In a landmark moment for Saint Lucia, the government has officially declared September 27 as “Julien Alfred Day” in honour of sprinter Julien Alfred, the first athlete from the island to win an Olympic gold medal.
Prime Minister Philip Pierre made the announcement during a pre-cabinet press briefing, outlining a series of grand celebrations to honour Alfred’s return to the island after her record-breaking performance at the Paris Olympic Games.
Alfred stunned the world by claiming gold in the 100 meters with a lifetime best and national record of 10.72 seconds, and further solidified her place in history by securing silver in the 200 meters. This achievement makes her the first St. Lucian to ever win an Olympic medal, bringing unprecedented pride and joy to the island.
Alfred, now a national hero, will return to Saint Lucia on September 24 for the first time since her Olympic triumph. Her homecoming will be marked by a motorcade along the East Coast, followed by national school rallies on September 25 at Soufriere Mini Stadium and La Resource Playing Field. On September 26, she will visit The Ciceron Primary School for the unveiling of a mural in her honor, a tribute to her remarkable achievements.
The national celebrations will culminate on September 27 with “Julien Alfred Day,” featuring a free concert at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground.
Citizens have expressed immense pride and gratitude for Alfred’s success, with some suggesting that she should be awarded a diplomatic passport and the keys to the city of Castries. Others have called for the establishment of a Julien Alfred Fund for elite athletes and a legacy project to advance sports development in Saint Lucia.