Flora Duffy says she is “sad, devastated and heartbroken” by the cancellation of the 2021 World Triathlon Sprint & Relay Championships (WTCS Bermuda) due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 33-year-old became the first Bermudian ever to win an Olympic gold medal in any sport when she romped to gold in Tokyo in July. And the big weekend in October would have been a very special homecoming in front of her fans.

The event though, due to take place between October 15 and 17 inclusive, had to be cancelled recently due to a surge in infections on the island.

Flora Duffy and WTCS Bermuda pain

Writing on Instagram, Flora, who is preparing to take part in Super League Triathlon Malibu this weekend, talked of her pain in the aftermath of the announcement.

She said: “So bitterly sad, devastated and heart broken that the @worldtriathlonbermuda weekend has been cancelled. It has taken some processing, including some tears. So many to thank for trying to make it happen – I see you and appreciate you.

“It would have been a fairytale to race at home so soon after Tokyo. And even more so to finish the weekend racing in the mixed team relay with @ericahawley1 @tylersmith441 & @tybutterfield in front of a packed Front Str.”

Duffy still coming home

Despite the cancellation, Flora will still be returning home to Bermuda as planned to see family and friends.

“I am definitely still coming home to Bermuda on the 11th October as planned,” she said.

“To be with family, friends and do all the celebrating I can, given the needed restrictions.”

While the cancellation was devastating for Duffy, she also referenced the impact the virus has had on the island, and issued a plea for the future.

“My heart goes out to families where lives have been lost, and wishing strength to those currently in hospital and all those supporting them. Please – get vaccinated Bermuda.”