The Olympic Torch Relay is one of the most important parts of the Olympics Games. The Olympic flame is a reflection of the mankind’s positive values and his association with fire. The Olympic Torch serves as a connection between the older generation and the modern generation. It also connects the ancient games with the modern games.
The Olympic Torch relay starts with a fire being lighted at Olympia in Greece, which was notable for hosting the ancient Olympic Games. This is done usually a few months before an Olympic event is scheduled to start. Then, this flame is carried on to the host city for that year’s Olympics, mainly via foot by runners but also by other means. Along the way, the Olympic torch is being passed between runners until it reaches its destination- the host city. This serves to present a message of peace and friendship among people and countries through which it passes. The relay finally ends when the fire it lit in the Cauldron on the Opening Day of the Olympics. This indicates the beginning of the Olympic Games for the year.
Torch of the Olympics
The torch is an important part of the Olympic Games. It symbolizes the spirit of the games as well as peace and unity among the nations. Moreover, the torch is used to bring people from all over the world together with each edition of the Olympics Games.
Furthermore, the torch for the 2024 Summer Olympics has been designed by Mathieu Lehanneur and has been created by ArcelorMittal, notable for being one of the leading steel companies in the world. Furthermore, The torch has been designed on the themes of water, peacefulness and equality. While the wave and the three-dimensional designs on the torch reflect the theme of water. Remarkably, the curves and the rounded lines of the torch reflect peacefulness, and the perfect symmetrical design of the torch reflects equality. Notably, the same torch will be used for both the Olympic and Paralympic events to further show the theme of equality.
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How many Olympic torches are there?
There is only one torch for each edition of the Olympics Games as per theguardian.com. However, a lantern is also kept along with the torch for emergency purposes so that even if the torch gets blown out, the lantern can be relit with the mother flame. Notably, the Olympic torch was first used in 1936. It was designed by Walter Lemcke and made by the Krupp Company.
For the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, ArcelorMittal has designed 2,000 torches to be used throughout the event.
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Who carries the torch at the Olympics?
The Olympic Torch is carried on foot by runners. However, they can also be carried via other methods. The 2024 Olympic torch was ignited through sunlight at Olympia, Greece. Then it traveled to Athens, Greece and crossed the Mediterranean Sea via Belem, the impressive three-masted ship and arrived at Marseille. From there, it started its journey across different regions of France before it arrived in Paris.
Notable torch bearers for the 2024 edition include Halle Berry, Shaun White, Charles Leclerc, Alexandra Coletti, Xiaoxin Yang, Ruby Rinaldi and Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco.
Notably, this was the first time that the Olympic Flame passed through Monaco since the 1968 Winter Olympics in Grenoble, France.
What is the meaning of torch bearer in Olympics?
The torch bearer in the Olympics symbolizes the richness and diversity of the society. They also engage in openness, transmission and the spirit of sharing through this adventure.
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FAQ's On Olympic Torch Relay
A. The Olympic torch relay starts in Olympia, Greece.
A. No, the Olympic torch travels from Greece to the host country of the Olympics.
A. The Olympic torch stays lit throughout the event and is extinguished after the closing ceremony.
A. Yes, torch bearers still carry the Olympic torch throughout the host country to the host city.
A. 11,000 torchbearers will carry the Olympic torch for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games.
