The Government of Dominica has celebrated Thea Lafond-Gadson’s historic gold medal win at the 2024 Paris Olympics with a series of significant honors and awards. Lafond-Gadson, who made history as Dominica’s first Olympic gold medalist, was warmly welcomed back to her home country with a grand ceremony that included her husband and coach, as well as her parents, Anestine and Dorian Lafond.

Upon her arrival, Lafond-Gadson was greeted with a festive motorcade from Portsmouth to Roseau, which was followed by a cultural celebration at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium’s Forecourt. Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit addressed the crowd, expressing the government’s pride in its long-term investments in youth, sports, and education. Skerrit emphasized the government’s commitment to further supporting these areas.

In his speech, Skerrit outlined plans to build a new facility for track and field athletes, acknowledging Lafond-Gadson’s desire for such a venue. The synthetic track will be named the Thea LaFond-Gadson Track & Field Complex upon completion. Skerrit assured that the development of this facility is a top priority for the government.

To honor Lafond-Gadson’s extraordinary achievement, the government announced several awards. She will receive a cash prize of $400,000 and be appointed as Sports Ambassador, with a diplomatic passport granted to both her and her husband. Additionally, she will be awarded Dominica’s highest honor, the Dominica Award of Honour (DAH), during the Independence celebrations. Lafond-Gadson will also receive a 7,459-square-foot plot in the Future Housing Project, which offers stunning sea and mountain views.

Skerrit expressed deep pride in Lafond-Gadson’s accomplishment, stating that her gold medal win has inspired national pride and unity. He praised her for demonstrating the best qualities of Dominica, including resilience and determination. Skerrit highlighted that her success serves as a powerful example of what can be achieved with hard work and perseverance, underscoring the nation’s belief in the potential for greatness despite challenges.

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the crucial support provided by Lafond-Gadson’s family, coach, and mentors, including Mr. Billy Doctrove and the teams at the Dominica Olympic Committee and the Dominica Amateur Athletics Association. Their contributions were integral to her success, Skerrit noted.

Lafond-Gadson, who arrived at the event using crutches due to a pre-Olympic injury that required surgery, expressed her gratitude and honor at representing Dominica. She conveyed that the warm reception from her fellow Dominicans further motivated her.

In addition, Skerrit announced that three other Dominican athletes—Dennick Luke, Warren Lawrence, and Jasmine Schofield—would each receive a grant of EC$20,000 in recognition of their contributions to sports.

Skerrit concluded his remarks by celebrating Lafond-Gadson’s achievements and emphasizing the importance of continued investment in the country’s youth and sports programs. He affirmed that Dominica stands as a nation where dreams can become reality through dedication and effort.