(ATR) Thousands of Atlantans are expected to converge on Centennial Olympic Park this Saturday to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Atlanta 1996 Summer Olympics.
The Games in Atlanta thrust the city onto the world stage and brought about lasting changes that drove prosperous economic ventures. The Centennial Olympic Park in the heart of downtown Atlanta is a tribute to that lasting impact and legacy of Atlanta 1996.
Billy Payne, a real estate attorney in Atlanta, came up with the idea of bidding for the Olympics and envisioned the park that spectators and residents alike could enjoy for years to come. Although an improbable idea at the time, Atlanta beat out the favorite Athens, Greece to host the Games thanks to a strong bid and good leadership.
These memories and many more will be center-stage Saturday as thousands of volunteers are joined by Olympians, Paralympians, ACOG leaders and residents to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Games. The celebration will feature musical performances, stories from athletes and organizers as well as a fireworks show to conclude the evening.
Payne joined Around the Rings Editor Ed Hula on the latest edition of ATRadio to talk about the lasting legacy of the Games and the 20th anniversary celebration on July 16.
Listen to the interview with Payne below:
Written by Kevin Nutley
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