"Relive the Dream" event celebrates 20th anniversary of Atlanta Olympics

ATLANTA — The 20th anniversary celebration of the Olympic games in Atlanta, called "Relive the Dream," features athletes, former volunteers and civic leaders.

"I remember sitting over there watching the events on the big screen, it was pretty awesome," resident Chuck Leake said.

Returning to Centennial Park was a walk down memory lane for Leake. He was there when Atlanta hosted the 1996 Olympics.

His most vivid memory was the opening ceremony when Muhammad Ali lit the Olympic caldron.

"That was the highlight of the Atlanta Olympics," Leake said.

Five-time Olympic medalist Janet Evans remembers swimming in the games, but seeing Ali at the games is her fondest memory.

"Passing the torch to Muhammad Ali during opening ceremonies was incredible and it was just a wonderful experience," Evans said.

Ten-time Olympic medalist track and field star Carl Lewis told Channel 2's Tyisha Fernandes he's happy to be "reliving the dream" in Atlanta.

"Atlanta is really the only one that keeps the legacy alive this strong and I think its wonderful," Lewis said.

Security is checking everyone before they enter the park, and they're not allowing big bags.

Leake said he's not worried about anything happening. He's honored to relive the historic event. He hopes all these young people do the same.

"Maybe they'll learn something about it, and that Atlanta was a host site for the Olympics," Leake said.

Cox Media Group