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Torch run, a family affair

When 93-year-old war veteran Gordon Thorsteinson from 100 Mile House carried the Olympic Torch as a member of the 2010 torch Relay Team, it resulted in a real family celebration.
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Son Brian Thorsteinson

When 93-year-old war veteran Gordon Thorsteinson from 100 Mile House carried the Olympic Torch as a member of the 2010 torch Relay Team, it resulted in a real family celebration.

Four generations of his family came together Jan. 28 in 100 Mile House day to celebrate, and all had their own Olympic experience to talk about.

Riding on his scooter, Gordon toted the torch along the Highway 97 frontage road, aided by his son, Brian Thorsteinson, who also lives in the South Cariboo. Brian trained with his dad prior to the run, using Gordon’s cane as a practice torch.

Their cheering section included Stephanie Lindal, Gordon’s great-great niece from Victoria who had run as a torchbearer earlier that day in Barriere.

Stephanie’s grandfather, Vic Lindal, who is also Gordon’s nephew, was there to support his uncle and also revisit a town that holds many dear memories for him.

Vic was once Canada’s national volleyball coach, and in the late ‘70s, many of his family visits to 100 Mile House were coupled with volleyball clinics he would hold for the local high school students.

Vic’s other claim to fame is as a commentator at the 1976, ‘84, ‘88 and ‘92 Summer Olympic volleyball events.