International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach confirmed former US swimmer Gary Hall Jr will receive new medals after his were destroyed in the Los Angeles wildfires.
The three-time Olympian had to evacuate his home taking only his dog, medication he needs, a religious artefact and a painting of his grandfather.
He was unable to return for the five gold, three silver and two bronze medals he won at Olympic Games from 1996-2004.
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“I was getting pelted by embers on that first run,” Hall told the Los Angeles Times. “So I grabbed my dog and some dog food, and that was it.
“Could I have stayed 30 seconds longer and maybe got the medals? I wasn’t willing to take that risk.”
Gary Hall Jr (right). Getty
The IOC boss announced on social media the Olympic great will be given replica medals.
“We are in full solidarity with the citizens of Los Angeles and full of admiration for the tireless work of the firefighters and the security forces,” he said.
“Currently the full focus must be on the fight against the fires and the protection of the people and property.
“We have also learned that a great Olympian, Gary Hall Jr has lost his medals in the fire. The IOC will provide him with replicas.”
