Sprint sensation Julien Alfred received a hero’s welcome on Thursday afternoon as she returned home from the 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, where she secured a historic bronze medal for Saint Lucia.
Fresh off her performance, Alfred reflected on a season marked by both triumph and challenge. An injury forced her to withdraw from the 200-meter event, but the sprinter remained proud of her accomplishments.
“Even though it didn’t end the way I wanted, I think I’m very proud to bring home a bronze medal, the first ever for Saint Lucia,” Alfred said. She added that the overwhelming support she encountered globally, from Boston to Stockholm, Oslo, and Eugene, was a highlight of her season. “No matter where I go, the amount of flags I saw in the stands… I think that will be the highlight of my season this year.”
Sports Minister Kenson Casimir joined in the homecoming celebrations, praising Alfred’s resilience and dedication. “On many occasions, we as Saint Lucians sometimes do not get an opportunity to sit back and internalize greatness,” Casimir said.
He lauded Alfred for overcoming injury and pressure, noting that she “carried Saint Lucia on her back… and brought home a global bronze medal to Saint Lucia.”
Despite the setback in the 200-meter event, Alfred’s achievement has solidified her status as one of Saint Lucia’s most celebrated athletes, inspiring a new generation of sports enthusiasts. The country’s support, evident in the enthusiastic reception at Hewanorra International Airport, underscored the national pride in her remarkable feat.
