Members of Team Virgin Islands continue to proudly represent the territory at the ongoing Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile. Athletes competing in fencing and archery events recently had their turn in the spotlight.
Fencer Kruz Schembri finished in the top 10 in the Men’s Individual Foil competition. Having just turned 17, Mr. Schembri was the youngest of 19 competitors in that category. This was his second Pan American games, following his participation in the 2022 championships held in Paraguay. “To represent the VI while I’m here also means a lot,” the young fencer said. “I’m just using that as motivation for every point going on through this tournament and onwards, so it really means a lot to be here,” remarked the young athlete.
Meanwhile, 70-year-old archer Anne Abernathy represented the territory in the Women’s Individual Recurve competition, in which she placed 21st in her division. Despite the result, the 6-time Virgin Islands Winter Olympian remained triumphant. “It’s terrific to have the folks back home cheering me on. Also, the archery family is highly encouraging and supportive. I’m the oldest archer on the range and at the age of 70 I may be the oldest athlete at the Pan Am Games. Yet I’m still holding my own against athletes less than half my age,” Ms. Abernathy declared.
Nicholas D’Armour also finished in 21st position in the Men’s Individual Recurve competition. He was unfortunately beaten out by El Salvador’s representative in the elimination round, while Ms. Abernathy was eliminated in her second round in a match against Mexico’s representative. The two still have a chance to medal for the USVI, having ranked 9th in the mixed team division, advancing to play against Cuba on Friday.
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