Dominica: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit announces a grand celebration for Thea Lafond-Gadson’s homecoming after her historic win at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The Prime minister announced a warm welcome to the athlete and decided to honor her with a motorcade and a Celebration rally upon her arrival.
The motorcade will initiate from the Borough’s Square, Portsmouth to Roseau. Following this, the Celebration Rally will take place at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium Forecourt at 5:00 pm.
While detailing the planned events, PM Skerrit invited everyone to come and attend the celebration in order to celebrate the nation’s victory with the medal bearer herself.
Thea Lafond this year brought the first Olympic gold to Dominica with her win in the women’s triple jump. She showcased an outstanding performance at the sport’s biggest event while defeating Jamaica’s Shanieka Rickets and Jasmine Moore of the USA with a jump of 15.02 meters at the event.
Notably, upon her Olympic win, Thea also received a phone call from the Prime Minister, during which he thanked her for representing the nation on an international platform. PM Skerrit further noted that her dignity and grace at the sports event were a moment of pride for the people of Dominica.
While Thea Lafond herself on her win stated, “For us to be so tiny, but end up so mighty is the most phenomenal feeling”. She highlighted in her statement that Dominica’s population is so small while comparing it to that of the stadium where she performed.
Thea Lafond then noted that still being the smallest in population, her performance at the event left a huge impact on the audience and the globe making them search for Dominica. However, citizens are celebrating her success and eagerly await her arrival.
One of the social media comments said, “You really gave our little island Dominica a front-row seat on the world stage. So proud of you. I will be celebrating with you.”
Cheriyln Ettienne, one of the Facebook users stated that, “Well deserved, congrats Thea Lafond, you have done Dominica good, we will celebrate you in an awesome manner.”
“What a wonderful champion! Very happy for Dominica. Celebrate the legend” Pauline Montauban, another user mentioned.