Virgin Islands Sports Ambassador Michelle Smith etched her name into the history books at the 2025 FISU World University Games in Rhine-Ruhr, Germany, by winning a silver medal in the Women’s 400m Hurdles — the first-ever medal earned by a female athlete from the Virgin Islands at these prestigious Games.
Smith’s journey to the podium was marked by consistency, grit, and world-class execution. After advancing through the preliminary rounds with the 9th fastest time, she surged to 2nd place in her semi-final, clocking 56.37 seconds to secure the 4th best time overall heading into the final.
In the championship race, held on Thursday, July 24, Smith ran from Lane 8, delivering a spectacular performance that earned her the silver medal in a time of 55.65 and a place among the elite university athletes from around the globe.
Her achievement not only highlights her individual excellence but also marks a watershed moment for Virgin Islands athletics. Smith’s medal is a symbol of progress, inspiration, and the growing impact of female athletes from the territory on the international stage.
As she continues her ascent in the sport, Michelle Smith’s silver shines as a beacon for future generations — proving that with talent, determination, and heart, the Virgin Islands can stand tall among the world’s best.
Smith’s next competition will be the Junior Panam Games in Asuncion, Paraguay from Aug. 15 to Aug. 25.
