Q&A: Long Beach must be ready to foster future Paralympians in 2028 and beyond, mayor says
Mayor Rex Richardson talks about his visit to the Paris Games and what Long Beach's participation in the 2028 Olympics will mean for the city.
When it comes to the summer Olympics, Long Beach has a rich history.
The city hosted numerous events when the Games came to Los Angeles in 1932 and again in 1984. In addition to playing host, the city is regularly represented by athletes. In fact, Wilson High alumni have competed in every summer Olympics since 1952.
Now, the city is gearing up to host once again. To learn the ropes ahead of the 2028 Olympics, officials from across Los Angeles County, including from Long Beach, traveled across the pond to experience the Paris Games and learn all they could from French officials.
Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson sat down with Watchdog reporter Brandon Richardson in his city hall office on Monday, Sept. 9 to chat about his experience and how it will inform the city’s role in the next summer Games.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Brandon Richardson: Before we get into 2028, can you tell me a little bit about your experience at the Paris Olympics?
