Olympians, Paralympians feted on Parliament Hill

Athletes visit schools, children's hospital, armed forces and Parliament Hill

CBC News

Posted: Sep 19, 2012 8:13 AM ET

Last Updated: Sep 19, 2012 4:26 PM ET

Canadian Olympians and Paralympians were touring Ottawa Wednesday as part of the Olympic Heroes tour that ended with a celebration at the House of Commons.

Trampolinist Rosie MacLennan, women's soccer goaltender Karina Leblanc and Paralympic swimmer Isaac Bouckley visited St. Anthony School. MacLennan was Canada's only Olympic gold medallist and Canada won seven Paralympic gold medals.

Some other groups of athletes visited a few other schools across Ottawa.

The tour then shifted to the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) for a noon-hour visit. Other athletes were to be physically tested with the Canadian Armed Forces at the same time.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper later welcomed the athletes to the Senate chamber on Parliament Hill, where he offered his congratulations before presenting them with medals marking Queen Elizabeth's diamond jubilee.

The one-day visit was capped off by a standing ovation from parliamentarians in the House of Commons following MPs' question period.

Athletes landed in Ottawa Tuesday night from many different Olympic and Paralympic disciplines, including medallists in gymnastics, soccer, weighlifting and canoe-kayak.