Above: Kirani James during his homecoming earlier this month
By the Caribbean Journal staff
Global sprinting sensation and gold medalist Kirani James, who was recently named a tourism ambassador for Grenada, is the centre of the country’s new tourism campaign, entitled “Celebration of Kirani: Celebration of Grenada.”
The campaign incorporates a logo with James carrying Grenada’s flag, with the tagline “Grenada: Gracious Every Day.”
It’s in part a nod to James’ memorable gesture in London, when, in the 400m semifinal heat, he chose not to celebrate, but to exchange bib numbers with South Africa’s Oscar Pistorius, a double-amputee competing in his first Olympics.
“Since Kirani James’ gold medal Olympic win and his highly publicized gesture of goodwill toward fellow competitor Oscar Pistorius, have elicited such an emotional response from people around the world, that we have initiated a campaign to capitalize on the awareness built for Grenada as a result,:” said Tourism Minister Dr George Vincent.
James, who had already seen a street named in his honour earlier this year, found out that the country’s national stadium will also bear his name.
“When he asked to exchange bibs, his magnanimous and unpretentious spirit became reflective not just of his own personality, but that of all Grenadians as genuine, warm and friendly — thereby increasing the appeal of the island as a desirable vacation choice,” Vincent said.
The campaign also includes features such as James’ top 10 things to do and see in Grenada and a “quote of the day” about James, among others.