The official designation of September 27 as “Julien Alfred Day,” a national holiday honoring Julien Alfred, the first athlete from the island to win an Olympic gold medal, is a momentous occasion for Saint Lucia. In addition to setting a national record and personal best in the 100 meters with a time of 10.72 seconds, Alfred made history by winning the gold in the 200 meters at the Olympic Games in Paris. Her remarkable performance was the first Olympic medal ever won by an athlete from St. Lucia.
During a pre-cabinet news meeting on Monday, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre revealed the elaborate celebrations slated for Alfred’s return to the island. On September 24, Alfred—who has grown to be a national hero—will make her first trip back to Saint Lucia since her Olympic victory. To celebrate, a number of activities have been planned, including a motorcade, school demonstrations, and the presentation of a mural. On September 27, there will be a national holiday.
When Alfred comes to Saint Lucia on September 24, there will be a motorcade greeting her along the East Coast, signaling the start of the festivities. To honor her accomplishments, nationwide school rallies will take place at La Resource Playing Field and Soufriere Mini Stadium on September 25. Alfred is scheduled to visit The Ciceron Primary School on September 26th, the day after her birthday, to witness the dedication of a mural in her honor. Following this, there will be what authorities have called “massive announcements.”
On the evening of the holiday, “Julien Alfred Day” will be commemorated with a free performance at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. Saint Lucians are invited to attend in great numbers in celebration of their national hero.
Following the Prime Minister’s declaration, the public expressed their appreciation and pride in Alfred while also urging more acknowledgment of his achievements. It was proposed by some that Alfred be given the keys to Castries and a diplomatic passport. Others suggested creating a legacy initiative to elevate sports in Saint Lucia to a global standard as well as the Julien Alfred Fund for outstanding athletes.
Saint Lucia is extremely proud of Alfred’s accomplishments, which have also elevated the island’s profile in the world of athletics. A new generation of athletes in Saint Lucia have been inspired by her gold and silver medals from the Olympics in Paris, and the celebrations are anticipated to be a historic occasion of national pride and unity.
With the declaration of “Julien Alfred Day,” Saint Lucians will commemorate not just Alfred’s accomplishments but also their small island’s capacity to generate elite athletes capable of competing and winning on the greatest sporting arenas.
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