Barry Gardner - Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics Official Torchbearer.
It seems like only yesterday but nearly 13 years ago, I had the honor of being chosen to carry the Olympic Flame as an Official Torchbearer during the epic Torch Relay across Canada, leading up to the Opening Ceremonies in Vancouver.
On October 20, 2009 I was involved in a nearly head on collision, resulting in the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) of my right knee tearing.
It could not be repaired.
After almost a year since being selected for the Olympic Torch Relay, I suddenly didn't think I would be able to do it.
But I was determined.
I consulted with my surgeon.
On December 16, 2009 around 10:00 am, he froze and wrapped my right knee.
He said at that point, I couldn't really do any more damage to it and he'd scheduled a surgery to clean it up a few weeks later.
That same day, at approximately 4:30 pm, I was able to stand tall and make my family and my country proud as I fulfilled one of my personally proudest moments.
I took my time as this once in a lifetime opportunity goes by very quickly.
I sped up a little towards the end but backed off when my knee reminded me it's numbness was temporary.
That was a day I will never forget. It...was...COLD.
My Dad Earl, my sister Alanna, my sister in-law Kyla and my nieces Jordan and Drew were all able to come and cheer me on in person.
My wife Jill was able to watch my run live on the internet from down in Sweet Home Alabama.
I have to thank my best friend, George for the video footage he shot that day as he also braved the cold to come out and support me.
At the time, this was the largest Olympic Torch Relay in history.
45,000 kilometers...12,000 Torchbearers.
I was humbled to be a part of it.
I've had this footage since then and had always meant to put this video together.
I hope you enjoy it.
Give it a Like and Subscribe!
"I Believe" by Nikki Yanofsky and associated recording studios/artists
Written by: Stephan Moccio and Alan Frew
With Glowing Hearts!
3 дек 2022
