All articles tagged with #olympian
Former Olympic canoeist David Hearn pleaded not guilty to a felony destruction-of-property charge over $1,000 for peeling paint at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, among at least four arrested in June amid renovation troubles; his lawyer called the prosecution an overreach, noting Hearn touched peeling paint out of curiosity.
A former Olympic canoeist, David “Davey” Hearn, 67, has been indicted on a felony destruction of property charge for allegedly ripping sealant from the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, DC, during a $14 million renovation. Prosecutors say about $1,000 in damage was caused. Hearn’s lawyers deny the accusations, calling the indictment politically motivated. Five others have been arrested in connection with pool vandalism, and the Reflecting Pool—often plagued by maintenance issues—has faced ongoing problems even after the renovation. The indictment relates to an incident that occurred on June 19, 2026.
Former Olympic canoeist Davey Hearn, 67, denies vandalizing Washington, DC's Reflecting Pool after being arrested on a misdemeanor destruction of government property charge; he says he briefly touched material that appeared to have delaminated from the pool and insists no paint was damaged, having been detained for about five hours. The pool’s $13 million refurbishment has featured ongoing paint peeling and algae issues, which Trump has highlighted amid the project.
Jeff Galloway, an Olympian who popularized the run-walk method and built a expansive running empire—stores, camps, media, and a best-selling coaching book—died at 80 from complications related to a stroke and brain bleeding. A formative figure in America’s amateur running boom, he mentored countless runners and helped shape the sport’s growth through innovation and accessibility.
Cyclist Rohan Dennis has pleaded guilty in the death of his wife, Melissa Hoskins, who was also an Olympian. The case has drawn significant attention due to the couple's prominence in the sports world.
Ilona Maher, fresh off her second-place finish on Dancing With the Stars, addressed her fans on social media to clarify a photo that could be misinterpreted. In a series of Instagram photos with her DWTS castmates, one image shows Maher pointing at her lap, which she explained was due to spilling beer, not an accident. She urged fans not to spread false rumors about the incident.
Canadian pole vault world champion and Olympian Shawn Barber has passed away at the age of 29. The cause of his death is currently unknown, but his agent mentioned that Barber had been experiencing health issues. Barber's career included notable achievements such as winning the world championships in 2015 and representing Canada at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
Canadian pole vault world champion and Olympian Shawn Barber has passed away at the age of 29. The cause of his death is currently unknown, but his agent mentioned that Barber had been experiencing health issues. Barber's career peaked in 2015 when he won the world championships in Beijing, and he also competed in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. He leaves behind a legacy of accomplishments, including three NCAA titles and several Canadian national records.
Former US Olympian and renowned swimming coach Richard Thornton, 65, tragically passed away due to a medical emergency while surfing in Santa Cruz, California. Thornton, who was part of the 1980 Olympic team that boycotted the Moscow games, had been coaching at San Ramon Valley Aquatics since 1984 and was a respected figure in the swimming community. His death is considered a significant loss to the sport.
Former US Olympian and renowned swimming coach Richard Thornton passed away at the age of 65 after collapsing on a beach in Santa Cruz, California. Thornton, who had been battling Multiple Myeloma, was remembered for his love of the water, both as a competitive swimmer and a surfer. He was a two-time All-American swimmer who qualified for the 1980 US men's Olympic swimming team but boycotted the Moscow Games. Thornton also had a significant impact as a coach, mentoring several future Olympians, including Matt Biondi. His death was not related to a surfing accident, and he is celebrated for living a life dedicated to his passions.
Richard Thornton, a renowned Bay Area swim coach and former U.S. Olympian, passed away at the age of 65 while preparing to surf at The Hook in Santa Cruz. His death was confirmed by his brother on Facebook, and while initial reports suggested he died while surfing, it was later clarified that he passed away upon entering the water. Thornton was a member of the boycotted 1980 U.S. Olympic team and had been coaching at San Ramon Valley Aquatics since 1984. He is remembered for his significant contributions to swimming and his impact on the lives of those he coached.
Richard Thornton, a 1980 U.S. Olympian and renowned swim coach, passed away at the age of 65 at The Hook, a surf spot in Santa Cruz. While initially reported as a surfing accident, his daughter clarified that he died stepping into the water, with the cause of death still unknown. Thornton had a distinguished career in swimming, coaching Olympic and World Championship finalists, and was named Pacific Swimming Coach of the Year. His father, Nort Thornton, was also a prominent swim coach at UC Berkeley. The swimming community mourns his loss.
Australian Olympian and world champion cyclist Melissa Hoskins has died at age 32 after being struck by a car in Adelaide, with her husband, fellow cyclist Rohan Dennis, reportedly arrested and charged in connection with the incident. Hoskins, who retired from professional cycling in 2017, was celebrated for her achievements including a gold medal in the team pursuit at the 2015 world championships. The cycling community has expressed deep sorrow and tributes to her life and career. The family has requested privacy during this time of mourning.
Melissa Hoskins, an Australian Olympian and world champion cyclist, has tragically died at the age of 32 after being hit by a car in Adelaide. The driver, identified by local media as her husband and fellow professional cyclist Rohan Dennis, has been charged with causing her death by dangerous driving and other offenses. The cycling community has expressed deep sorrow and tributes have poured in for Hoskins, who retired from professional cycling in 2017. Her family has requested privacy during this difficult time, and memorial services are planned in Perth and Adelaide.
Olympic track cyclist and former world champion Melissa Hoskins has died at age 32 after being hit by a car. Her family has paid tribute to her "freewheeling spirit" and "big heart." Her husband, Rohan Dennis, has been arrested and charged with causing her death by dangerous driving. Hoskins was a world champion and competed in the 2012 and 2016 Olympics. The cycling community has expressed an outpouring of sadness and support, and her family has requested privacy as they grieve.