St Lucia to honour Olympic champion Julien Alfred with statue

CASTRIES, St Lucia. The St Lucia government says plans for a statue honouring Olympic champion Julien Alfred are well under way.

Alfred became St Lucia's first Olympic gold medallist when she won the women's 100m at the 2024 Paris Games in a record-breaking 10.72 seconds, one of the island's most celebrated sporting moments.

Education, Youth Development, Sports and Digital Transformation Minister Kenson Casimir gave an update on the project at a recent pre-Cabinet press briefing.

Site purchased

Casimir said architects, designers and technical officers from several ministries, including planning, infrastructure, tourism and sports, were working together on the project.

A location near the Julien Alfred Highway has been identified and purchased. The government has received several design proposals, which are being reviewed to ensure the monument appropriately honours the country's first Olympic champion.

"I believe Julien Alfred absolutely deserves it. I am very happy and excited about some of the designs I have seen," Casimir said.

Officials are assessing the proposed site for road safety, visibility and ease of public access before making a final decision.

A national landmark

Casimir said the statue is expected to become a national landmark where locals and visitors can come together to celebrate Alfred's achievement.

He said it should also encourage young people and aspiring athletes to work towards their own goals.

The government has already provided financial support for Alfred's Olympic preparations and fulfilled other commitments made in her honour. The statue is the latest step in recognising her contribution to St Lucia's sporting history.