In August, Jamaica heads to Chengdu, China, for the World Games 2025 — and even though we’re sending just two athletes, this is one of those moments that’s bigger than the numbers.
Unlike the Olympics, the World Games celebrates the lesser-known sports — things like powerlifting, sambo, squash, lacrosse, even breakdancing. And guess what? Jamaica is in the building!
Who’s Representing?
As of now, the specific names of Jamaica's athletes competing in powerlifting and sambo at the 2025 World Games in Chengdu have not been officially announced. While the Jamaica Olympic Association has confirmed that the country will be sending two athletes—one in powerlifting and one in sambo—detailed information about the individuals representing Jamaica in these sports is yet to be released .en.wikipedia.org
However, notable Jamaican athletes in these disciplines include:
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Sami DePass: A prominent powerlifter who recently secured a fourth-place finish in the women's 76kg class at the International Powerlifting Federation World Classic Open Powerlifting Championships. Her performance marked a significant improvement from her previous year's result and has been celebrated within the Jamaican powerlifting community .jamaica-gleaner.com
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Matthew Colquhoun: A three-time Pan American Games Combat Sambo gold medalist, Colquhoun has been instrumental in promoting sambo in Jamaica and has represented the country in various international competitions .jamaica-gleaner.com
While these athletes have made significant contributions to their respective sports, it is currently unclear if they will be the ones representing Jamaica at the 2025 World Games. Official announcements from the Jamaica Olympic Association are anticipated as the event approaches.
✨ Why This Is A Big Deal
Let’s keep it real: We’re known worldwide for sprinting. That’s our crown. But this? This is about showing the world what else we’re made of.
These athletes aren’t coming from million-dollar training camps. They’re pushing through on passion, community support, and grit. This is real yard work — sweat, sacrifice, and love for sport.
💬 More Than Medals
This trip isn’t just about gold or glory. It’s about:
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Showing up and representing the flag, even in places we’ve never been seen before.
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Inspiring youth who might not fit into the usual track-and-field mold.
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And reminding the world that Jamaican talent runs deep — not just fast.
🥋 Wait... What’s Sambo?
You’re not the only one asking.
Sambo is a martial art from Russia — part judo, part wrestling — all fire. It’s fast-paced, strategic, and rough. And now, a Jamaican athlete is stepping into that arena. That alone deserves respect.
📣 Why We’re Hyped
This isn’t just about sports. It’s about identity. Expansion. Pride.
When we show up in new spaces, we’re telling a wider story:
That Jamaica isn’t a one-lane country.
That we’ve got powerlifters and poets, martial artists and entrepreneurs.
That our culture has layers — and they’re all worth celebrating.
🗓 Save the Date
📍 World Games 2025
🗓 August 7–17
📍 Chengdu, China
So when those two athletes hit the global stage, remember:
They’re not just lifting weights or throwing down on the mat.
They’re lifting the dream of every Jamaican who’s ever wanted to compete, create, or carve their own lane.
Let’s cheer them on — loud and proud.
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