Jamaica Hosts GAPS Camp as Countdown to Glasgow 2026 Begins
Kingston, Jamaica – The University of the West Indies (UWI) Faculty of Sport in Kingston, Jamaica, served as the venue for the second Games-based Athlete Preparation and Support (GAPS) camp in the Americas and Caribbean region this week, marking a significant step in the lead-up to the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. The camp’s timing coincided with the momentous ‘One Year to Go’ milestone, as the world prepares for an event that promises to be a landmark in the history of the Commonwealth Games, particularly with its unprecedented focus on Para sports.
A Focus on Inclusion and Opportunity
The GAPS program, a key initiative, is designed to build inclusive sport pathways and foster social change across the Commonwealth. By providing Para athletes and coaches with essential skills and resources, the program aims to empower individuals and create a more equitable sporting landscape. This initiative is particularly critical as the Glasgow 2026 games are slated to feature the largest Para sport program in Commonwealth Games history, underscoring a commitment to inclusivity and expanding opportunities for athletes with disabilities.
Eight dedicated Para athletes and 18 coaches from six Caribbean nations converged at the UWI Faculty of Sport to participate in the intensive training and development program. The participating nations included Barbados, alongside others that are contributing to the burgeoning Para sport community in the Caribbean. This diverse gathering highlights the collaborative spirit of the Commonwealth and the shared goal of promoting Para sport at all levels.
Strategic Significance of the Camp
Christopher Samuda, President of the Jamaica Paralympic Association and the Jamaica Commonwealth Games Association, extended a warm welcome to the athletes and coaches, emphasizing the crucial role of the GAPS program in broadening prospects for Para athletes and coaches within the region. His remarks underscored the camp’s importance in not only preparing athletes for the upcoming Games but also in nurturing long-term growth and sustainability in Para sport.
The GAPS program’s methodology, which emphasizes games-based training and support, provides a unique approach to athlete development. This method goes beyond traditional training regimes by integrating strategic gameplay to enhance skills, build teamwork, and foster a deeper understanding of the sport. The program’s success in Kingston serves as a testament to the commitment of Jamaica and the participating nations to develop Para sport and create a pathway for success on the global stage. The initiatives are intended to equip athletes and coaches with the tools and knowledge needed to excel, while also promoting the values of inclusion, respect, and fair play.
Looking Ahead to Glasgow 2026
The ‘One Year to Go’ milestone for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games represents a pivotal moment in the journey towards the Games. With the GAPS camp in Jamaica serving as an essential preparatory step, the Caribbean athletes are poised to make a significant impact. The focus on Para sports at the Glasgow Games is more than just a sporting event; it is an opportunity to showcase the talent, dedication, and resilience of Para athletes and to inspire communities worldwide. The camp reflects a shared vision of a more inclusive and equitable future for Para sport within the Commonwealth. The next few months are crucial as athletes and coaches continue to refine their skills and strategies, with the aim of representing their respective nations with pride and distinction in Glasgow.