Official 1976 Montreal Olympics torch that was presented to Canadian Olympic administrator James Worrall. Comprised of aluminum and designed by Georges Huel and Michel Daillaire, the torch measures 26″ in length and 3″ at its widest point. The simple yet distinct torch consists of a red handle emblazoned with the Montreal Olympics emblem, below which is an affixed plate engraved with Worrall’s name. The upper 'basket' used to carry the flame was colored black so as to make the flame stand out more prominently. The torch exhibits minimal scuffs and traces of wear. About 1,200 torchbearers participated in the relay, which lasted just four days from July 13 to July 17, and covered 775 km.
After competing in hurdles for Canada in the Berlin 1936 Summer Olympics, Worrall put forth a lifetime of effort in favor of the Canadian Olympic cause. From 1964 to 1968, Worrall was the president of the Canadian Olympic Committee, and from 1967 to 1989 he was a member of the International Olympic Committee. He was a member of the Board of Directors of the organizing committees for the Montreal 1976 Summer Olympics and the Calgary 1988 Winter Olympics and was inducted into Canada's Sports Hall of Fame in 1987.
From the estate of James Worrall.
