Alfred, who sprinted far beyond the finish line after her victory, later dedicated her gold medal to her late father
By Kehinde Okeowo
St Lucia’s Julien Alfred made history as the first Olympic medallist for her country after clinching the women’s 100m title at the Paris 2024 games in an emphatic style.
The Caribbean island of fewer than 200,000 people, prior to this had fielded athletes at seven previous Olympic Games without winning a medal.
However, as the rain teemed down at a raucous Stade de France, Alfred, dominated the final and sealed victory by a clear margin in a national record 10.72 seconds.
She was followed by American world champion, Sha’Carri Richardson who took silver in 10.87 seconds.
Her compatriot Melissa Jefferson, who came second during trials in the United States ran 10.92 seconds to come third.
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The jubilant Alfred who continued to sprint far beyond the finish line in celebration after the victory later dedicated her goal medal to her late father.
The 23-year-old, who said her dad passed away eleven years ago and was unable to see her succeed, also acknowledged her coach and God.
Speaking after the enviable feat, she said: “I’m thinking of God [and] my dad, who didn’t get to see me.
“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.”
