Saint Lucia Declares September 27 as “Julien Alfred Day” to Honor Olympic Champion
The government of Saint Lucia has officially declared September 27 as “Julien Alfred Day” in honor of the nation’s first Olympic gold medalist, Julien Alfred. This national holiday will commemorate the remarkable achievements of the 23-year-old athlete who triumphed in the women’s 100m event at the Paris 2024 Olympics, securing a time of 10.72 seconds.
The festivities surrounding Julien Alfred Day will include a series of celebrations, culminating in a complimentary concert on the designated holiday. Alfred is expected to return to her homeland on September 24, where a grand motorcade will welcome her, followed by school visitations on September 25. During these celebrations, the Olympian will also unveil a mural dedicated to her likeness at a local primary school, symbolizing her monumental impact on the sporting landscape of Saint Lucia.
Alfred’s historic performance at the Paris Olympics not only granted her the prestigious gold medal but also positioned her as a trailblazer in Saint Lucia’s athletic history, as she subsequently earned a silver medal in the women’s 200m, making her the first athlete from the island to medal at the Olympics in eight attempts. Having outpaced renowned competitors such as Sha’Carri Richardson and Melissa Jefferson, Alfred’s accomplishments serve as a source of immense pride for her nation, fulfilling her long-standing aspiration to elevate the Saint Lucian flag on an international stage.
In her own words, Alfred expressed her dream of representing Saint Lucia, stating, “I think it would be a proud moment, not just for me and my family, but my country.” The establishment of Julien Alfred Day stands as a testament to her dedication and success, offering a platform for future generations of athletes in Saint Lucia to aspire toward greatness as well.
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