Lynn Petruskavich, a woman on a mission to inspire active living and bring healthy food options into Oakville’s schools and neighbourhoods, will be the town’s community torchbearer in the TORONTO 2015 Pan Am Games Torch Relay, presented by President’s Choice® and OLG.
“It’s such an honour to represent a town that I love so much,” said Petruskavich. “As a mom and enthusiastic volunteer, it’s incredibly validating to be recognized in a way that reinforces what I teach my kids – that some of the most rewarding and meaningful contributions you can make in the world don’t always come with a pay cheque.”
Tired of attending school events that didn’t offer healthy food options, Petruskavich persuaded her daughters’ school to let her start a Healthy Schools initiative to showcase vegetables and fruits at school events. She also organized several “Walk & Wheel Wednesday” campaigns to encourage students and families to get active together by walking or bicycling to school. In addition to her involvement with schools, Petruskavich is a fitness instructor at the Oakville YMCA where she is well known for her infectious enthusiasm and motivational classes.
“The Pan Am Games Torch Relay stops in Oakville on June 23 and we’re very proud to have Lynn Petruskavich carry the Pan Am flame and represent the town,” said Mayor Rob Burton. “Her volunteer work and passion for health and fitness is a great example of community spirit in Oakville.”
The torch relay starts May 30 and ends on July 10. Each of the 3,000 torchbearers will complete an approximately 200-metre long relay segment as the torch makes its way to Toronto for the dramatic lighting of the cauldron at the opening ceremony.
Plans are underway for an exciting community event to celebrate the torch’s arrival in Oakville at Centennial Square on Tuesday, June 23. Details including specific timing and special guests will be announced in May.
Visit oakville.ca to learn more about Lynn Petruskavich. For more information about the torch relay, visit TORONTO2015.org/torch-relay.