Julien Alfred Wins 100 Meters for St. Lucia’s First Olympic Medal in Paris 2024 Olympic Games
In a historic moment for St. Lucia, Julien Alfred claimed the gold medal in the women’s 100 meters at the Paris Olympics, marking the island nation’s first-ever Olympic medal. Alfred’s victory was especially poignant as she dedicated it to her late father, who passed away when she was around 12 years old.
Julien Alfred’s journey to Olympic glory began in her childhood when she was discovered by her school librarian. Recognizing her speed, Alfred pursued athletics, but the loss of her father led her to temporarily step away from the sport. It was her coach who persuaded her to return and give it another chance. This decision set Alfred on a path that would eventually lead to Olympic history. As a teenager, Alfred moved to Jamaica to receive advanced training and later attended the University of Texas, where she became a multiple NCAA champion. Her perseverance and dedication culminated in her stunning performance at the Stade de France.
Under teeming rain, the 23-year-old Alfred dominated the final, setting a new national record of 10.72 seconds in the Stade de France. She outpaced the US world champion Sha’Carri Richardson, who took silver with a time of 10.87 seconds. American Melissa Jefferson claimed the bronze in 10.92 seconds, narrowly beating Great Britain’s Daryll Neita, who finished fourth with a time of 10.96 seconds.
Julien Alfred’s triumph not only brought pride to St. Lucia, a Caribbean island with a population of fewer than 200,000 people, but it also etched her name in the annals of Olympic history. Her emotional dedication to her father resonated deeply. “I’m thinking of God, and my dad, who didn’t get to see me,” Alfred said after her victory. “He passed away in 2013. Dad, this is for you. I miss you. I did it for him, I did it for my coach and God.”
Julien Alfred’s achievement is a testament to her resilience and the unwavering support of her coach and loved ones. Her story will undoubtedly inspire future generations of athletes from St. Lucia and beyond.
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