News Item
Hackney Community College student carries London 2012 Olympic Torch
23 July 2012
Hackney Community College (HCC) student Alpha Kamara was cheered on by staff as he carried the Olympic Torch through Stoke Newington on day 65 of the Torch Relay.
Due to a childhood illness, Alpha developed difficulties that have prohibited him from doing things that are generally taken for granted.
He was nominated by his tutor Gillian Adamson who said that “since joining Hackney Community College, he has shown extraordinary determination and perseverance in developing his skills”.
This year Alpha was also recognised as he was awarded a prize at the College’s annual student awards 2012.
As he ran past HCC staff came out in force to support him, including Principal Ian Ashman, who commented: “It was a great day for Alpha and for the borough. It was very moving. We are all immensely proud of Alpha.”
Alpha’s tutor Gillian Adamson, who nominated Alpha, commented: “Alpha has shown me that despite adversity you can still be enthusiastic, positive and happy. That’s why he deserves this recognition and the honour of carrying the Olympic torch through Hackney”.
After Alpha carried the Torch, Hackney locals also saw a Carnival and Torch Relay celebration featuring the London School of Samba, giving a Rio carnival setting with the theme “Passando a Chama – Passing the flame” to the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.
You can see Alpha carry the torch through Hackney, and Gillian Adamson’s and Principal Ian Ashman’s reaction here:
By Ruth Faulkner
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Comments
that is so good seeing alpha on you-tube.
Posted by mariah on 29th September 2012
Well done Alpha. The race for life is essential but more so is being a torchbearer.
Continue to be a light that guide others to determination and willingness to overcome obstacles and hurdles in life. The significance of bearing a torch is a great achievement.
Posted by Althea Delores Farrell on 25th July 2012