The New Zealander won the 800m at the 1960 Olympics in Rome and the 800m and 1500m at the 1964 Games in Tokyo.

 

The petition said: "Peter Snell is widely regarded as one of the greatest middle distance runners of all time.

 

"He commands unrivalled respect not only for his monumental track accomplishments but also for the integrity with which he competed.

 

"Snell's participation will enhance the value of the medal presentations for both viewers and competitors.

 

"These moments are precious.

 

"They should showcase the pure values of the Olympic ideal, integrity and dignity, and respect for supreme achievement.

 

"Nothing could be more fitting than that the champions of the future, at the event considered to be the pinnacle of sport, are honored in this way by one of the greatest athletes in Olympic history."

 

The organisers of the petition, whose target is to get 10,000 signatures, hope that the fact that Sebastian Coe, the chairman of London 2012, won the 1500m at the 1980 and 1984 Olympics and is a former world record holder for the 800m and 1500m will influence the decision.

 

The petition said: "After all, following his [Coe's] 800m world record run at the 1979 Bislett Games in Oslo, Lord Coe was greeted in the cafeteria at the by a standing ovation from what he described as a "treasure trove of Olympic champions and world record holders."

 

"This is an experience few people are ever accorded."

 

Sir Peter's achievements nearly half-a-century ago are becoming increasingly recognised.

 

Next week the 70-year-old professor will return from his current home in Texas to unveil a statue of himself at Cook's Gardens in Wanganui, where in 1962 he set a world record for the mile of 3min 54.4sec.

 

Last month he was also given a knighthood by the New Zealand Government.

 

"Moreover, connecting Snell's achievements and values with a younger audience fits the legacy aims of the 2012 Olympics.

 

"A younger audience is now becoming increasingly aware of Peter Snell's legendary performances via the archival footage now available.

 

"This audience wishes to honour his singular accomplishments.

 

"It is certainly possible that Snell will still hold the New Zealand national record for the 800m on the date of the ceremonies, more than 50 years after he set it.

 

"But Peter Snell's significance as a role model is not limited to his marvelous accomplishments on the track.

 

"His role in furthering his later career through education is another inspiration to young athletes.

 

"Peter Snell commands enormous respect worldwide.

 

"By asking Snell to present the medals, the IOC (International Olympic Committee) honours the totality of the Olympic spirit and ideals; the race medalists; past, present and future Games competitors and runners of all abilities; and all the attendees and the millions of viewers."

 

To sign the petition click here.