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Saint Lucia’s first-ever Olympic gold medallist teams up with BodyHoliday

13 Sep 2024 Julien Alfred was recently crowned Saint Lucia’s first-ever Olympic medallist at the 2024 games in Paris after her victory in the Women's 100m finals. Now, Saint Lucia-based destination wellness resort BodyHoliday has tapped Alfred for an exclusive retreat.

After racking up both a gold and silver medal at the Olympics, the 23-year-old sprinter has struck up a deal with BodyHoliday to act as a guest presenter for one week to host its signature WellFit programme.

The retreat will take place in 2025, with dates yet to be confirmed.

“We’re incredibly honoured to welcome Julien Alfred to the BodyHoliday family,” said Andrew Barnard, company CEO.

“Julien’s remarkable achievement at the Paris Olympics has not only made her a national treasure but also a global inspiration. Her dedication, discipline and passion align perfectly with our mission to empower our guests to achieve their personal best. We look forward to offering our guests this unique chance to learn from a true champion.”

According to BodyHoliday, Alfred prepared for her Olympic debut with a stay at its Saint Lucia flagship with personalised fitness programmes, specialist guidance and spa treatments.

Alfred commented: “I’m thrilled to partner with BodyHoliday and share my Olympic journey and training insights with their guests.

“This collaboration is a fantastic opportunity to inspire others on their fitness and wellness journeys while supporting my foundation’s mission to uplift the next generation of athletes and give back to the community.”

To celebrate Alfred's milestone achievement, the Saint Lucian government has recently announced a national holiday will take place on 27 September in her honour.

Olympic takeover
As fitness remains a top priority for many wellness consumers, an increasing number of operators are starting to collaborate with high-profile athletes and Olympians to enhance wellness programming and attract fitness enthusiasts.

For example, Aman recently appointed tennis superstar Novak Djokovic as its first global wellness advisor.

The move follows the brand’s successful appointment of Maria Sharapova as a global wellness ambassador in 2023. The collaboration with Aman is ongoing, with Sharapova hosting exclusive retreats.

Her next event, Building resilience, a Maria Sharapova retreat, will be hosted in Greece from 23 to 26 September, while Sharapova’s half-day strength and recovery programme is currently available as part of Aman New York's daily spa programming.