Limited edition official 2016 Rio de Janeiro Summer Olympics torch used during the Olympic relay and commemorating Maurren Maggi, a track and field athlete who became the first Brazilian in history to win an individual women's Olympic gold medal when she won the long jump event at the Beijing 2008 Games. Numbered 3/16, the torch is constructed of recycled aluminum and colored resin, measures 27″ in length and 3.5″ at its widest point, and was designed by Sao Paulo studio Chelles & Hayashi and manufactured by Recam Laser. The torch features a white body that automatically expands upon being lit to reveal multicolored segments drawn from the hues of the Brazilian flag, representing the natural wonders surrounding the host city. The front bears an oval-shaped piece of customized leatherette, which bears the Rio 2016 logo and an authenticity label. The Rio Olympic emblem also adorns the top. Includes the original brown carrying bag, tube, display stand, and official Rio 2016 memorabilia folder, which includes a certificate of authenticity signed in blue felt tip by Maggi.
The torch relay began in Olympia on April 21, and concluded on August 5 at Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janiero, after visiting over three hundred of Brazil’s towns and cities. Maggi carried the Olympic torch through the streets of her hometown in São Carlos on July 18. A record number of countries participated in the Rio Games, including first time entrants Kosovo and South Sudan. Ten thousand and nine hundred athletes participated in 306 medalling events of 45 sports disciplines. A rare opportunity to own a relay torch from the most recent Olympic games.
