Prime Minister Hails Alia Atkinson and Nicholas Walters as Outstanding Jamaicans

Prime Minister the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller has hailed Alia Atkinson, Olympian Swimmer and Nicholas ‘The Axeman’ Walters, WBA Featherweight World Champion, as outstanding Jamaicans who have brought great esteem to the country.

At a cocktail reception held at Vale Royal on Wednesday, January 14 where Atkinson and Walters were guests of honour, Prime Minister Simpson Miller stated that Jamaica’s prowess in sport dates back to several decades and the country continues to make great waves across the length and breadth of the globe.

In her toast to Alia, the Prime Minister said accomplishing the feat of equaling the world record in the 100 metre breast stroke at the FINA World Short Course Championship in Doha, Qatar in December has brought immense and unspeakable joy to Jamaicans all over the world.  “Jamaica is proud of you: a young Jamaican woman with the great courage of Nanny. You are the face of swimming, the myth breaker, the trendsetter, the role model for young girls and boys who will follow your lead to conquer the pool and claim gold,” she said.

Prime Minister Simpson Miller who also saluted Nicholas said his resolve and determination to become the first Jamaican to win a World Boxing Association title on home soil was a proud moment for Jamaica. “You are truly a reflection of what it means to be ‘little but tallawah’. We congratulate you on all your achievements and look forward to bigger and greater things for you and from you,” said the Prime Minister.

“Anywhere you go in the world there is a Jamaican doing great things. We are a people of talent and imagination.  A people of will and courage beyond measure.  A proud people. An outstanding nation,” the Prime Minister concluded.