By Reginald Andrew
As Saint Lucia continues to celebrate the accomplishments of its athletes-the Belle Vue community in Vieux-Fort and the Saint Lucia Athletics Association [SLAA] recently revelled in the successes of “The Princess of Track and Field,” Naomi London.
Naomi, 17 has accomplished the distinction of a Two-time CARIFTA Silver Medallist, SLAA Junior Athlete of the Year and this year’s Student Athlete of the Year titles in her young and illustrious career and is on course to becoming a star athlete.
She secured second place in the 100m and 200m races at the 2023 CARIFTA Games, held in the Bahamas.
A community billboard to honour the track star was unveiled, this week, during an official ceremony in the constituency.
Kendal Elva, Deputy Social Director in the Ministry of Equity says the Billboard is being displayed to enable London to push to higher heights.
“Naomi is a 17-year-old and the journey is just commencing,” he declared.
“Even if she has done so well we want to say to her that she should not give up and should persist,” added Elva. “Very importantly, in addition to the tributes given to her and as a token of appreciation we will unveil a Billboard with Naomi’s face on it and some of her most significant achievements.”
He explained that the billboard is strategically located at the Belle Vue gap, in the community.
Commenting on this latest recognition, London declared: “Having my face on the Billboard and everyone passing by and seeing me, it felt good. I wasn’t expecting it though.”
Extending some advice to other young and upcoming athletes, she said, “My advice for the young people out there who participate in sporting events is that, you can do it. I did it, so you all can.
“I am hoping that this is a motivation and inspiration to the little young kids who participate in sports to go out there and do their best.”
London acknowledges the high support from her community, as “everyone has been supporting me, everywhere I go.”
MP for Vieux Fort North Moses Jn. Baptiste underlined the need for individuals to be celebrated at every stage of their sporting career.
“Naomi London has done quite well for herself and for the pride of the community and Saint Lucia. And as she progresses, I’m sure she will build on her successes one success at a time,” he said.
Jn. Baptiste emphasised that: “There’s a lot more to do, but I’m very pleased that the community recognizes that we have somebody in the community with such talent. And we need to celebrate her and celebrate her talents.”
Naomi is now set to join the Texas Longhorns in September, where she will be pursuing studies at the University of Texas.
In an online- post, guest speaker at the unveiling ceremony, attorney -at-law and community activist Jadia Jn. Pierre stated, “Naomi is such an inspiration we expect to see continued development and improvement as she works towards her dream of becoming an Olympic and World Champion.”
Jn Pierre added, “No matter where you may roam, remember, Belle Vue, Vieux Fort, Saint Lucia will always be home.
May God bless, guide and keep you. We thank your family, coach, schools, community, for such a beautiful gift.
Do not let the world steal your joy or dim your smile.”