GB Olympians mark 50 years since the Montreal and Innsbruck Games

26 | 6 | 2026

To mark the 50th anniversary of the Montreal Summer Games and the Innsbruck Winter Games, Great Britain's 1976 Olympians came together in London for a special reunion hosted by the GB Olympians Association. Over 80 Olympians attended the event, which took place at the Lansdowne Club in Mayfair, a private members' club in central London which counts several Olympians among its members.

Among the guests was HRH The Princess Royal, who competed for Great Britain in equestrian events at the Montreal Games. Also among the guests was Dame Katherine Grainger OLY, Chair of the British Olympic Association.

Sarah Lewis OLY, Chair of the GB Olympians Association, said: 'It was a truly memorable evening. Seeing athletes from various sports come together to share memories, renew friendships, and celebrate their lifelong connection to the Olympic Movement was a privilege. The strength of that bond remains as powerful today as it was in 1976 — Once an Olympian, Always an Olympian.'

Following the event, the Private Secretary of HRH The Princess Royal shared: 'Her Royal Highness was delighted to attend and very much enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with fellow Olympians and reflect on the 1976 Games. She was touched by the warmth of the welcome and the chance to speak with so many guests.'

A particular highlight of the evening was the commemorative film, which featured archive footage from the International Olympic Committee and BBC Sport and had been edited by postgraduate students.

Several Olympians who had lost touch reconnected on the night and are now planning their own gatherings. It is a reminder that the Olympic Games create bonds that last a lifetime.

Photo credits: Alex Boag