“An incredibly proud day for Bermudians”, is how Sports Minister Michael Weeks described triathlon champion Flora Duffy’s win yesterday in the Elite Women’s Race at the MS Amlin World FTriathlon Bermuda.
“I think anyone who was there on Saturday shared in something very special,” said Minister Weeks.
“The atmosphere was absolutely electrifying and my heart was pounding from the moment that Flora and the other athletes first hit the water.”
He also thanked “all those residents who cheered her on” throughout the race on Saturday.
“I can still hear the chant ‘Go Flora, Go’ in my head,” Mr Weeks said. “I was proud of all of you for showing our hometown champion so much love.
“The streets were lined with islanders cheering her on – with flags and homemade banners – from Queen Street to Corkscrew Hill.
“Thank you to the organizers and also to sponsor MS Amlin for making this awesome event happen right here in our backyard; it was a special moment for me, particularly, as the Minister responsible for Sports.
“I also want to congratulate all of the other competitors who took part in the various races this weekend; training for a triathlon is certainly not for the faint of heart!
“On behalf of the people of Bermuda, the Minister, along with Bermuda’s first Commonwealth Games Gold Medalist, Clarence ‘Nicky’ Saunders (high jump) presented flowers donated by GiMi to Flora yesterday after her win.”
Photo Courtesy of Mike Jones
Minister Weeks added: “I encourage everyone to come out tomorrow, Monday April 30, to support Flora and Clarence ‘Nicky’ Saunders as they take part in a motorcade which leaves the Hamilton Princess Hotel and Beach Club at 11:30am, makes its way along Pitts Bay Road, turns up Queen Street, makes a right along Church Street and then another right down Court Street, concluding on the grounds of cabinet at approximately 12 Noon.
“Choose your vantage point, and come show these two champions how proud we all are.”
Prermier Burt wrote: “Congratulations to Flora, all the medalists, and thanks to the organisers, volunteers and sponsors for a great event.
“I also played golf this morning to support fundraising efforts for Constituency 29 to continue the work that they and the @voteplp branch does in the community.
“Great Job Flora you made your country proud 🏊🏽♀️🚴🏾♂️🏃🏽♀️”