Torch Relay in Athens Images

The Torch in Athens

An entire city, usually crawling with college life and activity, was unified under a single event on July 15. The city of Athens was almost entirely shut down in preparation for the torch passing through. As seen in the images above, downtown Athens was completely clustered with people and only a small strip was left for runners to move with the torch. The Olympic torch saw many of Athens’ great landmarks. From the images above, the torch passed Sanford Stadium, where the soccer games would eventually be held. Billy Payne, pictured in the bottom image in the previous page and in front of Sanford Stadium, had one of the great honors of carrying the torch throughout Athens. Payne rightfully earned the honors by his “sheer determination and a unique ability to unite others in pursuit of his long-shot ambition” (Henry). Payne, who was born and raised in Athens around the University of Georgia, played a crucial role in the planning and execution of bringing the 1996 Olympic games to Atlanta. Part of his creative thinking included using surrounding smaller cities to contribute to their success. Payne was more than happy to bring the Olympics to his alma mater, and the games were ultimately so successful due to his contributions. Additionally, the Olympic torch being run through Athens as well as other southern cities was important for the larger message of peace and unity among rivaling countries, races, and ideals.

Works Cited

Henry, Scott. “Billy Payne's Olympic Triumph.” UGA Today, 25 Apr. 2018.

“Olympic Torch.” Olympics, Hargrett Library, Athens, 1996, pp. 1-4, hmfa.libs.uga.edu/hmfa/view?docld=ead/UA005_1-ead.xml;query=hairy%20dawg%20olympics;brand=default.