In 1988, 11-year-old Hawley Bennett was walking back and forth along her driveway carrying a bottle of dish soap. Why? To make sure her arm wouldn’t get tired while carrying the Olympic Torch.
Bennett had entered a contest to carry the torch through Langley, B.C. Out of 500 contestants she was chosen as one of three finalists and gave a speech in front of 1,000 people. “I remember everything about that day, right down to the horrible puffy white blouse my mother made me wear,” said Bennett.
Unfortunately, Bennett didn’t win the contest and was devastated. “It’s something I have always wanted to do, and I didn’t know I would get another chance.”
Luckily she did.
Bennett will carry the Olympic Torch in Richmond, B.C., on Feb. 9. Her approximate run time is 6:58 p.m., and her number is: OTR 103-209. The run is 400 meters long.
An accomplished eventer, Bennett is now an Olympian herself—she competed Livingstone at the Athens Olympic Games in 2004.
“Being a part of the opening ceremony in Athens was an unforgettable experience. I’m a full-fledged Canadian and having the winter Olympics in my hometown will be incredible. I’m excited to carry the torch in B.C. because my family and friends will be able to watch me,” she said.
ADVERTISEMENT
Bennett plans to attend the Winter Olympic Games for the first time this year.
She also hopes to earn a spot for the 2012 Olympic Games in London, England, with Gin & Juice.
