ATHLETIC LEGACY: WHY ALFRED DESERVES A STADIUM, NOT A HIGHWAY?

The George Odlum Stadium has stood as a makeshift hospital for over 13 years, a reminder of the tragic fire that devastated St. Jude Hospital. Now, with plans to renovate both St. Jude and give the stadium a much-needed facelift, there’s an opportunity to rethink how we honor national heroes. While discussions are ongoing about naming the Millennium Highway after Olympian Julien Alfred, I argue that a sports facility like George Odlum Stadium would be a more fitting tribute to her.

Julien Alfred has put Saint Lucia on the world map with her gold medal victory at the Paris 2024 Olympics, symbolizing excellence in sports. It’s only logical that sports facilities, where the next generation of athletes will train, bear her name.    

Key Points to Consider:

  Symbol of Inspiration: Julien Alfred's gold medal victory at the Olympics has inspired countless young athletes in Saint Lucia. Naming a sports facility after her would serve as a constant reminder of her accomplishments and motivate future generations to strive for greatness.

  Legacy and Recognition: Renaming the George Odlum Stadium after Julien Alfred would solidify her legacy as one of Saint Lucia's most celebrated athletes. It would also provide a fitting tribute to her hard work, dedication, and talent.

  Alignment with Sports Facilities: Naming sports facilities after athletes is a common practice, reflecting the connection between the facility and the individual's achievements. This would create a more cohesive and meaningful naming convention for sports infrastructure in Saint Lucia.

  Alternative Options for George Odlum: While the Millennium Highway is a suitable option for recognizing George Odlum's contributions, other public spaces or institutions could also be considered. This would ensure that his legacy is appropriately honored while allowing for a more fitting tribute to Julien Alfred.

Athletes should be honored in spaces where their legacy can inspire others in their field. Naming a stadium, particularly one central to sports in Saint Lucia, after Julien Alfred would not only celebrate her achievements but also ensure her legacy in athletics is preserved in a way that resonates with future athletes. . 

Renaming the George Odlum Stadium after Julien Alfred would be a fitting and inspiring choice in sports while reserving the Millennium Highway for George Odlum’s legacy in politics.   It would not only recognize her exceptional athletic achievements but also serve as a symbol of hope and motivation for future generations. By honoring her contributions in this way, Saint Lucia can celebrate its sporting heroes and inspire young athletes to reach for their dreams.