CHARTING HISTORY: Thad Lettsome’s Journey to the Paris 2024 Olympics

On July 26, 2024, the Olympics Games kicked off in Paris with a spectacular display that is certain to become one of the most memorable moments in Olympic history. As thousands of athletes sailed down the River Seine past lively performers on bridges, banks, and rooftops, the ceremony took place outside the confines of the stadium.

With four athletes carrying the flag of the British Virgin Islands, this lavish boat parade was a perfect fit for the British Virgin Islands.  Known as the sailing capital of the world, star athlete Thad Lettsome made history as the first BVI sailor at the Olympics since 1996.

From his early days as a young sailor in the Nanny Cay Sailing program, Thad’s passion for the sport has been a driving force in shaping his path to success. Thad began his journey in primary school and has since developed his skills through dedication, hard work, and countless hours on the water. His sailing career kicked off with the Dinghy Championships as his first race. He continued to challenge himself in regional competitions in St. Thomas, St. Croix, and Puerto Rico. At the age of 17, Thad made a significant transition from the youth class, Laser Radial, to the Olympic equipment known as the Laser. His sailing journey began in the Optimist class with the Royal BVI Yacht Club. Thad’s commitment to sailing led him to improve his skills by training with the Royal Canadian Yacht Club and attending the Canadian Laser Radial National Team Training Camp in Toronto. Learning from experienced coaches like Brenda Bowskill, who competed in the 2016 Olympics, has helped him excel in the sport today.

Later on, he joined the sailing teams of both Tabor Academy and Tulane University where he pursued his higher education, leaving behind a legacy for aspiring young athletes at both institutions. As a dedicated athlete who also excelled in demanding academics at Tabor and Tulane, Thad faced challenges in juggling his commitments and learned the art of making sacrifices to achieve success. He attributes Tabor for equipping him with the skills to effectively balance his academic pursuits with his athletic endeavors.

Thad’s groundbreaking achievements have extended far beyond the 2024 Olympic Games; he has been making waves in events like the Pan American Games. In 2019, Thad made history by representing the British Virgin Islands at his first Pan American Games in Peru, securing the 19th position while proudly representing the BVI in the Laser category. His remarkable achievement marked the first time in over two decades that a sailor from the BVI had attained this honour. Notably, at the age of 17, Thad emerged as the youngest competitor among the 22-boat fleet, which included elite Laser sailors from around the world, including multiple Olympians. Other accomplishments are a 10th-place finish at the U.S. Laser Nationals in Houston, Texas, followed by an impressive 14th place out of 58 international sailors at the Youth Sailing World Championship in Corpus Christi, Texas. Thad’s success continued as he earned a commendable 4th place overall in Laser Radials at the CORK International Regatta in Kingston, Canada. His remarkable performance at these various events showcased his talent and commitment to the sport of sailing,

Now, at the age of 22, Thad has charted his way to the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, becoming the first BVI sailor to participate in the Olympic Games since 1996, when 2-time Olympian Robby Hirst competed in the Laser event at the Atlanta Games. The BVIOC and Paris 2024 Chef de Mission, Tahesia Harrigan-Scott, received the formal invitation via email. Lettsome was among three sailors vying for the two available spots for the Universality Place. During The Last Chance Regatta in Hyères, France (April 21-27), Lettsome finished 31st out of 61 sailors, improving his rankings. Through the support of Olympic Solidarity and Panam Sports funding, the BVIOC has nurtured the development of sailing and Thad’s progress over the years, leading to this remarkable milestone!

Thad Lettsome competed in Race 4 of the Men’s Dinghy ILCA7 at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Marseille, France, finishing in 2nd place on August 2. Following a strategic adjustment in Race 4, Lettsome improved his overall standing to 34th out of 43 competitors. His coach, Chris Watters, provided guidance that helped Lettsome secure his impressive finish.

After the races, Minister for Education, Youth Affairs, and Sports, Honourable Sharie de Castro, and BVI Olympic Committee President Ephraim Penn congratulated Lettsome on his performance. Lettsome’s family, along with other officials, were present to support him during the event. Lettsome competed in races on August 4 and 5, with the medal race scheduled for August 6. These races provided him with further opportunities to showcase his skills on the world stage.

Thad Lettsome’s presence at the Paris 2024 Olympics is not just a personal victory but a symbol of pride for the British Virgin Islands at large, a reminder to aspiring athletes that hard work and determination can lead to extraordinary results. Let us all follow Thad Lettsome’s journey with anticipation and excitement as he sets sail towards history at the Summer Games.