The NDC joins with fellow Grenadians and people around the world in saluting and celebrating Kirani James on his extraordinary achievement of winning a bronze medal, his third Olympic medal in as many games in the 400 meters. Kirani is the only person in the history of the Olympics to achieve a medal hattrick in the 400 meters.
Indeed, yet another gracious and timely tonic of inspiration from Kirani that unites all Grenadian citizens.
Thursday, August 5th, just after 8 in the morning we shall all remember - what a joyous day of happiness Kirani’s Olympic medal brought to the Isle of Spice!
The joy of yet another Olympic medal for our tiny nation, could not come at a better time, when stress levels are high, as many are experiencing hardship as a result of the impact of the pandemic and the general mismanagement of our economy.
NDC also celebrates and congratulates Lindon Victor on his magnificent performance in the decathlon, the event is one of the greatest tests of mental and physical fortitude in sports. Placing 7th was no easy feat. Lindon is truly a giant among giants.
The commendable showing of our other athletes: Anderson Peters, Meleni Rodney, Delron Felix and Kimberly Ince was a source of pride for all of us and inspiration for our young people. The celebrations in villages everywhere and the thousands of posts on social media, congratulating Kirani not only on his historic sporting feat, but also on the personal challenges he overcame, confirm Kirani as being one of the greatest Grenadian representatives in the nation’s history.
NDC is committed to unlocking the prowess and hidden talents in our young people. As the government in-waiting, we commit to providing an Olympic-sized swimming pool for our athletes and at least 3 other athletic tracks together with gym facilities, strategically placed, including on the island of Carriacou.
NDC extends special thanks and recognition to Kirani’s coach, Mr. Harvey Glance for his stewardship. The former American Olympic sprint medalist has worked with him from his first Olympics to this one. The community of Gouyave and coach Albert Joseph, who worked with him during his teenage years and nurtured him as a world junior champion must also be credited.
Congratulations to coach Paul Phillip, who has taken Anderson Peters from Intercol to the Olympics.
Kirani’s legacy in Olympic history is assured. Generations to come will be fascinated and inspired reading about his three successive Olympic medals, his first at the age of 19. As a people, we must commit to put in place the correct tools, including facilities and coaches, so that those inspired by him, can bring glory to our beloved land.