Local running partners head to Paris to volunteer at Olympics

A pair of Leamington runners have headed to the Paris Olympics.

Not to compete, mind you, but as volunteers inside Canada Olympic House, otherwise known as La Maison Olympique.

Frank Ricci and Ronan Oliver — cycling and running partners — will be joined in Paris by Frank’s daughter Nicole Ricci, who is already in Paris and will be a part of the volunteer crew as well.

The opportunity came about when Nicole decided to apply and mentioned that maybe Frank should apply also. He and Ronan had talked about the idea a couple of years ago.

As long-time runners, they thought they’d enjoy being around the excitement of the Olympic games, especially in the spectacular setting of the  city of light.

Ronan also got involved due to his love for track and field. He was at one time the Irish champion in the 800-metre for his age group.

The three Leamingtonians will be on hand to greet families of athletes and others who want to stop in at Canada House to watch the games on the big screen.

And yes, it’s an expense, but one they are willing to incur for the experience of a lifetime. Olympics Canada will provide them some meals, but they are responsible for their own travel and accomodations.

Duties include helping with athlete celebrations every day and the CBC broadcast of the RBC Olympic Games Show.

Their official titles are Operations Support Worker and Access Support Worker. At Canada Olympic House, there will be celebrations, food, drinks, live performances — including by The Arkells — and a place to cheer on Team Canada for family, friends and fans.

They went through an online application process, vetting process, security and background checks, and some intensive training to prepare them to represent Canada in such a way.

“We’re looking forward to it,” said Ronan last week. “It’s an exciting time.”

Frank will handle the first two weeks of the Olympic period, while Ronan will arrive on August 2 to help with the latter parts.

They were both excited about the opening ceremonies which took place Friday, July 26 along the River Seine with the Eiffel Tower in the background. All athletes arrived at the ceremony by boat.

“A first for the Olympics with the opening ceremony being held on the water,” said Oliver.

They hope to catch some events during down-time for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“Ronan scored us tickets to the 100-metre final,” says Frank. “So that’ll be exciting.”