Dougherty Comprehensive High School, Albany Recreation & Parks Service honor 1980 Olympic qualifier

ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Star athlete and 1980 Olympic qualifier Stanley Floyd was honored at Dougherty County High School on Monday, March 17.

Floyd, an Albany native, returned home to be honored by the school system and the Albany Recreation & Parks service.

On Monday, a ceremony held at the Dougherty County High School, honored his service as a coach, his spirit as an accomplished athlete, and his achievement as a qualifier in the 1980 Summer Olympic Games. The Dougherty County School System presented Floyd with a plaque and challenge coin, naming him a distinguished Dougherty County alum.

“I am completely overwhelmed. I did not expect this, this is home. Really, Truly humbled to feel the love,” said Floyd.

After accepting the awards, the former track star motivated students and offered advice to upcoming 2025 graduates. Floyd consistently consulted his mentors when entering the real world.

”When you move on be prepared for what’s coming your way, it’s always good to have the (School) staff behind you, you can call them up and ask questions. In Your next step, you may not know where to go, they are here for you now, they are going to be there for you when you move on. Don’t feel like you can’t call home, this is home," said Floyd.

The city of Albany’s Recreation & Parks, is also honoring Floyd.

On Saturday, March 22, they will host a race in his honor at Hugh Mills Stadium.

The Inaugural Stanley Floyd Invitational will offer 32 different events for children ages 6 and up both boys and girls. Events will range from the standing long jump up to a 1600-meter dash.

To register, click here.

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