St Lucians are today, September 27, celebrating Julien Alfred Day, a national holiday to commemorate the historic performance of sprinter Julien Alfred at the 2024 Summer Olympics.

The 23-year-old sprinter created history by winning the first-ever Olympic medal for St Lucia by copping the gold medal in the women’s 100-meter finals. She also set a new national record of 10.72 seconds.

Alfred was also a silver medallist in the women’s 200-metre.

Following this outstanding performance, St Lucia’s Prime Minister Phillip Pierre declared today a national holiday to celebrate the country’s first Olympic medallist.

Celebrations officially kicked off on Tuesday with the sprinter’s grand return to the island, followed by a motorcade and celebrations at schools.

A mural was also unveiled of the sprinter on Thursday at her alma mater, Ciceron Primary School.

Festivities continue today with a free concert at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground at 4 pm. The day has been described as a momentous occasion of national pride and unity.

“The past four days here on island have been nothing short of amazing! I have laughed, cried, danced and celebrated with my fellow Saint Lucians and today we get to end it all on a very special day at the Daren Sammy Cricket Grounds. To All, both here and abroad, thank you celebrating me. I will forever be grateful. Saint Lucia will always be in my heart!” Alfred said in a social media post.

Alfred is now a tourism ambassador for her country, promoting St Lucia as a viable tourism destination.