By Kim Edwards
The last time the Olympic torch burned in the United States was in Atlanta, Georgia.
In December, it will return to Atlanta and begin the first leg of the race that will eventually end in Salt Lake City.
Yet, in order for the torch to cover the 3,500 miles between Atlanta and Salt Lake, 11,500 volunteers will be needed to fulfill the role.
'Torchbearers will be people from all walks of life who have inspired others, whether an individual or a community,' said Mitt Romney, President and CEO of SLOC, in a press release.
'As the flame journeys throughout America, our intention is that it will serve as a catalyst, motivating individuals to strive for excellence and achievement in their lives, effecting positive change in their own communities,' he said.
The Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Torch Relay will celebrate the power of inspiration across America by honoring those who embrace the Olympic Spirit by motivating their peers and community.
SLOC, Coca-Cola and Chevrolet will sponsor the nomination process. Applications are due by May 15, 2001.
Provo, Utah Mayor Lewis K. Billings said he looks forward to the selection of Provo citizens to be torchbearers.
'What better way to honor those who have inspired us than to nominate them to carry this great symbol of the Olympic Movement,' Billings said. 'It will be a great day for Provo when we cheer on our friends, neighbors, teachers, coaches and loved ones as torchbearers.'
On February 5th, Provo not only will have the Olympic torchbearers pass through the city, but it will be an end of the day celebration site as well.
In order to apply to be an Olympic Torchbearer, applicants must write an essay of 50 to 100 words that describes how they or their nominated person meet certain criteria.
Inspiring others, embodying the spirit of the Olympic Movement and motivating others to overcome adversity are some of the criteria for an Olympic torchbearer, according to a news release from the SLOC.
Teachers, coaches, students, police and firemen are just some of the examples of those who could fit these criteria.
'The torchbearer selection process will go to the heart of the Games'' theme,' said Mitt Romney. There is a fire, a spirit that burns in all of us. We are looking for the Olympian in everyone.'
Nomination forms are available online at www.saltlake2002.com, www.chevy.com and www.coke.com.
Applications can also be picked up at the BYUSA office in 3400 of the ELWC and at the Wymount Terrace and Wyview Park offices.