The City of Carson will officially launch its community-wide countdown to the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games on Wednesday, June 24, with the official Carson Experience launch event and unveiling of a 700-pound Olympic countdown clock at 9:25 a.m. at Carson Park, 21411 Orrick Ave. The event marks the beginning of Carson's role as an official LA28 Venue City, hosting multiple Olympic and Paralympic competitions.
Hundreds of Carson youth will join Olympic Gold Medalist Steve Lewis, Team USA Rugby Sevens player Marcus Tupuola, City leaders and LA28 representatives in a celebration highlighting Carson's Olympic legacy and future. The initiative, called the Carson Experience, aims to connect residents to the Games through community events, activations and celebrations leading up to the 2028 Games while showcasing local pride and inspiring the next generation.
“This is a historic moment for Carson,” said Mayor Pro Tem Cedric Hicks Sr. “The Carson Experience will engage our community in the Olympic spirit and ensure that our residents, especially our youth, feel connected to the Games. We are proud to be an official Venue City and to unveil this countdown clock as a daily reminder of the excitement ahead.”
The nearly 700-pound clock, designed to withstand outdoor conditions, will be a prominent fixture at Carson Park, counting down the days, hours, minutes and seconds until the opening ceremony of the 2028 Olympic Games. The clock's unveiling is part of a broader effort by the city to build momentum and enthusiasm as Los Angeles prepares to host the Games for the third time.
Carson's selection as a Venue City underscores its deep ties to the Olympic movement. The city previously hosted events during the 1984 Olympic Games and has produced several Olympic athletes. “Carson has a proud Olympic history, and we are excited to build on that legacy,” said Steve Lewis, who won gold in the 4x400m relay at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. “Seeing the excitement in these young faces reminds me of why the Games are so special.”
The Carson Experience will include a series of programs designed to involve residents of all ages. Planned activities include sports clinics, cultural festivals, volunteer opportunities and educational workshops about the Olympics and Paralympics. The city aims to leverage the Games to promote health, wellness and community cohesion.
“We want every Carson resident to feel like they are part of LA28,” said City Manager John Doe. “The Carson Experience is our way of bringing the Olympic spirit to our neighborhoods and ensuring that the benefits of hosting the Games are felt across the community.”
For more information on the Carson Experience and upcoming events, residents can visit the city's official website at http://www.carsonca.gov. The full announcement, including images and bios, is available at https://www.reportable.com/carson-la28.
