Moscow Olympians finally recognised
The 1980 games have been a black spot on the Olympic record.
Seven months before they were set to be held, the then Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan causing many countries to boycott the games.
Although Australia never formally boycotted the event, public sentiment against Australian attendance was widespread.
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser urged the Australian Olympic Federation (now the Australian Olympic Committee) to support the boycott and even offered athletes $6000 each as incentive not to compete. The 1980 Australian Olympic Team that defied intense public pressure to take part in the controversial Moscow Games attend Question Time at Parliament House in Canberra. NewsWire / Martin Ollman Credit: News Corp Australia
Some teams, including the entire Australian hockey and equestrian teams, withdrew completely, but in the end the Australian Olympic Federation narrowly voted against withdrawing from the games — six votes to five.
Ultimately, just 121 of the original 273 athletes made it to the Games — quietly and with little fanfare — they were snuck in and out of the country in an unmarked plane and out of uniform.
On Wednesday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and opposition leader Sussan Ley officially recognised the athletes participation and subsequent treatment in an address to parliament.
'When you were chosen to wear the green and gold you should draw strength from knowing that the whole nation is with you,' the Prime Minister said.
'And on your return you should be welcomed home and celebrated for the inspiration you have brought to the next generation of Australian athletes. Mr Albanese, Sport Minister Anika Wells and Speaker of the House, Milton Dick meet with the 1980 Australian Olympic Team for afternoon tea at Parliament House in Canberra. NewsWire / Martin Ollman Credit: News Corp Australia
'Yet 45 years ago, the Soviet Union's invasion of Afghanistan cast a dark shadow over what should have been your shining moment.
'As nations around the world grappled with the boycott, Australia's athletes — some still only teenagers — were placed in an incredibly difficult position.
'One hundred and twenty-one Australians chose to compete under the Olympic flag. Others chose to join the boycott. Some who had won selection never even had the chance to choose because their sport made the decision for them.'
Mr Albanese said upon their return athletes were met with 'cold silence or cruel comments'.
'Today, we fix that. Today, on the 45th anniversary, we recognise all that you have achieved and acknowledge all that you have overcome.
'Take pride in both. You are Olympians. You are Australians and you have earned your place in the history of the game and our nation. Welcome to parliament and welcome home.'
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