ECNETNews, New York, NY, August 5, 2024: St. Lucian sprinter Julien Alfred and Thea La Fond from Dominica made headlines on August 3rd at the Paris 2024 Olympics, marking historic achievements for their nations while celebrating the Caribbean’s presence on the global athletic stage.
Julien Alfred etched her name in the record books, claiming the title of the fastest woman in the world by winning gold in the women’s 100m event, beating American star Sha’Carri Richardson at Stade de France in Saint-Denis.
Alfred finished with a time of 10.72 seconds, outpacing Richardson’s 10.87 seconds. This victory not only secured her Olympic gold but also established a new national record for St. Lucia. The 23-year-old athlete, coached by renowned mentor Edrick Floreal, previously attended Leon Hess Comprehensive Secondary School in Saint Lucia before furthering her education in Jamaica and the United States.
Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre of St. Lucia praised Alfred’s accomplishment, expressing pride for both nations’ historic Olympic performances. “Today is a great day for OECS states and the Caribbean,” Pierre stated, highlighting the significance of this win.
Meanwhile, La Fond achieved her Olympic triumph in the women’s triple jump with an impressive leap of 15.02 meters on her second attempt, securing her first Olympic gold and setting a national record for Dominica. The 30-year-old athlete’s recent success adds to her triumph at the World Indoor Championships earlier this year.
After her victory, La Fond reflected, “This season wasn’t easy but we did it when it mattered, and that’s what counts.” Dominica’s Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit, celebrated her achievement, calling it an inspiration for future generations.
In related news, the Jamaican contingent found moments of joy amidst heartbreak at the Olympics. Shanieka Ricketts earned silver in the women’s triple jump with a season-best of 14.87 meters on August 3rd, while Rajindra Campbell claimed bronze in the men’s shot put with a throw of 22.15 meters.
Jamaican sprinter Kishane Thompson faced a near-miss in the men’s 100 meters, finishing just after American Noah Lyles in a photo finish that clocked both athletes at 9.79 seconds. This narrow loss left Thompson with a sense of disappointment as he aimed to be the first Jamaican man to win gold in this event since Usain Bolt in 2016.
Additionally, Grenadian athlete Lindon Victor secured bronze in the men’s decathlon, marking Grenada’s first medal of the Paris Olympics. Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell lauded Victor’s achievement, recognizing his dedication and perseverance.
Cuba also celebrated its first medal at these Olympics with boxer Arlen Lopez winning bronze in the Men’s 80 KG competition. Dominican athletes Yunior Reyes and Cristian Javier Pinales secured bronze medals in their respective weight classes, further contributing to the Caribbean’s medal count.
As the Paris 2024 Olympics continue until August 11th, the Caribbean proudly showcases the remarkable achievements of its athletes on the world stage.
