London Olympics Medals Secure in Tower of London
Officials from Rio Tinto delivered the final Olympic and Paralympic medals July 2 to be locked securely in the landmark's vaults until they are presented later this month.
A total of 4,700 gold, silver, and bronze medals have been delivered to a London landmark famed for its security: the Tower of London's vaults. The handover from representatives of Rio Tinto, the mining company, took place July 2 during a welcoming ceremony that is part of a grand, nationwide buildup to the games.
The medals will be presented at a total of 30 London 2012 venues, with the medals staying in the vaults until needed. LOCOG, the organizing committee, said the first medals will be awarded July 28 in the Olympic shooting competition.
"For an athlete, winning an Olympic or Paralympic medal represents the conclusion of thousands of hours of training and reaching the highest level in sport. The Victory Ceremonies then provide the moment they can truly celebrate their success. It's great that the London 2012 medals will be kept safe and secure at the Tower of London until then," LOCOG Chair Sebastian Coe said.