Prime Minister congratulates Grenada team via telephone

Prime Minister celebrates with the people of Gouyave

ST.GEORGE’S, GRENADA, AUGUST 25th 2011 – In a telephone conversation today, Prime Minister Tillman Thomas congratulated Kirani James and the Grenada team to the IAAF World Championships in Daegu, South Korea.

He is the youngest person in history to win the IAAF 400M.

“You have made all of Grenada proud, there are celebrations everywhere, especially in your home town. We know your talent and we are looking forward to greater things,” the Prime Minister told Kirani James.

He told Coach Albert Joseph, Coach Harvey Glance, Rondell and the President of the Grenada Amateur Athletic Association, Charlie George his government will continue to give the necessary support ensure the development of “our national athletes.”

Overwhelmed by her son’s success and the public response

The Prime Minister said he is “looking forward” to the medal ceremony on Thursday, September 1st, 2011, at 7.00AM Grenada time (8.00pm Korea time). The Grenada flag will be hoisted and the national anthem played while Kirani receives his gold medal.

It will be a double celebration for the 18 year old Kirani as he will also be celebrating his birthday on that day. Following the win, the Prime Minister paid a visit to Kirani’s hometown of Gouyave on Grenada’s west coast, to celebrate with his parents. Bells, whistles, conch shells, drums, whatever could make a sound, were on display as residents jumped and chanted in the streets.

Accompanied by Kirani’s mother and a large number of celebrating fans, the Prime Minister was taken to their home.

“This is a very proud moment for you and we celebrate with you this significant achievement,” Mr. Thomas told Kirani’s mother.