Chantel E. Malone's Historic Appearance at World
Chantel E. Malone, the acclaimed long jumper from the British Virgin Islands, faced challenges in the World Athletics Championships finals in Tokyo, marking her 5th appearance and 3rd final at the Worlds. Despite a commendable effort, she secured a 12th place finish with a jump of 6.33 meters, amidst a strong field led by Tara Davis-Woodhall.
In a testament to her skill and resilience, Chantel E. Malone, the 32-year-old long jumper from the British Virgin Islands, made her fifth appearance at the World Athletics Championships held in Tokyo, a significant milestone for both her and the BVI athletics. Malone, a Pan American Games gold medallist and the BVI national record holder with a personal best of 7.08 meters, showcased her talent by qualifying for the finals with a remarkable 6.62M jump on Saturday, September 13, 2025, finishing fourth in her qualification group and securing her spot in the finals.
This achievement highlighted her competitive edge among the world's top contenders. However, the finals on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at the Tokyo Olympic Stadium, posed challenges for Malone. She reached a best mark of 6.33 meters, placing her 12th among the elite athletes. According to JTV, Malone's attempts included a 6.17-meter jump on her first attempt, her best of 6.33 meters on the second, with a positive wind reading of +0.2, and a 6.23 meters on her third and final attempt.
Despite not surpassing her qualifying performance, Malone's participation and performance were celebrated achievements, underscoring the BVI's growing presence on the global athletic stage. This year's event was historic for the British Virgin Islands, with a record six athletes representing the territory, including Malone.
This contingent showcased the territory's athletic talent and determination. According to VINO, Malone's fifth appearance at the World Athletics Championships and her third time reaching the finals, although not yielding her personal best, still marked a significant moment in her career and for BVI athletics.
The World Athletics Championships, which concluded on September 21, 2025, saw American Tara Davis-Woodhall winning the event with an impressive 7.13 meters. Malaika Mihambo of Germany and Natalia Linares of Colombia took the silver and bronze, respectively, with Mihambo leaping 6.99 meters and Linares setting a personal best of 6.92 meters.
Malone's efforts were celebrated by the community, embodying the spirit and resilience of BVI athletes on the international stage and setting a precedent for future competitions. Despite the challenges faced in the finals, Malone's journey to the World Athletics Championships finals remains a historic moment for the BVI in international sports, commemorating not just her achievements but also the increasing recognition of BVI athletes worldwide.
Primary source: VINO