For Alabama Coach Harvey Glance the honor has come full circle. He lit the flame at the inaugural Alabama Sports Festival July 16, 1983 in Auburn just seven years after capturing his Olympic Gold medal. As the games celebrate their 25th Anniversary this year they have once again tabbed Glance for the honor just months after he was named a 2008 Olympic coach.
“Harvey is a great symbol for the Olympic movement," Alabama Sports Festival Executive Director Marc Riker said. “We are proud and honored to have Harvey involved with the Alabama Sports Festival. He truly portrays an individual who has dedicated a lifetime to a passion and a commitment to make a difference.”
The opening ceremonies will be at 7 p.m. Friday, June 29, at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC). It will be televised live on ABC 33/40 in the Birmingham/Tuscaloosa market and WSFA 12 in the Montgomery area.
The Alabama Sports Festival program was created to instill the importance of academic excellence and good citizenship while proving an opportunity to compete in Olympic style games. The festival will begin with the Opening Ceremonies on June 29 and conclude on July 1.