Samsung looking for Torchbearers for London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay

Wednesday 14 September 2011

Today (14 September), Samsung, a presenting partner of the Olympic Torch Relay, has opened up a nomination process at the University of Surrey to find inspiring young students who will be given a chance to carry the Olympic Flame in the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay.

To celebrate the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay, Samsung will create a unique Torchbearer nomination programme that will reflect the core values of the Olympic movement and the rich heritage of the institution. Through this programme arranged by Samsung, students and  members of staff will be nominated to be a Torchbearer in the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay. The successful nominees will be part of the Olympic Torch Relay which starts in Lands End on the 19th May.  8,000 inspirational Torchbearers will pass the Olympic Flame as it makes its way around the UK on its 70 day journey, travelling within a one hour journey time of an estimated 95% of the population.

Professor Christopher Snowden, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Surrey comments: “The University of Surrey is delighted to be working with Samsung to make the most of this great opportunity for our students and staff. In the coming weeks, we will be putting this programme to good use and nominating students and staff who have demonstrated excellence in their work place, area of study or extra curricular activities.”

Mr. David Song, Managing Director, UK&I, Samsung Electronics Ltd said: “London 2012 is focused on encouraging young people to take up sport. Building upon our long term partnership with the higher education sector in UK, and as a Presenting Partner of the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay, it was only natural to work with universities to find London 2012 Torchbearers. We are keen to share Samsung’s passion for the Olympic Games with students and are confident the universities will nominate those that always go the extra mile, to make London 2012 an Olympic Games for everyone.”

The University of Surrey is one of 31 educational establishments in the UK that was approached by Samsung to promote the nomination process. All the nominations will be co-judged by Samsung and university representatives with names being put forward to the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG) by the end of October.

Samsung aims to strengthen its existing relationship with universities with a mission to support educational institutions’ future investment programmes and facilitate the development of student skills and capabilities over the long term as a permanent legacy of London 2012 Olympic Games.

The programme will culminate in an Awards Ceremony in December 2011 to recognise students and staff who have participated in the programme from all 31 educational establishments and have been nominated as London 2012 Torchbearers.

Media Enquiries

Peter La, Press Office at the University of Surrey, Tel: +44 (0)1483 689191, or Email mediarelations@surrey.ac.uk