Australian Olympic Committee Share Olympians’ Oath Ahead of Paris 2024
With just 32 days remaining until the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) has shared the Australian Olympians’ Oath – Paris 2024.
The video was circulated yesterday on Olympic Day, featuring eight esteemed Olympians and a debutant poised for their Paris moment.
The video stars Australia’s oldest living Olympian, 98-year-old Gordon Ingate, alongside Tokyo champions Emma McKeon and Jess Fox, Boomers’ talisman Patty Mills, Matildas captain Steph Catley, track legend Raelene Boyle, hockey icon Ric Charlesworth, diving veteran Melissa Wu, and surfer Jack Robinson, who will make his Olympic debut in Paris. The group reflects the breadth of Australia’s Olympic legacy, spanning generations, sports, and cultures.
Conceived by the AOC Athletes’ Commission, the Oath was first developed for the Tokyo 2020 Games, intending to encapsulate the enduring culture, values, and unique position Olympians hold in Australian society. AOC President Ian Chesterman expressed gratitude to all Olympians for their commitment to perpetuating the Olympic spirit across eras.
“When Olympic champion pole vaulter Steve Hooker initially proposed the idea of an Oath uniting all Olympians, the engagement from alumni and current athletes was immediate,” Chesterman noted. “The depth of feeling and careful consideration in their responses highlighted the significance of this initiative.”
Cate Campbell, AOC Athletes’ Commission Chair, emphasized the Oath’s role in uniting Olympians and setting expectations for the Australian team. “Olympians are immensely proud of the culture, values, and traditions of the Olympic movement. The Oath is a tangible expression of this pride,” Campbell said.
The Oath, brought to life through extensive consultation with Olympians and the AOC’s Indigenous Advisory Committee, was first recited before the Tokyo Games, marking a watershed moment for the Australian Olympic community. Each athlete in the video delivers a line from the Oath, underscoring its collective spirit.
Diving veteran Melissa Wu, competing in her fifth Olympics, reflected on the honor of representing Australia. “Every Olympics is different, and what it means to me evolves each time. Paris will be extra special because of the grit, determination, and strong mindset it has taken to get here,” Wu shared.
Gordon Ingate, who delivers the final line in the video, recalled his long journey to the Olympics. Despite being denied time off to compete in London 1948, he finally achieved his Olympic dream in Munich 1972 at age 46. “Winning selection and wearing the Australian uniform in Munich gave me immense satisfaction. It was close to my heart,” Ingate reminisced.
The Australian Olympians’ Oath is a testament to the nation’s rich Olympic heritage and the enduring spirit of its athletes. As the Australian team prepares to recite the Oath at the Paris Opening Ceremony on July 26, 2024, this campaign aims to rally national pride and support for their journey.
