Introducing our newest Olympians for Life
26 | 7 | 2021
We are delighted to reveal the names of the five exceptional Olympians who have been inducted into Olympians for Life for their outstanding contribution to society.
The five new Olympians for Life were honoured at a special online ceremony by WOA Patron, HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco OLY, IOC and WOA Honorary President, Thomas Bach OLY and WOA President, Joël Bouzou OLY as part of our OLY House Tokyo 2020 celebrations.
The Olympians for Life Tokyo 2020 are:
Julius Achon OLY - Uganda, Athletics
For his ongoing efforts to improve healthcare and education for children in Uganda and rebuild his local community after decades of civil war.
Donna de Varona OLY - USA, Swimming
For her tireless promotion of gender equality, inclusion and sports development in America and around the world.
Koji Murofushi OLY - Japan, Athletics
For his leading role in sports development in Japan and his efforts to help his country recover after the Great East Japan Earthquake of 2011 and more recently the COVID-19 outbreak.
Alan Pascoe OLY - Great Britain, Athletics
For his achievements as a pioneer within the global sports marketing industry and his extensive charity work in Britain.
Rachael Lynch OLY - Australia, Hockey
For her selfless work as a nurse on the frontline of the fight against COVID-19 in Australia and her role as a mental health ambassador.
Speaking at the event, WOA Patron HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco OLY, said, “This honour is bestowed upon Olympians who have made a significant and positive contribution to society. Some have devoted their lives to promoting peace; others have joined the fight against the pandemic; while some campaign to improve the lives of disadvantaged young people and increase development through sport. They all draw on their Olympic experience to help make the world a better place.”
WOA President, Joël Bouzou OLY, added, “An Olympian’s legacy is felt far beyond the field of play. It makes me extremely proud to know that every day, in every country around the world, Olympians are making a positive contribution to the lives of others, working tirelessly to exemplify the Olympic Ideals and ensuring the spirit of Olympism lives on. This is the essence of what it means to be an Olympian for Life.”
Olympians for Life recognises Olympians who have excelled at the Games and in their lives following retirement from elite sport. First launched at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, with the second edition taking place at PyeongChang 2018, the Olympians for Life project has so far honoured 15 summer and winter Olympians with an exhibition of their images.
Photos of the Tokyo 2020 Olympians for Life can be viewed online at OLY House and you can watch the live event recording here or below.
