Utah State University Extension 4-Her Kelcie Thomas was among 10 teens selected by Coca-Cola to serve as a torchbearer for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay.
Thomas' selection was based on her involvement in a community-oriented program showing dedication in the area of balanced living. The Oak City native helped educate over 245,000 elementary school children about healthy eating and exercise habits through her project, "Creating a Healthier
You."Thomas began her 4-H career as a freshman in high school, where she served as teen council secretary, vice president and president. While a junior at Delta High School two years ago, she completed a research paper on childhood obesity and was inspired to start her 4-H/Sterling Scholar project to improve the lives of youths. She was also the Southwest Region 4-H Ambassador. Millard County Extension 4-H leaders, Darlene Scott and Jolene Johnson, nominated Thomas to serve as Olympic Torchbearer.
"Millard County 4-H nominated Kelcie to be an Olympic Torchbearer because of the outstanding qualities and balanced accomplishments of this fine young lady," said Scott. "We are very proud to have Kelcie represent 4-H as a Torchbearer for the Olympic Winter Games. We believe that the values and life skills she has developed through her years in 4-H helped prepare her for this opportunity."
Thomas said the whole thing was a surprise to her.
"I didn't even know that I was nominated, so I was pretty excited when I found out I was selected," said Thomas.
Thomas ran the torch for 300 meters on Jan. 18 through Calgary, Canada, as it is making its way to Vancouver for the Opening Ceremony of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games on Feb. 12. The Olympic Torch Relay will last for 106 days, cover more than 27,000 miles and link more than 1,000 communities and places of interest throughout Canada.
This article was originally published in Utah State University Cooperative Extension's ExtensionNews. Congratulations Kelcie!
No comments:
Post a Comment