- Gail Miller carried the Olympic torch through Milan's CityLife Shopping District on Thursday.
- She reflected on Salt Lake City's 2002 Games as Utah prepares for 2034.
- Miller emphasized the Olympics' unifying power and her support for Utah's future Games.
MILAN — Gail Miller carried the Olympic torch through a busy shopping center in Milan Thursday evening, drawing cheers from crowds and reflecting on the legacy of Salt Lake City's 2002 Games as Utah prepares to host again in 2034.
Miller, a businesswoman and philanthropist, walked her portion of the relay through the CityLife Shopping District, an open air shopping center in downtown Milan.
It marked her second time participating in a torch relay after previously carrying the flame during the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.
"It was so emotional to know all those people were here cheering on for the same thing and knowing that I get to be part of it, and they don't even know who I am," said Miller with a laugh.
While many in the crowd may not have recognized her, Miller is a key figure helping support Utah's preparations for the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
She and her family have been longtime advocates of community involvement, volunteerism and philanthropy.
"We're willing to put our time and our money assets together to make that happen," she said. "It's not a selfish thing. It's something that we do willingly, that we do for the benefit of others."
Miller said the relay reminded her of the lasting impact of the 2002 Games and what they brought to Utah.
"You look at what happened in 2002 with our venues that are still viable today, and all the people that been able to enjoy them because the Olympics were there," she said. "Without the Olympics, we wouldn't have had these venues for people to enjoy."
She believes the Olympic movement continues to unite people across cultures and generations.
"Isn't that the exciting thing about the Olympics? It brings people together," said Miller.
She also joked she wasn't expecting to carry the torch through a shopping center.
"It was exciting; it's a unique experience. I've never thought about going through a shopping mall, carrying the torch," Miller said. "I'll remember that forever."
Miller said she will be nearly 90 years old when Utah hosts the Games in 2034, but she would gladly participate again if given the chance.
She said the energy she felt in Milan is something she hopes to bring back to Utah.
"That's the idea of being here," she said. "We'll see what goes on here. We want to take it home with us, and we want to make it even better."
