Honouring Womens Month

Number #19 in the series is Karen

Shihan Karen Baptiste: 6th Degree Purple Dragon Black Belt

Training for over 30 years.

Represented and won medals for the Cayman Islands at international competitions such as the World Karate Championships and the US Open Int’l Sport Karate Association Championships.

Has written published articles to help empower women in the Martial Arts.

Quote: “Many stand on the shoulders of giants to elevate them on to successes in life.  We must also use the energy of the doubters to propel us into our destiny.  It is through both avenues that we have a true appreciation for new levels of success we achieve”. #AccelerateAction!

Number #20 in the series is Dianne

Senpai Dianne Gordon: 3rd Degree Purple Dragon Black Belt

Age 58 years.

Training for 22yrs Winning medals for the Cayman Islands in international competitions like the World Karate Championships and US Open Int’l Sport Karate Association Championships.

Quote: “We practice to bring out the best in ourselves, even on the days we don’t feel like it.” #AccelerateAction!

Number #21 in the series is Farrah

Farrah Hydes: 1st Degree Purple Dragon Black Belt

Age 16 year.

Training for 9 years

Honor Roll Student at Cayman Prep

Training Education Assistance Member assisting youth

Quote: “Hard work neva kill no one, only made us women stronger.” #AccelerateAction!

Number #22 in the series is Shana

Shana J. Linwood-McLaughlin: National Basketballer

Profession: Architect

Lifelong basketball advocate, Women of Valor Basketball Club.  A member of the Women of Valor Basketball Club since age 11, journey spanning 20 years.

Over the years, assisted with the Girls Basketball Academy whenever home from university. Volunteer coach of youth basketball teams whenever a coach was needed. Currently. Youth Leader at my church; actively involved in Girls Brigade, youth groups, and Sunday School. I use passion and my experiences to encourage young people to persevere and never give up on working hard for what they want.

Quote: “As women, we bring a unique strength to everything we do—on and off the court. We juggle work, family, and responsibilities while still finding time to play the game we love. It’s not just about winning trophies; it’s about overcoming challenges, showing resilience, and inspiring the next generation of girls to believe in what’s possible. For me, basketball has been more than just a sport — it has been a God-given platform to teach perseverance, hard work, and faith. I believe that God plants us where we are, whether for a season or a lifetime, to make an impact and lead others to know Him personally. I hope young girls see that even when life throws its toughest curveballs, with faith and determination, we can adapt, persevere, and redefine what it means to win. Together, we accelerate action and create space for women to thrive in sports and beyond.” – SLM, Architect and lifelong basketball advocate, Women of Valor Basketball Club.  #AccelerateAction!

Number #23 in the series is Pat

Patricia Evans Garrett: Former National Athlete

Squash – Local & National Team

Attended Women’s World Squash Championships in Vancouver

Multiple Caribbean Championships with a #2 individual Caribbean ranking

Multiple Rose bowl (Northern Caribbean Championships) Ladies team multiple winners

US National “B” Squash Champion - Multiple CI National Squash Association Ladies Champion

Multiple South Sound Squash Club Ladies Champion CI Female Sportsperson of the Year - Female

Netball - Local & National Team

Netballer of the year. Represented Cayman at World Championships in Australia.

Voluntary Work: Former Chairman of South Sound Squash Club & CINSRA

Former Technical Swimming Judge

Former FINA Open Water Referee

For Fun: 1st Marathon at age 40

22 Official marathons – 15 Major marathons (Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, New York); 6 Star Finisher in 2023, 1st Cayman Female (+ Sydney which was added in 2024)

Over 20 Half Marathons - 50K Off the Beaten Track

Quote: My mantra - “Keep going and going.” #AccelerateAction!

Number #24 in the series is Lauren

Lauren Hew: Former National Swimmer and Medalist

Represented the Cayman Islands at the CARIFTA Games, earning over 20 medals for Team Cayman throughout her career.

Competed internationally at the Island Games, Pan American Games, World Championships, and Commonwealth Games, where she advanced to the semi-finals in both the 50m backstroke and 50m freestyle at just 14 and 16 years old.

Continued her athletic journey at Florida State University, competing at the Division 1 university level. Her commitment to both sports and community service earned her the Atlantic Coast Conference Top 6 for Service award in 2022.

Quote: “International Women’s Month is a perfect opportunity to reflect on the power of sport and the role female athletes play in shaping communities. While I’m no longer competing as a national swimmer, I’m finding just as much joy participating in the various sporting events that Cayman has to offer. 

It’s important to use our experiences—whether as athletes or passionate individuals—to inspire others. For those who may not be athletes, we can encourage them to excel in whatever they love and perhaps even motivate them to explore the world of sports. For fellow athletes of our sport, we have the unique opportunity to guide them through the challenges of their journey, helping them embrace the highs and lows and truly enjoy the incredible path that being an athlete offers.” #AccelerateAction!