Keshorn Walcott threw 84.58m in the men's javelin to win his nation their first Olympic gold in field events.
His reward came in the shape of £100,000, a luxury home, around 20,000 acres of land - and a lighthouse.
Walcott, who set a national record with his throw, will also have a Caribbean Airlines plane named after him.
The 19-year-old, from the tiny farming village of Toco, became the first non-European to win the men's javelin since American Cy Young in 1952.
This is the house Keshorn grew up in |
He returned home on Monday to Trinidad's Piarco International Airport, where thousands dressed in the national colours of red, black and white greeted him.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar had declared Monday a national holiday after the victory - only the second Olympic gold in Trinidad and Tobago's history following Hasley Crawford's victory in the men's 100m at the 1976 Olympics in Montreal.
Walcott, who is the reigning world junior champion, said: "I was proud to carry the flag of Trinidad and Tobago. Thanks to everyone for all the support and thanks to Mum and Dad, my brothers and sister."
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar had declared Monday a national holiday after the victory - only the second Olympic gold in Trinidad and Tobago's history following Hasley Crawford's victory in the men's 100m at the 1976 Olympics in Montreal.
Walcott, who is the reigning world junior champion, said: "I was proud to carry the flag of Trinidad and Tobago. Thanks to everyone for all the support and thanks to Mum and Dad, my brothers and sister."
Keshorn did well. We all are very proud of him.
ReplyDeleteHe looked like a very determined young man and I can see that his future is very bright. Well done.
ReplyDeleteIndeed!
DeleteFrom rags to riches. I just love it!!! Proud Trinbagonian :)
ReplyDelete