Sailor Cook (pictured top), who competed in the 49er class at last summer's Games – as well as at Beijing 2008, and runner Reid, who competed in the 5,000 metres in London, received their honours at a special ceremony in Toronto alongside 15 individuals who have helped to build the Olympic Movement and contributed to the success of Canada's Olympic teams.

These included three-time Olympic rowing champion Marnie McBean, Los Angeles 1984 judo athlete Fred Blaney, bobsleigh Olympian Robert Storey – also a former International Olympic Committee (IOC) member and President International Bobsleigh Federation (FIBT) – and Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) vice-president Gordon Peterson.

Cortina d'Ampezzo 1956 Olympian Ann Johnston Colman, International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) vice-president Slava Corn, Nagano 1998 Chef de Mission Brian Wakelin, Athens 2004 Chef de Mission David Bedford and Rowing Canada President Mike Murphy also received the medal at the ceremony.

"I'm so grateful for this honour," said Cook, who competed with Hunter Lowden to come third in their first race at London 2012 but did not qualify for the medal race.

"It was amazing to represent my country as a member of the 2012 Olympic team, and now to receive this medal today - it's as if my Olympic adventure continues well past the Games."


McBean, a double gold medallist at Barcelona 1992 who also won gold and bronze at Atlanta 1996, added: "I thank the Canadian Olympic Committee for this honour.

"While my career as an athlete is over, I know that I can continue to use my experience to help new generations of athletes who represent Canada at Olympic Games.

"Today's event certainly reminds me of the importance of those who contribute behind the scenes, and I am honoured to be included among such an inspiring group of builders."

More 60,000 Canadians from various backgrounds will be recognised with Diamond Jubilee medals during the year in recognition of their contributions to their fellow citizens, communities and country.

COC President Marcel Aubut explained that the sporting figures honoured have been awarded the medal as "perfect examples of excellence" in the nation.

"Each one of these athletes and builders has set a perfect example of excellence in our great country," he said.

"Through their dedication to sport and the Canadian Olympic Movement, these outstanding individuals have inspired countless Canadians with their accomplishments on and off the field of play.

"We congratulate them today on receiving the Queens Diamond Jubilee Medal, and we thank them for their contributions."

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