Bermuda’s Olympic ‘Golden Girl’, Flora Duffy touched down for a heroes welcome home on Monday (Oct 11) to be greeted by thousands of residents who lined the streets to cheer her motorcade from the airport.
The Olympic Gold medalist was officially greeted at the Cabinet Office by Premier David Burt and Dr Ernest Peets, the Minister of Youth, Culture and Sport, before moving on to City Hall, where she was presented with Keys to the City.
Minister Peets, opened his remarks saying: “It gives me great pleasure to officially welcome home one of the most accomplished and outstanding athletes in Bermuda’s history – our ‘Golden Girl’, Flora Duffy.
“This in incredible occasion for every Bermudian, here and around the world.
“Flora, your accomplishment is nothing short of extraordinary, it was with great joy and pride we joined a global audience as you achieved Gold at the Tokyo Summer Olympics.
“As a country, against the backdrop of the challenges that we’ve been living through, Flora you have truly given us tremendous joy and immense pride, and we salute your resilience and amazing achievement,” said Dr Peets.
“Not only have you inspired an entire country but you have proven what is possible, and you have left such a positive impression on so many young athlete who look to you as a role model.
“You are a shining example of what can be accomplished with determination, commitment and dedication.
“So Flora, today we honour you. I hope that you enjoy everything that this welcome home has to offer.
“The accolades, the commendations, the recognition – savour it and take it all in.
“Because you have earned it. You have worked hard for it.”
The Minister concluded: “You are a champion who carries herself with grace, humility, integrity and dignity, and we are so pleased that we are able to give something back to you, for all that you have given us.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Youth, Culture and Sport congratulations again and I wish you nothing but continued success in the next chapter of your amazing journey.”
