Oly: Oly torch moves across northern NSW

AAP General News (Australia)
08-21-2000
Oly: Oly torch moves across northern NSW

SYDNEY, Aug 21 AAP - Distance runner Shaun Creighton was presented with probably his
easiest run of the year tonight when he carried the Olympic torch through his home town
of Armidale in northern New South Wales.

The 33-year-old athlete has already qualified for the 5,000 and 10,000 metres at next
month's Games.

The flame travelled more than 300km today through northern New South Wales from Moree
to Inverell before finishing in the New England university town of Armidale.

The first Aboriginal to represent Australia in boxing at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, Frank
Roberts, also carried the torch today, as did Wayne Sharpe who will take part in the powerlifting
at the Paralympics in October.

Torch celebrations in Armidale included 100 local children forming the five Olympic
rings at the end of their dance routine.

The flame heads north tomorrow when it travels 204 km to Tenterfield via Glen Innes.

En route it will stop briefly for an Aboriginal welcoming ceremony and the torch will
stop again in the afternoon at the Australian Standing Stones.

A rendition of former Tenterfield resident Peter Allen's famous song I Still Call Australia
Home is expected later on after permission was given by Games sponsor Ansett earlier this
month.

The airline has put a gag on the tune at all other Olympic events because of its strong
association with competitor Qantas.

AAP tdw/jw/cjh/de

KEYWORD: OLY TORCH NIGHTLEAD

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