Jacques Bernard

I wish to nominate University student, Jacques, aged 19 years as a torch bearer. Why? Just over 5yrs ago, Jacques tragically lost his guiding light, best friend and elder brother, Stevie, in a car accident. In his memory and driven by the whole family, the Steve Bernard Foundation was formed. The foundation aims to bring sporting happiness to others. Since its formation, it has supported more than 80 projects across 19 different sports and has raised well in excess of £100,000 for local sporting projects. Jacques has been heavily involved in promoting and fundraising the foundation and has shown incredible fortitude throughout. Indeed as I write, he has inspired nine others to raise further funds by cycling from Lands End to John o'Groates and then to immediately complete the Three Peaks Challenge - all in 11 days! I have also had the pleasure of coaching this young talent at football for several years. I hope that I have managed to teach him one or two things, but I am absolutely certain that he has taught me so much more. I didn't think it possible that one so young could be so competitive, inspirational and have such high regard for others, all whilst harbouring such person pain. This young man, I believe, epitomises the principles, values and beliefs of the Olympic movement.