Three of St Lucia’s most celebrated athletes, Julien Alfred, Daren Sammy, and Levern Spencer, have been conferred with the prestigious St Lucia Cross (SLC) in recognition of their distinguished service in sports. The announcement was made over the weekend as part of the nation’s Independence Day celebrations.

The honours, granted by His Excellency the Governor General as Chancellor of the Order of St Lucia on the advice of the Prime Minister, acknowledge the trio’s immense contributions to the country’s sporting legacy. The official investiture ceremony is scheduled for March.

At the Paris 2024 Olympics, Alfred stunned the world with her 100m victory, clocking a national record of 10.72 seconds in the final. She then followed up with a silver medal in the 200m, further elevating St Lucia’s status in global athletics. Earlier in 2024, she claimed the 60m gold medal at the World Athletics Indoor Championships.

The young sprinting sensation also holds a silver medal from the 2022 Commonwealth Games and has set multiple records throughout her NCAA career, becoming the first woman in NCAA history to break the seven-second barrier in the 60m event.

Sammy, the current head coach of the West Indies cricket team in all formats, has been recognized for his significant contributions to cricket and youth development. Sammy made history in 2004 when he became the first St Lucian to play international cricket, making his One-Day International (ODI) debut against Bangladesh.

His Test debut in 2007 was equally historic, as he claimed figures of 7/66 against England, the best bowling performance by a West Indian on debut since Alf Valentine in 1950. As captain, Sammy led the West Indies to victory in the ICC World Twenty20 tournaments in 2012 and 2016, making him the only captain to win the T20 World Cup twice. He was also part of the West Indies team that won the 2004 ICC Champions Trophy.

Beyond his playing career, Sammy has played a crucial role in the development of cricket in St Lucia and the wider Caribbean, inspiring a new generation of players and proving that talent from small island nations can make a global impact.

Levern Spencer’s remarkable career in athletics has earned her one of St Lucia’s highest honours. The high jumper, who hails from Cacao Babonneau, represented St Lucia in four Olympic Games and eight World Championships, consistently showcasing excellence on the international stage.

Among her many achievements, Spencer won gold at both the Commonwealth Games and the Pan American Games, bringing pride and recognition to her homeland. Her longevity and dedication to high jump have made her one of the most respected athletes from the Caribbean.

The recognition of Alfred, Sammy, and Spencer highlights the strength of St Lucia’s sporting talent and the impact these athletes have had both locally and internationally. Their achievements serve as an inspiration for young athletes across the island, proving that dedication and perseverance can lead to global success.

As St Lucia continues to celebrate its independence, honouring these sports icons is a fitting tribute to their remarkable careers and lasting legacy.