Julien Alfred, Saint Lucia’s golden woman of monitor and subject, acquired a hero’s welcome on Thursday afternoon, because the island nation proudly celebrated its first-ever medal on the World Athletics Championships.
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The 24-year-old sprinting sensation touched down at Hewanorra Worldwide Airport after securing a historic bronze within the ladies’s 100m closing on the 2025 World Championships in Tokyo.
Although already a family title following her Olympic gold medal in Paris final yr, Alfred’s newest achievement marks a brand new milestone not solely in her profession, however within the annals of Saint Lucian sport.
To honour the second, Saint Lucia rolled out the pink carpet. A jubilant welcome-home ceremony was hosted on the tarmac, attended by dignitaries from the Ministry of Youth Growth and Sports activities, the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee, the Saint Lucia Athletics Affiliation, the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, company sponsors together with 1st Nationwide Financial institution, BodyHoliday Saint Lucia, and dozens of native athletes who got here to pay tribute to their nationwide icon.
“Welcome residence. We’re eternally pleased with you,” declared Sports activities Minister Kenson Casimir, addressing Alfred straight as she stepped off the airplane. “You proceed to point out the world that Saint Lucia is a spot of resilience and excellence.”
Alfred’s bronze medal might not have been a private finest or her highest end on the worldwide stage, however it represented one thing far larger: the end result of years of perseverance and a brand new chapter within the sporting legacy of her homeland.
“As I reminisce and I take into consideration the season I had, regardless that it didn’t finish the best way I wished it to, I’m very proud to convey residence a bronze medal. The primary ever for Saint Lucia,” Alfred advised the gathered crowd, her voice tinged with each humility and gratitude.
Nonetheless basking within the power of Tokyo, Alfred made it clear that medals weren’t her solely takeaway from the season.
“The spotlight of my season is simply the quantity of Saint Lucians I noticed, wherever I am going, the quantity of flags. That would be the spotlight of my season this yr,” she stated, capturing the emotional bond she shares along with her compatriots.
“Julien, you’re our satisfaction, our star, and our lasting inspiration,” stated Dora Henry, President of the Saint Lucia Athletics Affiliation, describing her as a “shining instance” of dedication and excellence.
Because the celebrations continued, one factor was clear: Julien Alfred is a champion on the monitor, but additionally a cherished image of nationwide satisfaction.
