The Olympic Flame arrived in London last Friday in spectacular fashion with the help of the Royal Navy’s Commando Helicopter Force (CHF), in advance of its seven-day tour of the capital. This Friday is the official kick off of the 2012 Summer Olympics Games! Millions of people across the UK are preparing to join in a day of celebrations on Friday 27 July. The day will begin with bells ringing across the UK, as quickly and loudly as possible, at 8.12am for three minutes. This is part of the London 2012 Festival commission ‘All The Bells’ by Turner Prize winning artist Martin Creed.
Anyone can take part by ringing any kind of bell for three minutes – from change ringing experts to enthusiastic children with hand bells, bicycle bells and doorbells.
The worldwide broadcast of Danny Boyle’s ‘Isles of Wonder’ Olympic Opening Ceremony will commence at 9pm to an estimated audience of 1 billion people around the world.
Each day this week BCG is bringing you the exclusive coverage of some of the worlds’ top black Olympic athletes and letting you know how they give back! Be sure to tune in to your local NBC affiliate to catch this summer’s Olympic Games!
Meet Dawn Harper – Track & Field – 100 M Hurdles!!
Charities/Philanthropies:
Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center and Fastrac
BCG: Is there a reason why you support these organizations?
Dawn Harper: I grew up in East St Louis and I know how much the community needs such a positive influence. The center truly gives back to the kids….Fastrac is a college bound program that my dad started in Iowa City. I have seen it make the kids take responsibility for their future.
Be sure to cheer Dawn on, follow her on Twitte @DHarp100mH
Meet Kellie Wells – Track & Field – 100 M Hurdles
Charities/Philanthropies:
The Reed Foundation and any charity or foundation that is against domestic violence and sexual abuse.
BCG: Kellie, tell us why domestic violence and sexual abuse are so close to your heart?
Kellie Wells: I am a victim of sexual abuse and my mom was a victim of domestic violence so by supporting these causes I may be able to save lives.
Kellie needs your cheers! Be sure to follow Kellie on Twitter @KellieWellz
Meet Maya Moore – Team USA – Basketball
Charities/Philanthropies:
Breast Health Awareness (Lynx Foundation) and WNBA Cares.
BCG: Breast health awareness is a big cause in the black community, especially since our chances of survival are lower than any other races. Tell me why WNBA Cares?
Maya Moore: I am a huge believer in the impact of role models. Community involvement as a pro athlete plays such a big role in inspiring the next generation to be great.
It’s time to hoop it up and cheer for Team USA! Be sure to follow Maya on Twitter @MooreMaya and show your support!
Meet LoLo Jones – Track & Field
Charities/Philanthropies: Adopt a Child, The 9th Hurdle and she’s an Avid contributor to her church, “Healing Place”
Be sure to follow all things Olympics at www.NBCOlympics.com or www.TeamUSA.org
Photo Credit: Mitchell Haaseth, NBC Olympics.
This is a great series, I can’t wait to see who else is added each day!