Olympic 100m champion Julien Alfred, the island’s fastest woman, received a $1 million award from the Government of St. Lucia in recognition of her athletic achievements. Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre announced the reward Friday night at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground, during a concert celebrating “Julien Alfred Day.” The announcement sparked cheers and applause from the packed crowd.
“This is just a token of our nation’s deep appreciation for Julien’s accomplishments,” Pierre said.
The government also revealed plans to rename a section of the Millennium Highway in Alfred’s honor, dubbing it the Julien Alfred Highway. A monument will be erected at the roundabout along that stretch of road, further commemorating her success.
In addition to the cash prize, Alfred will receive a 10,720-square-foot parcel of land. The size reflects her national record time of 10.72 seconds, the mark that secured her gold in the 100m at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Alfred will also be featured on a commemorative stamp, and a series of exercise books bearing her image will be released.
Earlier on Friday, which was declared a national holiday in her honor, the Saint Lucia Olympic Committee gifted Alfred XCD 75,000. Corporate sponsors added to the celebration, with M&C and Massy Stores each donating $30,000, and Chreiki & Sons pledging $50,000. Unicomer promised $30,000 worth of gym equipment, while Landings contributed $10,000 per year. Adventure company 758 Adventures also awarded $25,000.
Alfred, who won gold at the World Indoors and holds multiple titles including Diamond League 100m champion, has been embraced by St. Lucians following her historic Olympic victory. She has been an international brand ambassador for PUMA since turning professional in 2023 and represents 1st National Bank locally. Recently, she signed with BodyHoliday and was named a Tourism Ambassador for St. Lucia.
The week-long celebrations also included a six-hour motorcade, school rallies, a flotilla, a cocktail reception, and the unveiling of a mural at Alfred’s alma mater, Ciceron RC Primary.
Photo: Government of Saint Lucia
