Her Excellency Paula-Mae Weekes O.R.T.T. President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago joins with the nation in paying tribute to the inimitable Granny Luces, long distance runner extraordinaire and national hero who died today.
An active runner from childhood, Granny Luces rose to fame when she began competing in the Trinidad and Tobago Marathon, her age and silver hair earning her the affectionate moniker Granny Luces. Her athleticism in her senior years served as a defiant push-back against ageism particularly as it affects females in Trinidad and Tobago. She inspired many, both female and male, to take up long distance running. Indeed, the impetus for many a marathon participant to pick up the pace was “Don’t let Granny beat you!”
In addition to completing the TT Marathon and several other local long distance races many times, Granny also represented her country in seniors athletic meets around the world. Here in Trinidad, Granny was honoured by the Eastern Credit Union when in 1988 it established the Granny Luces Classic a 15k foot race along the Eastern Main Road which remains in existence today. Her accomplishments were also noted by her compatriots when she was awarded the Humming Bird Medal Gold in the sphere of Sport in 2013.
Her Excellency well remembers completing a few of the Trinidad and Tobago Marathons in which Granny also participated and remained in awe of Granny’s unfailing stamina and enduringly youthful spirit.
On behalf of a grateful nation and on her own behalf, President Weekes extends heartfelt condolences to the family, running fraternity and all citizens who held Granny Luces dear.
You have run well Granny, your time to rest in eternal peace is at hand. Thank you for inspiring a nation.
On Monday 16th December, 2024, Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago attended the annual Chief of Defence Staff Parade at Teteron Barracks, Chaguaramas. After receiving the salute, inspecting the parade and addressing the members of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force, Her Excellency took the time to engage with members of the Junior Enlisted Ranks, Senior Enlisted Advisors and Commissioned Officers.In her address, Her Excellency expressed deep gratitude for the dedication and service of the members of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force and thanked them for their professionalism, commitment and participation in various Office of the President and national initiatives. ... See MoreSee Less
Their Excellencies Christine Carla Kangaloo ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and Kerwyn Garcia, S.C., First Gentleman signed the condolence book in memory of the late Honourable Lisa Morris-Julian MP, Minister in the Ministry of Education, at the Rotunda of the Red House on Tuesday 17th December, 2024. In keeping with state protocol, Her Excellency was first to sign the condolence book, with His Excellency signing later on in the afternoon. Also present for the signing was Senator the Honourable Nigel de Freitas, President of the Senate, the Honourable Bridgid Annisette-George MP, Speaker of the House of Representatives and Mr. Esmond Forde MP, Deputy Speaker and Member of Parliament for Tunapuna. ... See MoreSee Less
The Office of the President joins the entire nation in expressing our deepest sadness at the tragic passing of the Honourable Lisa Morris-Julian , Member of Parliament for D’Abadie/O’Meara and her two relatives. As a nation unites in sorrow we pray their souls rest in eternal peace. ... See MoreSee Less
Mr. David Vere Warren West took the Oath of Office to be reappointed as a Director of the Police Complaints Authority before His Excellency, Nigel de Freitas, Acting President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, at a ceremony at the Office of the President, today, December 13, 2024.Mr. David West has been the Director of the Police Complaints Authority since November 2014. Having gained an Honours degree in Economics and Law from Brunel University in Middlesex in 1992, Mr. West went on to a Bachelor of Laws from the University of London (External) and a Legal Education Certificate from the Hugh Wooding Law School. After being called to the Bar of Trinidad and Tobago in 1996, Mr. West eventually became in 2000 the Senior Legal Executive in the Central Authority Unit of the Ministry of the Attorney General and Legal Affairs. From 2004 to 2008, he was the Head of the Unit before moving into private practice at El Dorado Chambers and then becoming the Director of the Police Complaints Authority in 2014.His Excellency Nigel de Freitas, Acting President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago thanked Mr. West for his continued service. ... See MoreSee Less
🌟 A Memorable Day for Scarborough Secondary at the President's House! 🇹🇹What an incredible day for the students of Scarborough Secondary School as they explored the historic President's House and its beautiful grounds today! 😍 The students and teachers were captivated as they learned about the 148-year history of the House, which was once a sugar plantation in the early 1800s. 🏰🌿The two groups toured the stunning Grand Ballroom, Sitting Room, and even the prestigious Credentials Room. To top it off, they had the honor of meeting His Excellency Nigel de Freitas, Acting President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago! ✨His Excellency was especially thrilled to welcome the students from Tobago and engaged them in a lively discussion about what they saw and learned during the tour. 📚💬What a memorable and educational experience for all! 🌟 #tobagostudents#presidentshouse#TrinidadAndTobagoHistory#educationaltrip#scarboroughsecondary#officeofthepresidentt... See MoreSee Less
