For most athletes, winning an international championship comes after years of experience. For Jamaican para sailor Andre Daley, it came during his very first competitive sailing event.

Daley has etched his name into the annals of the country’s sporting history as the Jamaica Paralympic Association’s (JPA) first para sailor, claiming victory at the inaugural World Sailing Caribbean Inclusive Sailing Championship in Antigua and Barbuda.

Competing alongside his coach, Emma Paull, Daley rose above a field of sailors representing Chile, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, and St Kitts and Nevis during the three-day championship. The Jamaican pair dominated the competition, winning seven of the 10 races in the round-robin series to secure the historic title.

For Daley, the triumph was both unexpected and deeply rewarding.

“My experience at the Antigua Sailing Week was great. Even though it was my first time learning to sail, I came first in my event. It was a bit challenging at first, but I adapted quickly and was rewarded for my efforts,” he said.

With the victory marking an extraordinary beginning for him, Daley’s ambitions now stretch far beyond a single championship.

“I hope to improve on my skills, participate in more sailing events in the near future and eventually represent my country, Jamaica, at the Paralympic and Para Pan American Games and World Championships,” he added.

Before discovering sailing, Daley had already built a reputation as an experienced diver. Following a diving accident that left him able with a difference, he embraced a new sporting challenge with the same determination that has defined his athletic journey.

His success has become another milestone in the JPA’s efforts to broaden opportunities for athletes across a wider range of sports.

JPA President Christopher Samuda described Daley as the embodiment of the organisation’s philosophy.

“Andre admirably represents the indomitable spirit of Paralympic Jamaica and embodies our ‘I’m Phenomenal’ philosophy and way of life. Beyond the horizon is the aspiration of our para sportsmen and women in various sports as we deepen and broaden our talent pool and Jamaica’s representation across the spectrum of para sports. He is a fighter and performer,” Samuda said.

Daley pointed out that he is staying the course with his sights firmly set on the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympic Games. However, his next assignment is preparation for the World Championships in Portugal, this October.