Posted by: Dennis Hinkamp on Jan 14, 2010
Utah 4-Her to Carry Olympic Torch in Relay
Untitled from USU Extension on Vimeo.
Jan. 13, 2010
Writer: Julene Reese, 435-797-0810
Contact: Kelcie Thomas, 435-406-1439
USU EXTENSION 4-HER TORCHBEARER FOR 2010 OLYMPICS
LOGAN ? 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.”
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. Through a breakfast fundraiser, an online contest and help from local businesses, she raised money to buy equipment for physical education classes. Thomas taught local dance and nutrition classes and distributed jump ropes with a pamphlet covering food and nutrition facts to all the schools in Utah.
Now a freshman at Utah Valley University on academic scholarship, she is majoring in physical education and recreation with an emphasis in exercise science and said her experience in 4-H has been a valuable asset to her life.
“Through my many 4-H activities, I have learned lessons in cooperation as well as leadership that I will carry with me throughout my life.”
Thomas began her 4-H career as a freshman in high school, where she served as teen council secretary, vice president and president. 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.
According to Scott, she has always displayed a high degree of integrity, responsibility
and ambition.
“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. “I have never been on an airplane or out of the country before, so I had to go through the process of getting a passport. Coca-Cola will fly my mom and I there, and my dad and brothers are driving and will meet us. It is all very exciting.”
She is the daughter of Scott and Tammy Thomas of Oak City.
Thomas will run the torch for 300 meters on Jan. 18 through Calgary, Canada, as it makes 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.
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