For the Love of Sport & Beyond

As part of the mission of the United States Olympians and Paralympians Association (USOPA) it is our responsibility to "develop camaraderie among those who have shared the unique experience of representing their nation at the Olympic and Paralympic Games." We hosted the 2023 USOPA Reunion on April 21-23 in Colorado Springs, Colo.

We lift those that would have liked to attend, but for whatever reason could not, and we remember and give thanks to those who have gone on before us and on whose shoulders we now stand - to carry the Torch and be an inspiration to others as they were to us.

The 2023 USOPA Reunion kicked-off with a "Red Carpet" arrival and Opening Reception at the United States Olympic & Paralympic Museum & Hall of Fame, our very own Willie Banks was the Master of Ceremony. We heard from Mayor John Suthers, Andie Doyle, USOPM Board Chair; and Pam Shockley Zalabak, USOPM Acting CEO. They all gave words of thanks and optimism for the years ahead.

Billy Mills unveiled a new painting that he gifted to the USOPM and gave an inspiring speech. The evening concluded with a fun dance party.

An Interactive Town Hall was presented by Janet Evans on behalf of LA28. Dr. Roberta Kraus, President, Center for Sports Psychology and Hunter Kemper hosted a "Becoming Your Personal Best: Your Personal Resiliency Journey" session.

The Reunion Gala began with Madeline Manning Mims performing the National Anthem. USOPC CEO, Sarah Hirshland welcomed the group, John Naber served as the Master of Ceremony.

USOPA presented its highest award - The Louis Zamperini Lifetime Achievement Award to 1968 Modern Pentathlete, Tom Lough. The award is named after the legendary 1936 Olympian, Louis Zamperini. The evening ended with a "Parade of Athletes" recognition.

To wrap-up the weekend, there was a church service and "Look to Paris 2024" brunch. Information was shared for those planning to attend the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024.

Olympians and Paralympians, and the coaches that train them are a special and unique group! So unique in fact, someone once said, "they have halos, and that he could pick them out of a crowd any time, any place, day or night because of that halo, that beacon of light!"

The journey towards excellence continues...

Enjoy time with family and friends, we will see you in 2027!

Reunions

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