PRIME Minister Portia Simpson-Miller has lauded swimming sensation Alia Atkinson for her World Record Swim at the 12th FINA World Swimming Championships in Doha, Qatar on December 6.

“She is the pride and joy of the entire Caribbean,” the Prime Minister said of the world record holder in a release.
Simpson-Miller added: “I extend heartiest congratulations to our spectacular athlete, Alia Atkinson, Jamaican sportswoman, Olympian, gold medallist and joint world record holder for the 100-metre breaststroke.”
The PM was in Cuba when she heard of Alia’s achievement in Doha.
Simpson-Miller said that heads of government from across the Caribbean celebrated with Jamaica as if Alia was their own.
Alia made history by becoming the first black woman to hold the world record in any international swimming event in 40 years.
“On behalf of the people and Government of Jamaica, I wish Alia continued success in her swimming career and God’s richest blessings on her life, her parents and members of her family,” the PM said.