Gary Hall Jr. Sets Unique Record at IOC Headquarters After Tragic Loss
May 5, 2025, 06:23 AM ET
LAUSANNE, Switzerland — In a heartwarming and unprecedented event, swimming legend Gary Hall Jr. found himself at the center of a unique ceremony at the International Olympic Committee headquarters. After the devastating loss of his Olympic medals in the Los Angeles fires, Hall was awarded a new set of 10 medals in a single day, setting an unexpected record.
Hall, known for his charismatic personality and competitive spirit, couldn’t help but inject a bit of humor into the solemn occasion. “I’ll do a better job of taking care of these,” he quipped as he received replacements for his five golds, three silvers, and two bronzes. These medals were originally earned while representing the United States in three Summer Games from 1996 to 2004.
The tragic incident occurred four months ago when Hall’s home in the Pacific Palisades area, which is set to host the next Summer Games in 2028, was engulfed in flames. The loss of his medals was a significant blow, but the ceremony at the IOC headquarters offered a moment of solace and celebration.
International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach acknowledged the uniqueness of the event, stating, “Replacing them by presenting 10 at the same time was a unique ceremony. I don’t think that it happened ever before, and I hope it will never have to happen again.” Bach expressed his hope that the ceremony would provide Hall with “a moment of relief and joy,” aiding him in the healing process after such a tragedy.
Hall, visibly moved, spoke about the overwhelming support he received from his family, former teammates, and even old Olympic rivals, including Australian swimming stars Ian Thorpe and Michael Klim. “Having friends and family, I am a very lucky man,” Hall said. “The support that I was offered from the athletic community has buoyed me through the darkest of nights.”
Among the items Hall brought with him to Switzerland was a deformed gold medal, a poignant reminder of the fire’s devastation. He had managed to recover it from the ruins of his home, which he fled with his dog, Puddles, after ensuring he had his insulin medication. “It’s got some character,” Hall remarked about the burned gold. “The value of friends outweighs the value of objects. We live in a time of capitalism, consumerism, and you realize when you lose everything, how little of it you truly need.”
He continued, “Character cannot be taken away, it cannot be burned, and it cannot be lost.”
In a touching moment, Hall recounted how Ian Thorpe was among the first to reach out to him during the January fires. “I don’t know how he knew,” Hall said, reflecting on the surprise call from Thorpe, who was part of the Australian 4×100-meter freestyle team that famously took gold ahead of the U.S. at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. “That is what this [Olympic] family is about — rivals and friends. I am just so appreciative to all of them. I can’t thank the Olympic movement enough for their support through this very difficult time.”
- Gary Hall Jr. received 10 replacement medals in a single day, setting a unique record.
- The original medals were lost in a fire at his Los Angeles home.
- Hall’s Olympic achievements span three Summer Games from 1996 to 2004.
- Support from the athletic community, including rivals, has been crucial for Hall.
- Hall emphasizes the enduring value of character and relationships over material possessions.
This story of resilience and camaraderie in the face of adversity is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Olympic community. It reminds us all of the power of friendship and support, transcending the boundaries of competition and rivalry.
Originally Written by: ESPN.com
