GUARANTEED MEDAL: VIPD OFFICER CINDY CLAUDIO FIGHTS AT CAC GAMES FOR TOP SPOT
By JOHN McCARTHY / St. Croix Sun News Reporter
CHARLOTTE AMALIE — Virgin Islands Police Department Officer Cindy Claudio has officially secured a medal for the territory at the 2026 Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
Following a victory over Puerto Rico in the quarterfinals of the women's 65-kilogram division, Claudio has guaranteed herself at least a bronze medal. Tomorrow night, she steps back into the ring for a high-stakes semifinal bout against Guatemala’s Maria Chiroy, with the winner advancing to fight for gold.
Dual Duty: SWAT Officer & Elite Fighter
When she isn't representing the territory on the international canvas, Claudio serves as a VIPD officer on St. Thomas, maintaining tactical readiness as a qualified member of the department's Special Response Team (SRT) and SWAT unit.
Her run at the 2026 CAC Games highlights years of rigorous dual-discipline dedication:
Law Enforcement Grounding: Serves as an active officer with the Virgin Islands Police Department in Charlotte Amalie.
Podium Guarantee: Locked up at least a bronze medal for the USVI by dispatching her quarterfinal opponent from Puerto Rico in the 65kg bracket.
International Track Record: Represents the USVI Boxing team across major regional platforms, including a gold medal finish at the Jose "Cheo" Aponte Tournament in Puerto Rico.
"She is the most incredible human being I know and has trained for many years for this moment," shared her sister in a public message rallying support across the territory. "She is fighting... this Thursday! Help me cheer her on."
The Path to Gold
Claudio's Thursday semifinal matchup against Guatemala's Maria Chiroy serves as the gateway to the championship bout. A victory tomorrow night punches her ticket directly to the gold medal match, adding another chapter to an exceptional international run for the VIPD officer and USVI Amateur Boxing Federation representative.
To watch Cindy LIVE! on YouTube Thursday night, please click this link.
