Olympians from all over the world gathered in PyeongChang tonight in celebration of the Games, and to share in the Olympic spirit and have some fun.
The event, which took place at Slovenia House, was hosted by World Olympians Association bringing together Olympian alumni of all generations, nations and sports. It was also a chance to celebrate the role of Olympians in society and recognise the achievements of those gathered.
Welcoming guests to the reception, WOA President Joël Bouzou OLY, said: "It is an honour to gather here on the occasion of the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games and to welcome so many of our Olympic friends and alumni to Slovenia House.
"We are delighted to be hosting this event that celebrates the strong ties that unite us. Being an Olympian means being part of a global community of athletes who are connected by the shared experience of competing on sport’s greatest stage and guided by the Olympic ideals."
Five-time Olympian and Korean Olympians Association Vice President Lee Eun-Chul OLY wished all Olympians a great experience in Korea.
WOA Patron HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco OLY also raised a glass in toast as he reminisced about his time as an athlete at the Winter Games.
During the reception guests were invited to sign-up for WOA’s popular OLY initiative that recognises the achievements of Olympians with the post-nominal-designation OLY. They were also treated to music, dancing and traditional Slovenian cuisine.
Six-time Slovenian Olympian, Olympic gold medal winning rower and Vice-President of the Slovenia Olympic Committee, Iztok Cop OLY, was on hand to offer Olympians a warm welcome to his national house, a Slovenian chalet set in the heart of PyeongChang.
The event forms part of WOA’s PyeongChang 2018 Olympians programme, which has seen Olympians invited to attend a number of special events as well as take part in WOA’s popular ticketing programme, allowing Olympians to attend selected Olympic Games events for free.
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