In a philanthropic move that underscores his commitment to making a difference, celebrated diver Greg Louganis has announced the auction of three of his five Olympic medals, with a portion of the proceeds going towards supporting the Damien Center, an esteemed HIV/AIDS service organization. With experts estimating the auction’s total value to surpass $2 million, each medal holds a significant personal story for Louganis, who hopes that their legacy can extend beyond himself to create a positive impact.
The medals set for auction include the remarkable 1976 silver medal for the 10-meter platform dive, the iconic 1984 gold medal for the 3-meter springboard dive, and the awe-inspiring 1988 gold medal for the 10-meter platform. Louganis, who secured the silver medal at the tender age of 16, candidly revealed his initial feelings of shame for not clinching the gold. However, the 1984 gold medal marked a pivotal moment for him, serving as his first golden triumph, which he then repeated during the 1988 Games.
The journey leading to his 1988 gold medal victory holds a remarkable tale of determination and resilience. During the preliminary round, Louganis suffered a harrowing accident, hitting the back of his head on the diving board. Despite the concussion, he summoned immense courage and triumphed with a final dive, securing both the 1988 Olympic victory and concluding his illustrious competitive career on an extraordinary high note.
Louganis, who publicly disclosed his HIV status and sexual identity in his influential 1995 memoir, “Breaking the Surface,” has since become an ardent advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and those affected by HIV. The auctioning of his treasured medals represents yet another significant step in his unwavering commitment to raising awareness and supporting vital causes. Estimates for the medals’ value vary, with the current top valuations being $300,000 for the 1976 silver medal, $900,000 for the 1984 gold medal, and $1.2 million for the 1988 gold medal.
In addition to the medals, Louganis will also auction the iconic Speedo he wore during his victorious 1976 silver medal performance. The auction will be facilitated by Bonhams’ esteemed auction house in Los Angeles and is scheduled to take place on September 14 at the Marguerite Aquatics Complex, where Louganis embarked on his training journey as a member of the Mission Viejo Swim Club.
Louganis expressed his heartfelt intentions for the auction’s proceeds, emphasizing the vital support it will provide to the Damien Center in assisting those living with HIV. He envisions the funds contributing to a comprehensive range of services, including mental health support, dentistry, and healthcare. Louganis’s ultimate aspiration is to name the welcome center after Ryan White, an influential figure in the fight against HIV, and the welcome lounge after his beloved mother, Francis Louganis.
As the auction approaches, the fervor surrounding this historic event is palpable. It serves as a remarkable testament to Greg Louganis’s indomitable spirit, cementing his legacy as both an extraordinary athlete and a compassionate advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and individuals impacted by HIV/AIDS.
