Birmingham 2022 had the “largest-ever integrated program of para-sport”, and also marked the first time that more women than men were awarded medals. Beyond its sporting successes, it also benefited the community by providing 40,000 jobs and volunteering opportunities alongside an investment of £38 million to further encourage and provide physical activity for those who need support.
This year’s Games were played over the course of a week and a half, beginning on the 29th of July and finishing on the 8th of August. Out of the 40 countries that participated, Australia and England were miles above the rest, coming in at over 170 medals each. Australia took the top spot by two total medals overall, winning 67 golds to England’s 57. More English history was made as our athletes broke the previous record of 174 medals, set in 2014 during the Glasglow Games.
Second-year squash player Jade Pitcairn went to Birmingham to represent her home country, the Cayman Islands. She competed in the women's singles and both the women's and mixed doubles with Marlene West and Jake Kelly respectively. She also made it into the Round of 32 in the women’s singles and the mixed doubles, and progressed into the Round of 16 for the women’s doubles.
We had a little chat with Jade to see how her time at the Games went and how she felt after.
To start off with the big question: what was your experience like at the Commonwealth Games?
J: The Commonwealth Games was amazing. I was able to gain experience and knowledge from the best players in the world at one of the biggest multi-sport events in the world. From the athlete’s village to the competition venues, the atmosphere was always welcoming and positive.
Well done on your achievements! How do you feel about being one of the top 20 female squash players in the Commonwealth Nations?
J: I felt really good about my performance at the Commonwealth Games. Playing with some of the top players in the world and representing my country was such an amazing experience and has motivated me to keep training hard.
Marlene West is quite a big name in squash for the Cayman Islands. How was it like playing doubles with her?
J: Marlene West has always been one of my role models when I was younger. I was so fortunate to have been coached by her and to train with her all the time. Marlene used to play squash professionally on the pro tour, so it’s always great to get as much knowledge and experience from her to further improve my game. She is an amazing player and it was a great feeling to share the court with her in the women’s doubles event.
You mentioned having more extensive training in anticipation for Birmingham, how did it pay off?
J: The Newcastle University Squash coach, Liam Gutcher, created a detailed training program for me leading up to the games. This involved a range of sessions per week including individual and group sessions, match play, ghosting, spinning, and strength and conditioning. My hard work definitely paid off and I was very happy with my performance.
Can you give us one highlight of your time in Birmingham?
J: One of my biggest highlights was the Commonwealth opening ceremony. Being able to walk out with my country was an amazing feeling and the crowd created the most vibrant atmosphere. We had all the support from family and friends back home who were able to watch on TV.
Marlene West has always been one of my role models and it was a great feeling to share the court with her in the women’s doubles event
Congratulations again to Jade for representing at the Games! If you want to read all about her thoughts prior to Birmingham, pick up a copy of the Cub Magazine (available on campus in the red bins) or go to 'Sport on Campus' under the Sport section on the Courier’s website!