Community
16 August, 2024
Camperdown celebrates Olympian homecoming
RESIDENTS have been invited to a celebration to mark the return of Olympic bronze medalist Penny Smith this Friday (today).
A homecoming party will be held tonight from 7pm at the Commercial Hotel in Camperdown, with residents being given the opportunity to learn more about hers Olympic journey.
Venue manager Donna Conheady said the hotel will be hosting it as Ms Smith is an employee at the venue.
“Penny works at the hotel, so we’ve worked with her training schedules – when she’s home, we load her up with work, and when she’s travelling, all the other staff cover her shifts,” she said.
“We’ve enjoyed watching her compete and following her journey.
“We’ve invited the community to come
and see her and listen to her story.
“We’ll do a bit of a meet and greet with Penny, and people will be able to talk with her and chat to her and get photos and have a look at her bronze medal.”
The evening will include Ms Smith answering questions about her experience at the Paris Games, her preparations in the lead-up to the Games, and life at the Olympic Village.
Mrs Conheady said the hotel will provide a light supper following the meet and greet session.
“The bars will be open from 6pm, and it’ll be in the courtyard of the hotel,” she said.
“Penny and her family will arrive around 7pm and we’ll go from there.
“It’s open to all ages, and anyone who wants to see Penny, catch up with her and welcome her home.
“People don’t have to book or anything.”