Dominica’s sporting pride continues to shine brightly on the international stage as triple jump star Thea LaFond has been elected to the World Athletics Athletes’ Commission for the 2025–2029 term.
LaFond, who recently secured a historic silver medal at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, received 1,293 votes from her fellow athletes, placing her among six newly elected or re-elected members chosen to represent athletes’ voices within the global governing body of track and field.
This achievement is not only a personal milestone for LaFond, but also a moment of immense pride for Dominica. By earning a seat on the prestigious Athletes’ Commission, she will be a part of key discussions shaping the future of athletics worldwide. Since 2019, members of the Commission have held full voting rights on the World Athletics Council, giving LaFond direct influence on decisions that impact the sport and its athletes.
In addition to LaFond, the other athletes elected this year include Andreas Almgren (Sweden), Lia Apostolovski (Slovenia), Lisanne de Witte (Netherlands), Anna Ryzhykova (Ukraine), and Gia Trevisan (Italy). They join previously elected members such as Dame Valerie Adams of New Zealand and France’s Renaud Lavillenie in forming the 2025–2029 Commission.
For Dominica, LaFond’s election goes beyond representation—it symbolizes the island’s growing presence on the world athletics stage. Already an inspirational figure at home, she now takes on the role of not just a competitor, but also a policymaker and advocate for athletes globally.
Speaking on the record turnout of more than 95% athlete participation in the election, Athletes’ Commission Chair Dame Valerie Adams commended the engagement of athletes worldwide. LaFond’s success in such a competitive field underscores her respect among peers and her growing influence beyond her performances on the track.
As Dominica’s flag continues to wave proudly at international competitions, Thea LaFond’s new role ensures the island’s voice will be heard at the highest levels of global athletics governance.
