Club House Grand Opening ceremony - July 19th 2022

In the long 80-year history of Crusaders AC surely there was hardly a better occasion?
Gathering at the stadium to officially open the Clubhouse were many Crusaders past and present along with distinguished guests, many who played a crucial role in getting this project completed.

To do the official ribbon cutting was our most famous member Ronnie Delany the 1500m, Olympic Champion Melbourne 1956. It was truly wonderful to see young and old literally queuing to get a photo with Ronnie. All commentated on how gracious he was with one and all. In his speech he referenced a number of times the family sense and friendly nature of the club he has always experienced.

We also took the opportunity to unveil our Olympic Wall. This displays the photo of six of our Olympians. We were delighted that five of them were able to attend in person and they posed in front of the Olympic wall to warm applause. See photo above.

From Left to right they are: -
Thomas Chamney, 800m Beijing 2008
Derek McClean, 800m Tokyo 1964
Caroline O’Shea, 800m Los Angeles 1984
Ronnie Delany, 1500m and 800m, Melbourne 1956 and Rome 1960
Philip Conway, Shot Put Munich 1972

Our guests and members then repaired to the outdoor setting beside the track (due to Covid concerns surrounding indoor gatherings). On a beautiful warm and balmy evening, we enjoyed light refreshments, speeches, many photo opportunities and all amidst much catching up with friends new and old. I wish there were more days like this!!

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