica.

Lafond-Gadson’s journey to Olympic gold has not been without its challenges. As a migrant athlete in the United States, she often felt she had the “shorter end of the stick” compared to her American counterparts. “I didn’t have the same access to resources, and my parents did not know as much about the athletic world to help me out,” she said. Without an athletic background in track and field, Lafond-Gadson had to figure things out along the way. She often felt out of place, especially in the competitive U.S. sports environment.

However, her American upbringing also played a significant role in her success. “One thing I quickly realized, especially when it came to America, is that the U.S. loves athletics,” Lafond-Gadson said. Being involved in sports helped her integrate into American society, opening doors and breaking down barriers. Training in the U.S. has been crucial for her, as Dominica lacks a proper track and field facility.

Lafond-Gadson credits her parents for instilling confidence in her and the Dominica Olympic Committee for increasing funding, which allowed her to focus on her training without worrying about resources. “That support really helped level the playing field for me,” she said.

In recognition of her Olympic achievement, Dominica recently celebrated Lafond-Gadson with a motorcade around the island, culminating at the Windsor Park Stadium. There, the Prime Minister of Dominica awarded her the country’s highest honor, which will be formally presented during the 2024 Independence celebrations. The award includes a cash prize of US $148,000, appointment as a sports ambassador, 7,459 square feet of land in Warner, Dominica, a diplomatic passport for her and her husband, and plans for a new track and field facility named Thea Lafond-Gadson.

Despite her success on the global stage, Lafond-Gadson remains deeply connected to her cultural roots. “Finding good Caribbean food and reading supportive messages from people in Dominica always makes me feel at home,” she said. These connections have been a source of strength for her, especially when competing internationally.

Her identity as a migrant and professional athlete has evolved significantly over the years. Initially feeling out of place as the only Dominican on large stages, Lafond-Gadson now embraces her role as an unofficial ambassador for her country. “I want people to know about us, to experience our culture, and see the beautiful, lush land of Dominica. I truly believe Dominica is a gem, and I’m just trying to show it off to the world,” she said.

Lafond-Gadson hopes her achievements inspire future athletes from Dominica. Her message to them is clear: “Remember that practice makes permanent, not perfect, and that your habits become who you are. Think big and use all the resources available to you. The world really is your oyster.”

With her historic win and the support of her homeland, Thea Lafond-Gadson’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of sports to unite and inspire.