Euphoria erupted yesterday on the Brian Lara Promenade, Independence Square, Port of Spain, as scores of spectators rejoiced after seeing Tobago-born Lalonde Gordon win Trinidad and Tobago's first medal in the London 2012 Olympics.

Gordon bagged bronze for this country at the 400 metres final.

The race was a historic one as the top three positions were grabbed by Caribbean athletes with Kirani James winning Grenada's first gold and Luguelin Santos winning silver for the Dominican Republic.

Yesterday, a large crowd gathered on the Brian Lara Promenade, under an overcast sky, to view the race on the big-screen television on the facade Express House.

Fans threw their hands in the air and cheered on as the Gordon crossed the finish line with an Olympic win.

Many told the Express they breathed a sigh of relief after Gordon's victory as it was felt that Trinidad and Tobago would not be getting any Olympic medals this year.

"I was really getting worried that we wasn't getting up there. I love my country very much and I hope before the Olympics is over we'll get something more. We have to aim for gold," said 61-year-old Jerome Eming Tarejo.

David Wren, 39, said he knew Gordon personally and had full confidence that he would be Trinidad and Tobago's shining light.

"He is one of the athletes we have been working with closely with a coach from Arima, we knew he was going to win a medal. I had advised him to work on his turns and he did that today, he did his best," said Wren.

Wren said Gordon's career has just begun and he must continue training.

"I think the Government should give him a stipend or something so he can focus all his attention on training. We have the World Championships coming up," he said.

"From day one I keep telling people that is the man, he is going to be the one to bring home a medal for Trinidad and Tobago," Wren added.

Anthony Crichlow, 36, told the Express Gordon's bronze was like a gold.

"I am so glad, at least we get a medal, we went there to represent and Gordon represented to his best. I can't wait for him to come back so the country can celebrate," he said.

Ariel Antoine, 25, said he was overjoyed at the win and hoped that it could be an inspiration for the youths in the field.

"I am very happy, I knew we would have gotten a medal and I feel proud that Gordon brought it home for us," said Antoine.