Dominica names Thea Lafond as new international sports ambassador  

Dominica: Prime Minister Dr Roosevelt Skerrit announced Thea Lafond as the new ambassador for international sports during his address at the Celebration concert on Sunday.

Apart from being honored as the ambassador of international sports, the 30-year-old athlete has also been awarded a cash prize of $400,000 and diplomatic passports for her and her husband.

PM Skerrit called Thea the ‘Golden Girl’ and announced to honor her with The Dominica Award. He further announced the construction of a new Track and Field Complex under her name.

He stated that, “We have made designs and also finalized the locations for the development of the new complex for track and field athletes which will be named Thea Lafond-Gadson Track and Field Complex on completion.”

The Prime Minster then went on to state the great reminder that Thea’s victory has given to the authorities.

“Your win is a powerful reminder for us to invest more in our youth and sports for the welfare of the community. we have provided several facilities and investments and wish to do even more for our people,” PM Skerrit said.

Apart from this, the Prime Minister also announced to present her with ‘The Dominica Award of Honour’ during this year’s independence ceremony where she will be the special guest.

He also said that a piece of land in Warner will also be provided to the athlete comprising approximately 7459 sqft. The PM added that this piece of land will offer spectacular views of the sea and mountains.

Notably, other participants of the Paris Olympics including Denik Luke, Warren Lawrence, and Jasmine Schofield will also receive a cash prize of $20,000 each.

PM Skerrit thanked Thea for this achievement while highlighting that the nation stands with her. He noted, “Thank you for shining bright, and thank you for reminding us that no dream is too big and no goal is too high and no accomplishment is out of our reach.”

“Dominica Celebrates you, we are proud of you and continue to cheer you so you bring a second gold medal,” he added.

Citizens are also extending their wishes to the athlete for her success. Many have applauded her victory on social media while calling her as Dominica’s pride.

Faustin Baron, one of the users said, “That was a well-deserved package for now and a futuristic dream. Thea, you are truly Dominica’s pride”

Another user noted that, “Congrats to all our Olympians, and double congrats to Thea, our golden girl, our Pride. Great celebration!!! Well-deserved recognition all around!!!”

“A great picture on Dominica ‘s map it’s getting greater and greater congratulations Ms. Lafond” Mellt Powell stated.

Notably, Thea Lafond upon her arrival at the Douglas Charles Airport in Dominica was greeted by Housing Minister Melissa Skerrit, Minister of Tourism Denise Charles, and several other officials.

The celebration was then followed up by a motorcade and a celebration ceremony in the evening. Thea Lafond upon her victory thanked all the authorities, her family, and friends and hailed out loudly “to all my fellow Dominicans, We did it! We did it!”