"I’ll never forget how much this town has shaped me"- Kenny Bednarek pens a note of gratitude as he receives a hero's welcome in rain

Kenny Bednarek received a grand welcome in his hometown of Rice Lake, Wisconsin, after a victorious campaign at the Paris Olympics. The American athlete was cheered on by the residents as he embarked on a victory parade along with his mother and girlfriend, Sharmila Nicollet.

Kenny Bednarek competed in the men's 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay at the Paris Olympics. After great performances early in the 2024 season, he was considered to be one of the top prospects for the podium in the sprint double. However, after going head-to-head against a highly competitive line-up that included Noah Lyles, Kishane Thompson, Fred Kerley, and others, he finished seventh in the men's 100m.

The 26-year-old then marched onto the men's 200m and clocked 19.62s to finish behind Letsile Tebogo of Botswana and clinched the silver medal, marking his second consecutive Olympic medal in the event. Kenny Bednarek competed in the 4x100m relay; however, tragedy struck the team and they were disqualified after they violated the baton exchange zone rule. The 26-year-old concluded his campaign with a silver medal.

After he returned to the United States, he was bestowed the honor of having a day named after him in Rice Lake. Bednarek took to Instagram to thank the residents of his hometown for coming out and extending their support despite the rain.

"Coming back home to Rice Lake and parading through the streets, even in the rain, was an absolute honor. Seeing so many people from my hometown braving the weather to show support is something I’ll never forget," he said.

"I want to personally thank the mayor of Rice Lake for proclaiming October 12th as Kenny Bednarek Day. I’ll never forget how much this town has shaped me, and I’m proud to carry that with me wherever I go."

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Kenny Bednarek on his Paris Olympics campaign

Kenny Bednarek at the Wanda Diamond League 2024 Final - Allianz Memorial Van Damme Brussels - Source: Getty

Kenny Bednarek took to Instagram to reflect on his Olympic campaign in the French capital. The American athlete shed light on feeling honored to be representing his country at the highest level in the sport and competing against some of the best athletes in the world.

"Representing my country and hometown at the Olympics is the greatest honor of my life. It’s more than just a competition — it’s a celebration of global unity, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of dreams," he wrote.

"Securing another medal🥈is a testament to years of dedication, hard work, sacrifices, and support from everyone who believed in me," he added.

After the Paris Olympics, Bednarek participated in the Diamond League series and emerged victorious against Letsile Tebogo in the 200m in the Brussels Diamond League finals before concluding his 2024 season.