With other activities happening next year, one can hardly imagine more drama. Big events taking place are the eclipse, elections, and the Olympics. The Olympics have special traditional happenings even preceding the opening ceremonies. One item that is watched by most of the world is the lighting and passing of the Olympic torch. But what about this torch? What makes it special?
Torch Meaning
The Olympic torch does have meaning. According to the Washington Post, the lit torch symbolizes the light of spirit, knowledge, and life [1]. While runners do not necessarily pass the torch from runner to runner, they pass the flame. This symbolizes the passing of spirit, knowledge, and life from generation to generation.
The 2024 Olympic Torch further symbolizes equality, water, and peacefulness. Parenthetically, it is made from recycled steel, the color of champagne.
Who Hosts The Next Olympics?
The 2024 Olympics will be in France. As France is known for its wine, the champagne color of the torch represents France. Although the torch begins the relay in Greece, it will travel by boat to France. Runners will take it through the countryside, showcasing the beauty of France. That route will be announced in the fall of 2023. The relay begins 68 days before the start of the Olympics.
Torch Beginning
All Olympics begin in Olympia, Greece. Although we live in a modern world, the flame is ignited as it has for many years: with sun rays through a parabolic mirror. The torch will be passing through France beginning in April 2024.
Runners
Almost anyone can be a relay runner for the torch. However, one needs to be over the age of 15 to apply. Although you do not need to be a citizen of France to be a relay runner, you will need to be in France at the designated time. One can find out more about being a torch-bearer here.
Notes:
- ^ {{washingtonpost.com: The History of Olympic Torch Relays}} (go back ↩)
