Will Katene carries the Olympic flame

He now leads the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) Physical Education course at the University’s Graduate School of Education.

Will Katene says: “This is a wonderful opportunity to take part in the greatest sporting event on the planet. I have dedicated my life to encouraging young people to take part in sport, and inspiring future teachers to enthuse of the benefits of keeping active, and so the Olympic Games and the idea of the country coming together to prepare for them is something I wholeheartedly support. I am delighted to be running in Exeter so family, friends, students and colleagues can support me. “

Professor Ken Fox from the University of Bristol nominated Will as a torchbearer. He says: “It is imperative that we produce young teachers who are thoroughly educated and convinced about the importance of stimulating and fostering interest in all youngsters for activity and sport. I cannot think of many professionals I know who have done as much to promote quality and leadership in young physical educators as Will Katene. Will is a keen and fit sportsman himself and will embrace the opportunity to carry the torch in the spirit that is intended. I know he will want to use it to draw attention to the importance of quality physical education in the UK and in fact all over the world.”

An average of 115 Torchbearers a day will carry the Olympic Flame during its 8,000 mile journey around the UK before it arrives at the Olympic Stadium on July 27 for the lighting of the cauldron, signifying the official start of the London 2012 Olympic Games. People are encouraged to ‘line the streets’ to cheer torchbearers on, and celebration events are taking place. The University of Exeter is also involved in an exhibition in Falmouth on Sat 19 May to showcase research at the Cornwall Campus, and drama students are performing in Exeter to welcome the flame.