Two emerging boxing talents from Saint Lucia have been selected for an elite athletic development program in the Caribbean region. Hervé Charlemagne, 17, and Daniel Martin, 18, have secured coveted scholarships to undertake a comprehensive three-month training immersion at the Centre de Ressources, d’Expertise et de Performance Sportive (CREPS) in Guadeloupe, commencing January 11.
The young welterweights have demonstrated exceptional prowess in regional competitions. Charlemagne, hailing from Bexon, achieved historic distinction by capturing the bronze medal at the 2023 Central American and Caribbean School Sports Games in Venezuela—marking Saint Lucia’s inaugural international boxing medal. Meanwhile, Martin, originating from Grande Riviere, Gros Islet, has established himself as a two-time gold medalist at the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States championships, most recently triumphing in 2024 as a novice competitor.
Both athletes share an educational background at St. Mary’s College, with Charlemagne currently representing the institution and Martin advancing to Sir Arthur Lewis Community College on scholarship. Martin brings additional international perspective having previously resided in the United Kingdom, where he attended Patricia D James Secondary School.
The Saint Lucia Boxing Association (SLBA) has characterized this opportunity as a transformative milestone in athletic development. President David Christopher commended the boxers’ dedication, stating: ‘This scholarship recognizes the exceptional commitment and potential demonstrated by these young athletes. Such prestigious opportunities are earned through relentless discipline and performance.’
During their immersion, the boxers will access world-class training facilities, advanced coaching methodologies, sports science support systems, and competitive sparring with elite partners. The comprehensive program includes preparatory administrative processing, medical evaluations, and orientation sessions to ensure optimal adaptation to the CREPS training environment.
Christopher emphasized the broader implications for national sports development: ‘The CREPS program provides exposure to elite training environments that are instrumental for athlete advancement. The knowledge and experience gained will not only elevate individual careers but also enhance the competitive landscape of boxing throughout Saint Lucia.’
The CREPS Guadeloupe Immersion Programme maintains international recognition for cultivating elite competitors across multiple sporting disciplines, representing a significant investment in Caribbean athletic talent development.