Maggie Mac Neil closed the book last week on one of Canada's best swimming careers and ranks as one of the most successful athletes in London sports history. The 24-year-old Banting secondary school grad overcame sport-induced asthma aggravated by chlorine to win Olympic and world titles with technical excellence, dedication and an astonishing finishing kick. Mac Neil, who took part in a pep rally Thursday at Banting, spoke with Free Press sports reporter Ryan Pyette. Her answers have been condensed. Read More

It's been about 15 years since The London Free Press first starting covering a teenage track-and-field star at Mother Teresa secondary school, Alysha Newman. Now 30 and at her third Olympics, she's made the pole vault finals for the first time (Wednesday, 12:15 p.m. Ontario time) after overcoming personal and professional challenges. Here's a look back at her journey, in photos. Read More