Utah Olympian Carries Torch in Italy, Looks Ahead to 2034 Games

Utahn Athletes Carry Olympic Torch Ahead of 2034 Winter Games

SARONNO, Italy — Despite rainy conditions, Utahns Amy Garff and David Huntsman recently participated in the Olympic torch relay in Italy, carrying the flame as it makes its journey toward Milan for the 2026 Winter Games and, symbolically, toward Utah’s hosting of the 2034 Winter Olympics.

Amy Garff carried the torch through Saronno, Italy, just north of Milan on Wednesday, February 4th, surrounded by family, cheering children, and local spectators. She described the experience as “unforgettable” and recalled the excitement surrounding the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Games.

“I do remember the feeling of 2002, and it is that same excitement,” Garff said. “It was amazing.”

Garff was invited to participate by the Utah 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Committee. For her, the run represented both a personal moment and an opportunity to promote education and youth development through her family’s foundation, which has supported learning and literacy initiatives in Utah for over 20 years.

“If we can help these kids seek that excellence in their academics and in their athletics and in whatever arena they happen to choose, then that’s a win,” she said.

Just two days prior, on Tuesday, February 2nd, David Huntsman carried the Olympic flame in Merate, a northern suburb of Milan, despite rainfall. Huntsman used the opportunity to highlight the importance of mental health awareness, a cause deeply significant to his family and the state of Utah.

Huntsman emphasized his hope that the Utah 2034 Games will prioritize mental health support for athletes. He has already begun conversations with the International Olympic Committee about integrating such support more visibly into Olympic culture.

“Our foundation, our family foundation, wants to partner and be a good partner with the Olympics, so we can talk about mental health and use it as an opportunity to benefit all Utahns and all people,” Huntsman said.

Huntsman also spoke about the importance of the “Olympic Legacy” – the lasting impact of the Games beyond the competition itself. “It’s not just about the Games, it’s not just about the competition, but it’s what’s left behind when the Games are over with,” he explained.

Both Garff and Huntsman’s participation in the torch relay comes as Utah prepares to host the Winter Olympics in 2034. Garff expressed her enthusiasm for the future, stating, “wait for the people of Utah to feel this once again in 2034.” She described the experience as “joyful” and “exhilarating,” and said she could have continued running for miles.

Garff hopes her run will inspire Utah’s youth to embrace values of excellence, respect, and perseverance, both in and out of the classroom.