Those who know me can testify that I am passionate about sports. Throughout my athletic career, it was never about winning at all costs; rather, it was about fulfilling my potential. Whenever I found myself on the starting blocks, I was never thinking about getting one over my opponents. I was always focused on bettering myself as an athlete and most importantly, as a human being. That was the essence of why I competed.
As a professional athlete, I have always been aware that the time would
come for me to begin another chapter of my life. That time has come and
I look forward to exciting new challenges that lie ahead.
I would like to take this opportunity to inform the Grenada Athletic
Association and the Grenada Olympic Committee of my decision to retire
from all athletic competitions and to say thank you for their support.
I also would like to say a special thank you to various persons who
have supported me unwaveringly throughout my athletic career.
First of all, thank you to all the teachers and coaches who dedicated
themselves to the channeling and improvement of my talent and
especially to the staff of Tivoli R.C. School, St Andrews Anglican
Secondary School, T.A. Marryshow Community College, Essex County
College and Louisiana State University who have coached me through
several Intercol Championships, two National records, 7 NCAA All
American Titles, Commonwealth and Pan American medals and 2 World
Indoor Championship Gold Medals.
Much love and respect to my supporters for their constant support
during my struggle to uplift, educate, enlighten and entertain. To my
managers, I wish them God’s richest blessings. Thanks also to all my
training partners for their assistance and inspiration, may their
dreams and aspirations become reality. Thanks to all my friends and
family for being there physically, emotionally and for the way they
helped me to find the truth about myself. Special and heartfelt thanks
to Akima, my moms Ann Francique and Kathlyn Olive, my dad Aden
Alexander, the rest of the Francique family, Coach Henry, Ms. Henry,
Coach Smart, Conrad, Ricky and Marion, and my trusted friends on the
“block” in Conference.
I have represented Grenada for the last thirteen years of my career and
it is now time to hand over the baton to our next generation of
athletes. May you make your country proud.
Thanks as Always,
Alleyne J. Francique, OBE
Minister of Sports, Patrick Simmons MP, comments on Alleyne's retirement. Click
here to listen
