Rio announces 16 Olympic torch bearers, all Brazilians
Posted February 24, 2016 6:00 am
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) - Three-time Wimbledon champion Maria Bueno and two-time Olympic volleyball champion Fabiana are among the first 16 of 12,000 torch bearers to be named for the games in Rio de Janeiro.
All the initial picks by organizers are Brazilians, with Olympic medalists Adriana Behar (beach volleyball), Isabel Swan (sailing) and Gustavo Borges (swimming) also among the 16. Clodoaldo Silva, the winner of six Paralympic swimming golds, will also be involved.
Starting on May 3, the flame will be carried from Brasilia to the opening ceremony at Maracana Stadium on Aug. 5, visiting 329 Brazilian towns and cities over 95 days.
The traditional lighting of the flame will take place in Olympia, Greece, on April 21.
Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked.
If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.