Plenty of Virginians will compete in Paris this summer. | Photo by Erin McPherson
Light the torch and cue that iconic Olympics theme song — we’re ready for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics happening Friday, July 26 to Sunday, Aug. 11.
At this summer’s Olympic Games, approximately 10,500 athletes from 206 National Olympic Committees will compete across 32 sports — including some new ones.
Since we’re all about keeping it local, we’ve rounded up eight Paris 2024 Olympians with ties to Richmond and Virginia that you should keep your eye on. Let the Games begin.
Charlie Swanson, Swimming All of Richmond will be cheering for Charlie Swanson, a St. Christopher’s grad who has qualified for his first Olympics. Swanson swam for NOVA before going to University of Michigan.
At this year’s trials, he set three personal records in the 100m Breaststroke, which he’ll swim in Paris. You’ll also probably find him on the Men’s 4 x 100m Medley Relay and Mixed 4 x 100m Medley Relay teams.
What events will you be following during the Olympics?
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Photo by Erin McPherson
Alex Walsh, Swimming Alex Walsh already has some Olympic hardware — she won silver in the Women’s 200m Individual Medley in Tokyo. Born in Nashville, Walsh racked up 19 NCAA championships while attending UVA.
Gretchen Walsh, Swimming The younger sister of Alex, Gretchen Walsh qualified for her first Olympics this year. She is currently at UVA, going into her senior year with 18 NCAA championships already under her belt.
The Hoos are well-represented on USA Swimming — the head coach of Virginia Swim, Todd DeSorbo, was named head coach of the US women’s swim team last year.
Emily Fox, Soccer This Ashburn native will help anchor the defense as USWNT seeks to reclaim their international clout after a heartbreaking exit from the 2023 World Cup. Fox plays professionally in England for Arsenal FC.
Get the details on four more athletes at the link below.
Transit Talk: A Heat Emergency | Thursday, July 25 | 12 p.m. | Virtual | Free | Register to hear from Peter Braun, a Built Environment Policy Analyst, and learn about his local research on urban heat exposure.
RVA LinkUP | Thursday, July 25 | 1-4 p.m. | Bon Secours Training Center, 2401 W. Leigh St., Richmond | Free | Bring plenty of business cards and get ready to connect at this small business fair with buyers and procurement officers.
“Jaws” | Thursday, July 25 | 7 p.m. | The Byrd Theatre, 2908 W. Cary St., Richmond | $9 | You’re gonna need a bigger screen to watch this iconic blockbuster during Shark Week.
Friday, July 26
Opening Ceremony Watch Party | Friday, July 26 | 1 p.m. | Starr Hill Beer Hall & Rooftop, 3406 W. Leigh St., Richmond | Cost of purchase | Get into the Olympic spirit with craft brews, indoor and outdoor TVs, and treats from Eat My Eggroll until 4 p.m.
Flying Squirrels vs. Binghamton Rumble Ponies | Friday, July 26 | 6:35 p.m. | The Diamond, 3001 N. Arthur Ashe Blvd., Richmond | $10-$25 | Get there early for your chance to score an Ardillas Voladoras trucker hat.
Jazz Night: Justin Ott | Friday, July 26 | 7-11 p.m. | Gallery5, 200 W. Marshall St., Richmond | Free | Enjoy an evening of tunes or level up with by purchasing a VIP table.
Saturday, July 27
Duke’s Hot Tomato Summer Market | Saturday, July 27 | 4-7 p.m. | Odd Bird, 320 Brook Rd., Richmond | Free entry | Shop candles, prints, knick knacks, and more at this market in honor of Hot Tomato Summer.
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Get a first look at the Shockoe Institute from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at Main Street Station. The space will explore the legacy and impact of American slavery. Head to the first floor lower train shed to see a preview ahead of the 2025 opening.
Opening
Richmond Olive Oil Co. will host a grand opening at its Carytown storefront this Sunday, July 28 from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. The specialty importer has been a presence at local farmers markets for several years.
Biz
The city’s Economic Development Authority is exploring designating Carytown as a business improvement district. A consultant will be hired to evaluate the possibility. This could also create a template for other potentials BIDs, including Hull Street and Brookland Park Boulevard. (Richmond BizSense)
Holiday
This year’s Richmond Christmas Mother has been announced. Dermatologist Dr. Lydia Jones Johnson will help lead the holiday initiative to raise funds for local families in need. (Richmond Times-Dispatch)
Pets
You have until today at 12 p.m. to help determine the Official Dog of 804 Day. The winning pup will have ceremonial duties at the festival, on top of other prizes. Scroll through the nominees and vote for your pick. (Style Weekly)
Sports
Try out a new sport at River City Roller Derby’s rookie orientation on Sunday, Aug. 4. All skill levels are welcome and gear and skates will be available to borrow. Get your questions answered at a virtual information session on Wednesday, July 31 at 6 p.m.
Community
It’s official — Chesterfield’s mascot will be Cole the resourceful raccoon. Over 3,000 votes were cast to determine the chosen species. Local artists Mickael Broth and Sure Hand Signs will collaborate on the final design.
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Enjoy an afternoon at the VMFA capped off with tea at Floris. | Photo by Sophia McCrimmon
In the mood for a spot of tea? Make a reservation at one of these local tea rooms.
Floris at VMFA, Museum District Located in the Pauley Center Parlor, this tea house offers a rotating menu inspired by the museum’s collections and exhibitions.
The Jefferson Hotel, Monroe Ward The Richmond favorite Southern Afternoon Tea is served Friday and Saturday, with reservations available 90 days in advance.
See about special experiences at the Queen’s Library Tea Room.
As a UVA grad, I look forward to spotting all the Hoos competing in Paris. There are 18 current and former Cavaliers representing a variety of countries at the Games.
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