Weightlifter’s proud to carry the Olympic torch
NRHNBE111111e1, Children from Heanor schools present olympic themed artwork to former british olmpic wrestler Louis Martin MBE. Seen children from Mundy juniors Josh Lacey, Niamh Wragg, Olivia Bailey and Georgia Dove, Marlpool infants Keira Banks, Sam Banks, Phoebe Foulke and Chloe davenport, local artist Lesley robinson and Louis Martin.
A FORMER Olympian from Heanor is due to carry the 2012 games’ torch - 48 years after he was pipped to a gold medal.
Four time world champion weightlifter Louis Martin is to carry the flame on June 27 through Lincoln as it makes its 8,000 mile trip around The United Kingdom before the games.
It marks a poignant moment for the 75-year-old who claimed a silver medal in the Tokyo games - despite breaking the world record in his practice lifts.
Louis said: “To be nominated to carry the torch is a great, great honour.
“When I am carrying it though it will be a quick walk for me -rather than a run - now I’m 75!”
Louis, who planned to give the gold medal to his wife as a wedding present if he won, is also due to attend this year’s Games in an official role because he is president of the British Weightlifters Association.
The lifting events are to be held at the ExCel Exhibition Centre in London - and The Heanor man, who also competed in the 1960 Rome Olympics - has already been to a dry-run of the event in January.
“I am definitely looking forward to the Olympics,” he said. “From what I’ve seen so far, it’s going to be the best yet!”
Louis joins Waingroves man John Stamp in carrying the torch on behalf of the Ripley and Heanor area.
While the torch itself will not pass through the region - Amber Valley Borough Council is planning to stage a family fun day on Sunday, May 20, to coincide with the day the Olympic torch convoy passes Derbyshire.
The one-day event is due to take place on Sunday at Swanwick School in the morning and at Ripley Leisure Centre in the afternoon, featuring a guest appearance from Derby County’s mascot Rammie, a performance by Derby Wheel Blazer basketball team, and the original 1948 London Olympic Torch.
Families will get the chance to take part in range of traditional Olympic sports such as archery and swimming as well as football, sitting volleyball and some alternative takes on martial arts and dancing.
Council cabinet member for active and healthier places to live, said: “It’s a huge year for sport and we are aiming to capture some of the infectious spirit being generated by the Olympic Games.
“The event is part of our wider, year round commitment to inspire active and healthier communities throughout Amber Valley through sporting events
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Weather for Ripley
Thursday 23 May 2013
Today
Light showers
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