Celebration in Dunellen in honor of Olympian Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone

The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris have already ended several weeks ago, but in New Jersey the celebrations continue, and one of Dunellen's very own fans is coming home.

Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone has returned to her old stomping ground.

Family, friends and fans braved the rain to catch a glimpse of the local hero and maybe take a photo with him.

Paige Witzel from Middlesex shared her memories of the track and field star.

“My cousin went to school with Sydney, so she would often walk down the street and play with us when my brother and I were little,” says Witzel.

“It's just like coming home. So many memories, so many familiar faces. And I know they're cheering me on at every competition. So it's always a joy to come back and celebrate with them,” says McLaughlin-Levrone.

Present to pay their final respects to the Olympian were people from the same community where she grew up and trained, including former teachers and Mike McCabe, her coach from Union Catholic High School.

“I always hoped she could enjoy it because of all the pressure, and I think she's learned or figured out how to do all that and enjoy the process at the same time,” McCabe says.

Fan Gianna Tolomeo from Middlesex never misses an opportunity to watch McLaughlin-Levrone run.

“We've been watching her since her first run and I got this flag signed from her first run and I've been here every time she's been here and we just love watching her and then seeing her win,” Tolomeo says.

The Middlesex County native won two gold medals and set six world records in Paris this summer.

“It's just a joy and a pride to know that I come here. To know that I'm representing New Jersey and trying to do my best. That's what I want to do every time I step out on the track,” says McLaughlin-Levrone.

To top off the evening, the Olympian received a key to the city and a street in Dunellen is now called McLaughlin-Levrone Lane.