Prince Albert II Honors Grandfather at Centennial Tribute in Argenteuil

In a poignant ceremony in Argenteuil, attended by HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco and descendants of the Kelly family, a mural was unveiled to honor John B. Kelly Sr., the maternal grandfather of the Monegasque Sovereign. This event commemorated the centenary of Kelly’s Olympic rowing victory at the 1924 Paris Games. The vibrant fresco, created by French urban artist Sckaro, captures Kelly and his rowing partner Paul Costello, celebrating their historic sporting achievement.

During the ceremony, which also saw the renaming of a riverbank promenade and the inauguration of a photographic exhibition chronicling Kelly’s illustrious career, Prince Albert II warmly reminisced about his grandfather's enduring influence. Describing him as a beacon of resilience and sporting excellence, the Prince shared that Kelly's remarkable life story continues to inspire the princely family and beyond. John B. Kelly Jr., another family athlete, was also remembered for his Olympic bronze medal win in 1956.

The event was further distinguished by the presence of Argenteuil Mayor Georges Mothron, who noted the historic significance of a reigning monarch visiting since the era of Louis-Philippe. The tribute underscored the deep-rooted connections between Monaco, France, and the United States, echoing the universal ideals of progress and aspiration, a sentiment once articulated by Prince Albert I. This celebration not only honored a shared heritage but also highlighted the unifying power of sports across generations and geographies.