Friday marked the opening of the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio.
Jean Driscoll at the Tribute to the Olympics, date unknown
Since, Rio de Janeiro is nearly 5, 300 miles away it may be too much of a trek for most Champaign County residents to make the trip to the games. Luckily, television broadcasts and the internet can keep us up-to-date on all of our favorite athletes and events, but you can visit an Olympic Memorial much closer to home.
Dodds Park is home to the Tribute to Olympic and Paralympic Athletes Memorial. This incredible monument celebrates the great achievements of local Olympic participants. Designed by Architect Jeffery S. Poss, the piece was completed in 1991 and features over 30 Olympians notably Mark P. Arie, Bonnie Blair, Jean Driscoll and Erik Henriksen.
Best of Luck to all of our Illinois Olympians!
Lara, Archives Assistant