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.
The Corps and Friends Can Cook International Food Fair has been cancelled.Underwhelming ticket sales has led the Office of the President to make this difficult decision. Her Excellency deeply regrets any disappointment or inconvenience caused.REFUNDSOnline ticket purchases will be refunded to the credit card holder within 3 to 5 business days. For those who purchased tickets at Queen’s Hall Box Office, refunds will be available from Monday, April 29th, between the hours of 10:00 am and 6:00 pm. ... See MoreSee Less
Continuing their School Tour Programme, Their Excellencies Christine Carla Kangaloo ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and Kerwyn Garcia SC, First Gentleman, visited 4 schools in the St. Patrick Education District on Friday last.Santa Flora Anglican Primary, Palo Seco Open Bible Kindergarten, Palo Seco Secondary and Santa Flora Government Primary. Their Excellencies chatted one on one with many of the youngsters at each school, asking about their experiences and also informing the students about the roles and responsibilities of the President. At their first stop, Santa Flora Anglican Primary, also known as St. Cyprian's Anglican, Their Excellencies were even on time to witness the finish of a 3k road race in which students from area schools competed. Their Excellencies then presented the top three finishers with their trophies.This visit to schools is the third such undertaken by Their Excellencies. In January, Their Excellencies visited schools in Matelot and Grande Riviere while in March Their Excellencies visited schools in Preysal. ... See MoreSee Less
His Excellency Fabrizio Nicoletti, Ambassador of the Italian Republic presented his credentials to Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago this morning at President's House. ... See MoreSee Less
His Excellency Cecil Toendepi Chinenere, Ambassador of the Republic of Zimbabwe presented his Letters of Credence to Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo ORTT, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago last Friday at President’s House. ... See MoreSee Less
