Dominica is pulling out all the stops to celebrate its first-ever Olympic medalist, Thea LaFond Gadson, who made history by winning gold in the triple jump at the recently concluded Paris Olympics. Thea’s victory not only marks the first Olympic medal for the tiny Caribbean island of approximately 50,000 people but also follows her earlier achievement of winning Dominica’s first global medal—a gold in the triple jump at the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow this March.
In recognition of her historic accomplishments, Dominica’s Minister of State in the Ministry of Youth, Culture, Sports, and Community, Oscar George, has announced a series of celebratory events set to take place from August 24 to September 4, 2024, to honour Thea and her fellow Olympians Dennick Luke, Warren Lawrence, and Jasmine Scofield, who also represented the nation in Paris.
The celebrations will kick off on Saturday, August 24, with Thea’s arrival at Douglas Charles Airport at 2 pm. A welcome ceremony will be held at the VIP Lounge, where government officials, dignitaries, and family members will gather to greet the Olympic champion. This event will set the tone for the days of festivities to follow, as the island nation comes together to honour their national hero.
On Sunday, August 25, the festivities continue with a motorcade starting at 1:30 pm in Portsmouth, traveling along the scenic west coast to Rousseau. This event will offer the public a chance to show their appreciation for Thea as she makes her way to the capital city. The day will culminate in a grand celebration ceremony and concert at Windsor Park Stadium in Forecourt at 4 pm, featuring speeches from government and sports officials, as well as musical performances. The public is warmly invited to attend and participate in the celebration of Thea’s historic achievement.
Thea’s week of honour will also include a courtesy call to the Honourable Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerritt on Tuesday, August 27. An official cocktail reception in her honour is scheduled for the evening of Wednesday, August 28 at the State House Conference Centre.
Throughout her stay in Dominica, Thea will visit various primary and secondary schools, as well as the Dominica State College, where she will engage with students and inspire the next generation of athletes and leaders. Her presence and words of encouragement are expected to leave a lasting impact on the youth of Dominica, motivating them to pursue their dreams with the same determination and dedication that led Thea to Olympic gold.
Minister George expressed the nation’s pride and joy in Thea’s achievements, stating, "The government and people of Dominica look forward to celebrating Thea’s remarkable success at the Paris Olympics, an achievement that has brought immense pride and joy to our nation."
As the island prepares to welcome Thea LaFond Gadson home, the celebrations promise to be a fitting tribute to an athlete who has not only made history but has also united a nation in pride and admiration.