The workshop marked the official introduction of both fencing and wheelchair fencing to Trinidad and Tobago and represented a significant step forward in the development of inclusive sport within the Caribbean region. The initiative was specifically designed to introduce the Paralympic sport of wheelchair fencing and Olympic fencing to new participants, identify potential Para athletes and coaches, and establish the foundation for future fencing and Para fencing programmes nationally.

A strong emphasis was placed on accessibility and inclusion throughout the event, with both able-bodied and Para athletes training together under the guidance of international fencing coaches and technical representatives.

The workshop featured internationally recognised fencing coaches and athletes including Anne Marie Walters, Curtis McDowald, Jeanette Starks-Faulkner, and Sharone Huey and local Para fencing coaches Micky Ruben and Earlin Stanford, participants of the Wheelchair Fencing Academy organised by World Para Fencing held in Sao Paulo, Brazil, in 2024.

Also in attendance was Melissa Alvarenga, Executive Secretary of the Pan American Fencing Confederation, alongside regional sporting leaders and representatives from the Trinidad and Tobago Olympic Committee and Caribbean Association of National Olympic Committees.

Participants were introduced to wheelchair fencing through classroom instruction, equipment familiarisation, practical demonstrations, and adaptive technical training sessions. Activities included wheelchair positioning, introductory sparring, technical drills, and adaptive fencing exercises designed to demonstrate the accessibility and competitive nature of the sport.

“The TTPC believes the workshop represents an important first step toward establishing structured wheelchair fencing opportunities in Trinidad and Tobago while creating additional Paralympic pathways for persons with disabilities,” Ruben said.

“The success of the programme has already generated significant interest among athletes, coaches, and stakeholders, with future development programmes, coaching education initiatives, and additional training opportunities expected to follow.

“The Trinidad and Tobago Paralympic Committee expresses its appreciation to all international coaches, technical representatives, volunteers, sponsors, and partners who contributed to the successful delivery of the initiative.”

One of the highlights of the workshop involved participants Gerard Asyn and Nikolai Salandy engaging in introductory wheelchair fencing activities, while female Para fencer Shanntol Ince also participated in the practical sessions, helping showcase the inclusivity and developmental potential of the sport within Trinidad and Tobago.

The event attracted 73 able-bodied athletes and five Para athletes, ranging from seven years old and above, reflecting strong public interest in the programme.

Day three of the workshop featured advanced drills, evaluations, and demonstration competitions, including exhibition bouts involving the visiting professional fencers. The final day was also streamed live on the Trinidad and Tobago Paralympic Committee Facebook page, increasing public engagement and visibility for wheelchair fencing within the country.