January 19, 2000
Contact: Doug Myers Albany International Airport 518-242-2222

AIRPORT EXHIBIT RELIVES 1932 AND 1980 LAKE PLACID OLYMPICS

The Albany International Airport will host an exhibition of winter sports' most memorable moments including the hockey goal from the ice of the U.S. Hockey Team's historic "Miracle on Ice" victory over the Soviet Union during the 1980 Lake Placid Olympic Games. The exhibition entitled Lake Placid: Winter Sports Capital opens Wednesday January 19 and will run through March 25 in the Airport's third floor Gallery.

"This exhibit offers travelers and airport visitors a unique opportunity to relive the exciting Olympic victories that made Lake Placid New York's Olympic Village," said Rev. Michael A. Farano, Chairman of the Albany County Airport Authority.

The exhibition, from the collection of the 1932 & 1980 Lake Placid Winter Olympic Museum, is an exciting overview of the legacy and heritage of winter sports in Lake Placid and features examples of Lake Placid's continuing role as a world-class training and competition site.

Fascinating memorabilia is presented from start to finish through medals, diplomas, trophies, uniforms and photographs. Olympic art captures the glory and excitement of the Games and features lithographs, street banners, commemorative tapestries, paintings, prints and sculpture.

The exhibit coincides with the February 16th opening of the Goodwill Games in Lake Placid. The Olympic Regional Development Authority has estimated that over 1,000 athletes, trainers and coaches from around the world will pass through the Albany International Airport on route to the Goodwill Games.

Historic and contemporary artifacts on display include uniforms and sports equipment worn by Olympic participants including goalie Jim Craig during the U.S. Hockey Team's stunning 4-3 upset over the Soviet Union during the 1980 Winter Olympics. Not only was the American victory one of the great moments in sports, but it has been viewed as the turning point of the Cold War.

The Airport offers an opportunity for individuals to take part in the exhibit and "feel like a winner" speeding down the bobrun as they sit in a Jr. Trainer bobsled located on the second floor of the airport.

The Albany International Airport will host a public reception and tour of the Lake Placid exhibit on Friday, February 11 from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

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