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Alleyne Francique of Grenada retired last week and in the process wrote a very classy “Thank You” note to his Federation and fans. That is class. Most coaches never get anything when an athlete retires, or when they switch coaches.
Alleyne Francique is a double gold medalist from the 2004 and 2006 World Indoor Championships 400 meters. He also finished 4th at the 2004 Athens Olympics, plus a silver medal at the 2006 Commonwealth Games.
Here is a copy of that letter from grenadabroadcast.com:
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
Jimson Lee
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