Minister for Youth Development and Sports Kenson Casimir has spoken of the national pride over Julien Alfred’s win in the women’s 100m in Hungary Tuesday.
“It is a pride that all of us feel when we see that somebody from Ciceron, wrap your mind around that, going and beat the rest of the world,” the Gros Islet MP told reporters.
Casimir spoke Wednesday on the sidelines of a meeting of the House of Assembly.
He declared that Saint Lucia needs to be very proud.
“It’s an era where we need to put politics aside and that sort of thing and jump on board and support Julien to the best of our abilities,” the Minister stated.
On her professional debut, Alfred defeated American Sha’Carri Richardson to win the women’s 100m in 10.89.
Casimir observed that the likes of Richardson could not intimidate the Saint Lucia athlete.
“I don’t think any of us are surprised by now by her exploits. We have never had an athlete who has worked so hard mentally, so hard physically, emotionally to get to where she is,” the Minister said of Alfred.
And Casimir recalled having about three conversations with her before the Hungary win.
” We had conversations about ensuring that from the budget that we created for her, first in Saint Lucia’s history as an athlete, that she was able to access the psychosocial support, the physical support, the emotional support ahead of what we saw,” he told reporters.
Casimir observed that Alfred ran a very good race.
“We expect her to do the same at the world championships,” he said.
Amazing young lady. So proud of your achievements. You truly are a reflection of the best of us; dedication, hard work and perseverance. Keep reaching for the stars, we are so proud of you. All the best. xo