The Olympic torch relay is a tradition that marks the official beginning of the Summer Olympics. Starting in Athens, the ancient home of the Olympics, the flame travels from country to country until it reaches the host city of the current year’s competition. This year, the torch relay began in April and will culminate in Paris, where the opening ceremony will take place.
While many iconic athletes have had the honor of carrying the torch, there have also been instances where non-athletes were chosen for this prestigious task. One such example is rapper Snoop Dogg, who is set to carry the torch in the Paris suburb of Saint-Denis. In anticipation of this event, Snoop Dogg shared an image on social media, building excitement for the big day.
In addition to Snoop Dogg, there have been other notable individuals who have carried the Olympic torch in the past. Nelson Mandela, the legendary human rights activist, carried the torch ahead of the 2004 games in Athens. Despite his declining health, Mandela held the flame on Robben Island, where he was imprisoned for 18 years for his opposition to apartheid in South Africa.
Another famous torchbearer was Arnold Schwarzenegger, who has had a diverse career as a bodybuilder, movie star, and politician. He carried the torch in both the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver and the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, showcasing his versatility and global appeal.
Will.i.am, the lead singer of the Black Eyed Peas, also had the opportunity to run with the torch before the 2012 Olympics in London. However, he faced criticism for tweeting during his run and mispronouncing the name of the town he was running through.
Supermodel Gisele Bündchen carried the torch in her home country of Brazil during the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Known for her successful modeling career and high-profile relationships, Bündchen added a touch of glamour to the torch relay before making an appearance at the opening ceremony.
Ryan Seacrest, best known for his role as the host of American Idol, ran with the torch ahead of the 2004 games in Athens. Reflecting on the experience years later, Seacrest expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of such a historic event.
Overall, the Olympic torch relay continues to be a symbol of unity and celebration, bringing together athletes and non-athletes alike to participate in this time-honored tradition. Each torchbearer, whether famous or not, contributes to the rich tapestry of the Olympic Games and helps to make the event truly special.