Torch Relay 101: The Paralympic Torch Relay
By: LA28 Staff
As Los Angeles prepares to host its third Olympic Games and first Paralympic Games in 2028, the lead-up to LA28 will begin with Olympic and Paralympic Torch Relays.
But did you know each Torch Relay has its own history, traditions and role in building toward its respective Games?
We've already explored the key terms, origins and history of the Torch Relays, so let's take a closer look at the Paralympic Torch Relay and what makes it so unique.
What is the Paralympic Torch Relay?
The Paralympic Torch Relay is a historic tradition that has occurred ahead of every Paralympic Games since 1988. The Paralympic flame is carried on a distinct route by torchbearers, building excitement and national pride along the way. The Relay culminates with the lighting of the cauldron at the Opening Ceremony to officially signal the start of the Paralympic Games competition.
What is the history of the Paralympic Torch Relay?
While the first Paralympic Games were held in Rome in 1960, it wasn't until the Seoul Games in 1988 when the Paralympic Torch Relay tradition began. That flame was lit at Mani Mountain on Kangwa Island, South Korea and was carried by 282 torchbearers over a 105km route.
From 1988 until the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games, the Paralympic flame was traditionally lit in a single location within the host nation or city, following a linear Relay model identical to the Olympic Torch Relay. However, since 2014, the Paralympic flame has been lit in Stoke Mandeville, United Kingdom. Stoke Mandeville holds a special place in the Paralympic Movement as the home of the first Paralympic sport competition for athletes in wheelchairs held in 1948 and is considered the spiritual home of the Paralympic Games.
How does the Paralympic Torch Relay differ from the Olympic Torch Relay?
There are a few key differences between the Paralympic Torch Relay and the Olympic Torch Relay—starting with the fact that the two Relays travel on completely different routes ahead of their respective Games.
Unlike the single Olympic flame, the Paralympic flame can be comprised of multiple flames traveling in different locations simultaneously. The concurrent flames later reunite at the Paralympic flame unifying ceremony, which takes place in the Host City at least two days before the Opening Ceremony of the Paralympic Games.
Additionally, some visual elements of the Paralympic Torch Relay, including the torch, have a distinct visual identity that differs from that of its Olympic counterpart.
What can you tell us about the LA28 Paralympic Torch Relay?
LA28 will mark only the second time a U.S. Summer Games has had a Paralympic Torch Relay. Atlanta 1996 was the only other. The LA28 Paralympic Torch Relay will begin following the conclusion of the Olympic Games in August 2028. The Paralympic Torch Relay's start date, U.S. starting location and route will be announced at a later time.
Is there an official emblem for the LA28 Paralympic Torch Relay?
Yes, the Paralympic Torch Relay 'A' is built from flames of varying sizes, scales and colors, and the design honors the unique places, cultures and communities that will be brought together during the LA28 Paralympic Torch Relay. It celebrates individual identity while uniting diverse expressions into a single symbol.
A composition of varied shapes, scales and colors highlights the diverse communities and individuals who will connect with the Paralympic flame during the Relay. The glowing gradient flame at the center of the emblem represents the Paralympic Movement and the athletes at its heart.
How can people stay informed about the latest Torch Relays happenings?
Stay tuned! In the months ahead we'll share more on how each journey will come to life, as well as the official routes and the process to become a torchbearer.
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