Last Updated on August 26, 2024, 7:02 AM AST by Anthony Morris
St Kitts and Nevis: Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew celebrates and recognises Kim Collins Day that he has built for St Kitts and Nevis, and for the entire Caribbean on August 25th.
Twenty-one years ago, on August 25, Kim Collins captured the gold in the 100m at the IAFF World Championship in Paris. This achievement made Collins the first Caribbean athlete to earn this title, creating legacy in the sports sector.
Kim holds a national record of 9.93 seconds in the 100m even today, and at the age of 40, he became the first man in history to run under 10 seconds in the 100 meters.
Sharing Kim’s picture on his official social media, PM Terrance Drew noted that on this day in 2003, Kim Collins cemented his place in the history by becoming the IAAF World Champion in the 100 meters and the nation celebrates him and his incredible legacy.
PM Drew additionally stated how Kim Collins has earned his victory through hard work and dedication. He remains a source of immense pride for St Kitts and Nevis, and serves as a shining example for other athletes as well.
Minister of Sports, et al., Samal Duggins also took his Facebook to highlight the achievement of Kim Collins and called him a ‘true sports icon.’
He stated that twenty-one years ago today, August 25th, 2003, the entire nation held its breath as Kim Collins sprinted into history, claiming victory in the men’s 100M at the World Championship in Paris.
He also mentioned that the victory of Kim was not just a win for St Kitts and Nevis, but a proud moment for the entire Caribbean.
Notably, the impact of Collins extends far beyond his personal achievements. He has been a mentor and an inspiration to several young athletes, especially in St Kitts and Nevis.
Along with this, his participation in five Olympic Games is a feat that a few can claim. Remarkably, the National Track and Field Stadium was rightfully named as the Kim Collins Athletic Stadium in his honour.
He was also the most voted among the 15 nominees around the world for the IAAF Athletes’ Commission back in 2017.
Kim Collins’ contributions to the sports and global athletics community continue till date and the entire St Kitts and Nevis continues to celebrate him every year.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
