Torch Bearer


By Michael Lovejoy
6th grade, Gunston Middle School

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Although Gunston Middle School, in Arlington, Va., is very close to the capital of the United States, we are still a normal middle school. Just lately we have had one of our staff members, Mr. Fred Hufford, chosen as an Olympic Torch Bearer. Mr. Hufford is a seventh grade guidance counselor and friend to everyone.

To be a Torch Bearer, United Way held an essay contest. You were to send in an essay on what you had done for your community. Even though Mr. Hufford was the one who had contributed his help, his mother sent in the essay. Out of 5,500 other essays, his mother's was one of those picked.

Mr. Hufford is going to run with the torch a quarter-mile through Alexandria, Virginia. It is an Olympic tradition to carry the torch and this has been practiced ever since the first Olympic games. Each Torch Bearer will have his or her own running escort, in case the Torch Bearer can not keep the torch moving

The torch weighs a little over three pounds, is 32 inches long, and is partly made of pecan. The Olympic torch is available to the Torch Bearers for $275. The Torch Bearers have specific uniforms and can not wear any other clothing articles with company logos. Over 9,000 other people will be running along with Mr. Hufford.

Mr. Hufford says he is both filled with surprise and joy at being a Torch Bearer.

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