McMaster University is well represented at the Sydney Olympics by alumni, staff, former students and coaches.

Although she competes in a variety of swimming events, 23-year-old Joanne Malar, a former McMaster swim team member, went into these Olympics hoping to shine in the 200- and 400-metre individual medley (IM) meets. Malar finished seventh in the 400-metre competition, and fifth in the 200 IM, which took place early this morning (Sept. 19). It is expected that this will be her last Olympics.

Level III social sciences student Janet Cook, 21, who swims with the McMaster-based Hamilton-Wentworth Aquatic Club as well as the varsity swim team, qualified with a sixth-place finish in the women's 4×100-metre freestyle relay Olympic trials. She is coached by McMaster's Gaye Stratten.

Mark Heese, who graduated from McMaster in 1992 with a Bachelor of Physical Education, is on the Toronto-based beach volleyball team. Heese and teammate John Child are hoping to improve on their Atlanta bronze medal win.

McMaster alumnus Dave Hart (BPE '74) is the 1973 Ivor Wynne Trophy winner and a 1992 Hall of Fame inductee. He is the assistant water polo coach for the Canadian team.

Barry Shepley, head coach of the triathlon team, had the pleasure of watching Canada win the gold medal courtesy of Simon Whitfield of Kingston. This marks the Olympic debut of the triathlon race which involves swimming, cycling and running. Shepley, who graduated from McMaster with a Bachelor of Physical Education in 1986, was the assistant coach of the University's indoor and outdoor track and field teams (1986-88) and coach of the cross-country team (1988-89).

For the past six months, Trish Chant, co-ordinator of communications/media relations for the Department of Athletics & Recreation, has served on the Sydney Organizing Committee for the Olympic Games, helping with the planning of this huge event. During the Games, she will be handling logistics for the beach volleyball competitions.