BOOKS by Usain Bolt, Kelly Holmes and Michael Johnson will be discussed and debated at The Olympic Spirit- Journey to Greatness at Ealing Central Library this Thursday.
The free event in the Green Room is from 6-7.30pm and is presented by Black History and Culture West London.
Journey to Greatness is part of Black History Month and will celebrate literature from African and Caribbean Olympians.
Cheryl Burke, facilitator of this event and Chair of Black History and Culture West London, said: “I fear that there is a lack of interest in reading about athletes but they have the most amazing personal stories to tell about beating incredible odds in order to achieve greatness.
“Their stories should be heard and repeated from the sandpit to the boardroom.”
Ms Burke said she hopes the event will simulate debate and actively encourage the Olympic fever lives on in the libraries of schools and colleges and will ensure African and Caribbean literature is accessible.
She explained that as a legacy and in the long term a book club may be established.
“There are so many amazing stories linked to Ealing that are untold and it’s exciting to discover them and share them with the world,” she added.
Ealing will host other Black history events this month including the ‘Victory’ exhibition in the Studio Gallery of Pitzhanger Manor Gallery and House on Oct 20-Nov 3.
The event will highlight the visual and spoken word of local artists, schools and community groups, showcasing the contributions made by people of African and Caribbean heritage.
Visitors can recommend a book for the Journey to Greatness event and are advised to book in advance. For more information visit chair@bhcwl.org.uk
