Dominica has made history by hosting its first-ever Caribbean Athlete Retreat from October 3 to October 5, 2025. The event, themed ‘Embracing the Comeback-Mindset of a Champion,’ brought together sports enthusiasts from across the Caribbean, including Dominica and the United States Virgin Islands (USVI). Organized by Pelago and supported by regional and international partners, the retreat aimed to foster collaboration, resilience, and personal growth among athletes. The opening ceremony featured a keynote address by Dominica’s Olympic gold medalist and Ambassador, Thea Lafond-Gadson. Lafond-Gadson highlighted the retreat’s broader purpose, emphasizing its role in providing elite resources and promoting regional solidarity. ‘The Caribbean is only growing stronger, and we only become stronger when we work together,’ she stated. Lafond-Gadson also shared her personal journey through the challenges of elite sport, offering encouragement to attendees. ‘If this weekend lights a fire of hope, persistence, and allows you to rest on each other’s shoulders while connecting, it has done its job,’ she said. The retreat concluded on Sunday, marking a significant milestone in Caribbean athletic collaboration and development.