Julien “Juju” Alfred has made history by winning Saint Lucia’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in the Women’s 100 metres at the Paris Olympics last Saturday. Three days later she added a silver medal in the Women’s 200 metres to her achievements, making her a national and global inspiration.
Prime Minister Philip J Pierre expressed immense pride in Alfred’s accomplishments and announced a public holiday and special recognition for her upon her return to Saint Lucia. He highlighted Julien’s journey from humble beginnings to this historic victory as a testament to her discipline, commitment, and hard work.
The Prime Minister recounted Alfred’s path from her early days in Ciceron, through secondary school, and colleges in Jamaica and Texas, USA, culminating in her graduation with a Bachelor’s degree in Youth and Community Development. He also acknowledged the support of those who helped shape her career, including her former coach Cuthbert ‘Trios Ti Nay’ Modeste and other mentors.
During a media briefing on Monday, PM Pierre praised Alfred’s triumph: “Julien has reached the pinnacle of success with her athletic performance …and all credit must go to Julien Alfred, who has been persistent with discipline and commitment to do what she did to become a World champion,” he said.
Saint Lucia has been thrust into the global spotlight due to Alfred’s incredible feats. After securing several championship titles, including the World Indoor 60-metre, Julien excelled in the preliminaries and semifinals at the Olympics, saving her best performance for the final.
On Saturday, August 3, a date that will be remembered in Saint Lucian sporting history, Alfred dominated the purple track of the Stade de France in Paris, outshining her competitors. Coincidentally, as she raced in Paris, Saint Lucia experienced ‘showers of blessings,’ adding to the electric atmosphere across the country.
Fans gathered at various locations, including Derek Walcott Square in Castries, Town Square in Vieux Fort, and the Bus Terminal in Soufriere, to watch the global spectacle. Amidst the Gros Islet carnival celebrations, fans erupted in joy as Julien crossed the finish line, leaving her opponents far behind in the 100 metres.
At 23 years old, Julien Alfred, a Gemini born on June 10, 2001, has captured the hearts of many Saint Lucians at home and abroad, as well as regional and global fans.