Huge crowd welcomes Duffy home

Owain Johnston-Barnes

Published Apr 27, 2018 at 8:00 am (Updated Apr 26, 2018 at 11:18 pm)

Returning hero: Flora Duffy tells massive crowd about her excitement at competing on home soil (Photograph by Akil Simmons)

Several hundred celebrated the official launch of the MS Amlin Bermuda World Triathlon Festival Weekend last night.

A packed Front Street welcomed Commonwealth champion Flora Duffy back to the island.

Interviewed on stage by emcee Nadanja Bailey, Ms Duffy said she felt overwhelmed about the opportunity to race in her home country.

She said: “I know it’s a big deal, racing on home soil. My picture is everywhere. It is overwhelming to be me at the moment.”

Michael Weeks, the Minister of Social Development and Sport, described the event as historic.

He said: “By hosting this event, we will once again show the world that while we are just a little dot in the Atlantic Ocean, we are indeed world leaders.”

Calling Ms Duffy the queen of the triathlon world, he said: “Rain or shine, no doubt all of Bermuda will be lining the course to give their support to her and all of the participants.”

Kevin Dallas, chief executive of the Bermuda Tourism Authority, said the event was all about achievement.

He said: “It’s about achievement for Flora and for our athletes. It’s about achievement for our young people.

“This weekend is also about Bermuda hosting another world- class event a year after the America’s Cup.”

John Rankin, the Governor, said the island should be proud of bringing the event to Bermuda and making it a success.

He said: “This is a wonderful place. A first-class tourism and sporting destination.

“Like all of you, I hugely enjoyed watching the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast earlier this month, and in particular seeing Flora Duffy win Bermuda’s first gold medal at the games in 20 years.

“Flora, we are looking forward to seeing you compete on your home turf as not only a two-time champion, but also as a gold medallist. You are an inspiration.”

Marisol Casado, president of the International Triathlon Union, came on stage wearing Bermuda shorts and thanked the crowd for their support.

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