March 2 - Thousands of cheering fans today welcome Germany’s Olympic medalists, including double champion Maria Riesch (pictured), and team from the Vancouver 2010 Olympic at a special reception in Munich in an event that helped showcase the city's bid to the 2018 Games.

 
The successful athletes were given a civic reception in Munich’s City Hall before a celebration party began in front of Munich`s famous Victory Arch in the centre of the city. 

Germany finished second in the Vancouver 2010 medal table with a total of 30 medals, 10 of which were gold.  

The German team was invited by the Lord Mayor of Munich, Christian Ude, to sign the Golden Book of Munich.

Willy Bogner, the chief executive of Munich 2018, said: "I am absolutely delighted with this extraordinary welcome party for our athletes in Munich.

"It is the first time all the national athletes have gathered together in one place to meet fans and supporters from all over Germany.

"This is a great experience.

"If Munich stages the winter Games in 2018, I am certain that the Bavarian fans will ensure a non-stop Olympic celebration like today.'

The whole event was made more symbolic with an official send off for Germany’s Paralympic team competing in the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games March 12. 


Related stories
February 2010: Munich 2018 bid boosted by German success and big TV figures
February 2010: Exclusive - Munich 2018 to be promoted by Bundesliga
February 2010: Gretzky adds support to Munich 2018 bid
February 2010: Witt gives Munich early edge over Annecy and Pyeongchang in 2018 race
February 2010: BMW appoints Witt as ambassador for Munich 2018