Katherine Heigl Helps Bring The 2034 Winter Olympics To Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is gearing up for its second stint as host of the Winter Olympics after successfully winning the bid for the 2034 Winter Games. On July 24, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially awarded Utah the honor, thanks to a compelling presentation that included a heartfelt video narrated by Katherine Heigl. As a longtime Utah resident, Heigl’s participation in the bid was more than just a professional contribution — it was a reflection of her deep connection to the state she calls home.
Katherine Heigl’s Role In Salt Lake City’s Olympic Bid
In preparation for Salt Lake City’s bid for the 2034 Winter Olympics, two videos were presented to the IOC, both highlighting the state’s unique ability to uphold Olympic values while preparing for the future. Katherine lent her voice to one of these films, titled “Legacy”. The video showcased Utah’s rich history with the Winter Games, focusing on the cultural and sporting changes sparked by the 2002 Olympics. It depicted local kids participating in various winter sports, underscoring the lasting impact of the games on youth and the region’s sports programs.
Through her narration, Heigl emphasized how the 2002 Winter Olympics left Utah with more than just venues — it created a lasting legacy. As she says in the film, “The Olympic and Paralympic Games left us with more than just venues and memories. The games reshaped our culture, creating a proud tradition of hosting international competitions and sparking programs that teach the value of sport and teamwork to thousands of kids every year.” The video also spotlighted initiatives like the Youth Sports Alliance, which offers support and financial assistance to local children interested in winter sports.
The Importance Of Legacy & Utah’s Future Olympic Vision
Katherine Heigl’s involvement in the 2034 Winter Olympic bid presentation goes beyond celebrity endorsement. As a resident of Utah, living just 30 minutes from Park City, Heigl’s voice resonates with authenticity as she highlights the community’s Olympic spirit. Her narration in “Legacy” reflects how the 2002 Games laid the groundwork for long-term athletic success in Utah, with facilities like the Utah Olympic Park and Soldier Hollow continuing to serve as top-tier training venues for athletes from around the world.
Utah’s Olympic bid committee made it clear that their vision for 2034 isn’t just about recreating the success of 2002; it’s about pushing forward. The “Legacy” video underscores the state’s commitment to developing future Olympians, with programs dedicated to fostering young talent. Many organizations, like Park City Ski and Snowboard, are actively training the next generation of athletes, aiming to see local competitors on the podium in 2034.
Her narration in “Legacy” reflects how the 2002 Games laid the groundwork for long-term athletic success in Utah, with facilities like the Utah Olympic Park and Soldier Hollow continuing to serve as top-tier training venues for athletes from around the world.
Utah’s Olympic bid committee made it clear that their vision for 2034 isn’t just about recreating the success of 2002; it’s about pushing forward. The “Legacy” video underscores the state’s commitment to developing future Olympians, with programs dedicated to fostering young talent. Many organizations are actively training the next generation of athletes, aiming to see local competitors on the podium in 2034.
Another video, narrated by “Modern Family” actor Ty Burrell, titled “Give Back“, complements Heigl’s “Legacy” by showcasing Utah’s desire to share its world-class venues and welcoming spirit with the global Olympic community. It features scenes of young athletes from all over the world training and competing in Utah, emphasizing the state’s ability to support not only its own athletes but also those from countries with less established winter sports programs.
Katherine Heigl’s Personal Connection To Utah & The Olympics
For Katherine Heigl, her involvement in Salt Lake City’s bid for the 2034 Winter Olympics was personal. A proud resident of Utah, Heigl has immersed herself in the state’s vibrant winter sports culture. Living close to Park City, Heigl’s family is part of the community that benefits directly from the lasting legacy of the 2002 Winter Games. Her children are growing up surrounded by some of the best winter sports facilities in the world, and she is excited about the opportunities the 2034 Games will bring to her home state.