2002 ParaOlympic Torch COA Mitt Romney

2002 Paralympic Torch COA Mitt Romney  -Salt Lake City, March 7th, 2002 -Rice -Eccles Stadium

The 3d para-athlete inside the stadium carried this Olympic torch, Eric Weilhenmayer (the first blind man to climb Mt. Everest).  The torch itself is blown glass and is in working condition.  It was given to the choreographer for the 2002 Olympics opening and closing show.   The opening ceremony came after the torch run, which included Donny Osmond, Stevie Wonder, and Wynona Rider.   It has been encased in a shadow box for display.   42′ x 33 ‘ display.  The 2002 torch was the first Olympic or Paralympic torch to incorporate a translucent section, allowing the flame to be visible burning within the glass. This design choice echoed the Games’ theme, “Light the Fire Within,” which was also engraved on the torch’s handle. The specific torch model for the Paralympics was nearly identical to the Olympic version, but included the “SALT LAKE 2002 PARALYMPICS” emblem and the Paralympic theme “MIND BODY SPIRIT” inscribed on it.

• Blown Glass Crown: The top five-inch section of the torch was made of borosilicate glass, produced by Schott Scientific Glass in Croatia. The use of glass represented purity, winter, ice, and nature.
• Inner Copper Structure: Inside the glass crown was a geometric copper structure designed to hold and protect the flame. Copper was chosen to represent fire, warmth, and Utah’s rich mining history.
• Icicle Shape: The overall design was shaped like a stalactite or icicle, symbolizing winter sports and the rugged landscape of the American West. The slight curve of the torch represented speed and fluidity.
• Materials: In addition to glass and copper, the torch body was made of an aluminum alloy with a contrasting aged finish in the middle and a high-polish finish at the bottom, representing a bridge between the past and the future when the torchbearer held it.