As the 2024 Paris Olympics approach, St Lucia finds itself on the brink of a historic milestone. The island nation, which first participated in the Olympics at the 1996 Atlanta Games, has yet to secure its first Olympic medal. However, this summer's games offer a unique opportunity for Saint Lucia to rewrite its Olympic history.

 St Lucia's journey in the Olympics began with the establishment of their National Olympic Committee on January 22, 1987, which received official recognition from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in September 1993. Since their debut in Atlanta in 1996, St Lucia has competed in every subsequent Olympic Games, displaying their emerging talents on the global stage.

 The island's first Olympic team in 1996 consisted of six members who competed in athletics and sailing. The athletics team included Michelle Baptiste, Ivan Jn. Marie, Maxwell Seales, Dominic Johnson, and Maxime Charlemagne, with Andrew Magloire serving as manager/coach. Michael Greene led the sailing team, with Michael Gordon as manager/coach and Abigail Williams as chef de mission.

 Greene, the oldest athlete at 42, made history as the first to represent St Lucia in the men's laser event on July 23. Meanwhile, 18-year-old Michelle Baptiste, the lone female athlete and flag bearer, competed in the 100m and long jump, representing her country with pride despite not advancing to the finals.

Levern Spencer

 St Lucia has continued to send athletes to the Olympics, with notable performances along the way. In the 2012 London Olympics, a team of four competed in athletics, sailing, and swimming. The 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics saw a team of five participate in these same sports. High jumper Levern Spencer stands out as a remarkable athlete for the island nation. A four-time Olympian, Spencer came tantalizingly close to winning the country's first medal in 2016, finishing sixth in the high jump with a clearance of 1.93m.

 As the Paris 2024 Olympics draw near, St Lucia's hopes are pinned on a talented team led by World Indoor champion for the women’s 60m dash, Julien Alfred. Alfred's speed and determination make her a strong contender for a medal. Michael Joseph will compete in the men’s 400m, sailor Luc Chevrier will represent the island in the men’s dinghy, and swimmer Jayhan Odlum Smith will contest the men’s 100m freestyle. Leading Team St Lucia as Chef De Mission is former national athlete Helena Renee-Emmanuel.

 The upcoming 2024 Paris Olympic Games provide Saint Lucia with another chance to shine on the world stage. With a talented and determined team, the island nation is poised to make history. As St Lucia aims for its first Olympic medal, the excitement and anticipation build, offering a glimmer of hope for a historic achievement in Paris.