Ironton community supports Olympian McKenzie Long

IRONTON, OH (WOWK)— The Paris Olympics are set to begin on Friday and in Ironton, members of the community are watching closely for runner McKenzie Long to make her debut.

Long qualified for Team USA in the 200-meter at the end of June.

Members of the Ironton community have rallied around Long. Valerie Freeman, owner of Treasures of the Valley, has made-to-order T-shirts with graphics relating to Long and the Olympics.

Part of the proceeds from the sale of the shirts go towards travel expenses for Long’s dad and stepmom.

Another store has a homemade banner wishing Long luck, and inviting members to sign and leave their well wishes, too.

Long will compete on the world stage for the first time on Aug. 4, at 4:55 a.m. EST, in the 200-meter qualifying race.

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