Bermuda’s leaders praise Flora Duffy’s historic gold medal
A national celebration awaits gold medal winner Flora Duffy on her return home from last night’s triumph in Tokyo.
David Burt, the Premier, declared that all of Bermuda looked forward to commemorating the island’s second-ever Olympic win and the first gold.
“Words almost cannot do justice to such an incredible effort from an incredible athlete,” he said.
“This remarkable achievement is a true testament to Flora’s unwavering commitment and genuine perseverance in training and preparation. Bermuda is bursting with pride and admiration for this humble champion.”
The Premier’s words were echoed by Ernest Peets, the Minister of Youth, Culture and Sport.
Dr Peets said the island’s sporting community was “united in saluting this amazing Olympic victory”.
He added: “Every athlete must be inspired by what we saw in Tokyo today.
“Flora Duffy is a sporting giant and Bermuda could not be more proud of her and her success.”
Walter Roban, the Deputy Premier, said it was “beyond words to finally witness Bermuda winning gold at the Olympics”.
“Flora has made us all proud,” he said.
Cole Simons, the Leader of the Opposition, hailed the "proud moment for Bermuda's own Flora Duffy“ in coming first in the Tokyo 2020 women’s triathlon.
Mr Simons said: “Watching Flora's outstanding race, I know I can speak on behalf of all Bermudians that we are bursting with pride.
“Indeed we ran along side of you, step by step, even as you lapped others. What a performance.
“Flora Duffy, you will continue to inspire upcoming local and international athletes both now and for generations to come.”
Mr Simons offered congratulations to Ms Duffy, her parents and family, and to “friends here and around the world”.
He added: “As a nation, we stand to give you a rousing standing ovation and thank you for your consistent commitment to excellence.”
Charles Gosling, Mayor of Hamilton, said: “Like many Bermudians, my family and I watched with pride as Flora stormed to victory to win the Women’s Triathlon last night.
“To watch her break away on the run was an absolutely euphoric moment.”
Mr Gosling added: “To send her our congratulations does not even begin to express our thanks for representing Bermuda so exceptionally and for all her hard work and dedication to the sport.
“She is a role model to us all – a hero to our young, aspiring athletes – and I know she will be recognised as such upon her return to Bermuda.”
Social media was also flooded with praise for the Bermudian, with sports figures and people from across the community revelling in her success, often with a Bermuda twist.
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