Londoners will finally be able to show their appreciation and pride in the city's homegrown Olympic athletes who won big at the Tokyo summer games.
Tourism London and the City of London announced Friday a public celebration for London’s Olympians, coaches, and staff will be held at noon Saturday, August 28 at Labatt Park.
Among the guests of honour will be swimmer Maggie Mac Neil, who took gold in the 100-metre butterfly and a silver and bronze in separate relays; decathlon champion Damien Warner, who set a new record with his gold medal win; rower Susanne Grainger, who won gold with the women’s eight rowing team; basketball star Miranda Ayim, who was also one of Canada's two flag-bearers at the opening ceremony; and women’s coxless four rower Jennifer Martins.
The athletes will participate in a special question and answer session during the ceremony at Labatt Park. They will also get to hear something they weren't able to while competing in Tokyo - loud cheers from fans. COVID-19 restrictions limited spectators during the Olympics.
Athletes from London were linked to four of Canada's seven gold medals at the games.
A total of 3,300 people will be allowed to attend the August 28 celebration. The free tickets become available on a first-come, first-serve basis at noon on Saturday at www.londontourism.ca/olympics.
Walk-in tickets will not be available at the venue on the day of. Strict public health safety measures will be in place to protect against COVID-19 during the celebration. Face covers must be worn when entering the park but can be removed once seated.
Unfortunately, because of the pandemic fans won't be able to get autographs and selfies with the Olympic greats.
