Silver medallist Keith Musto carries the flame

Keith Musto, Olympic Silver medal winner joined in the Olympic Torch Countdown today, carrying the flame as part of its journey across the country. As excitement for the games continues, Keith carried the Torch between St. Johns Road and Myland Halls Chase, North of Colchester Town Centre in front of hundreds of well-wishers.

It was a fitting occasion for Keith, with the Olympics so close to his heart having won silver in sailing in the Flying Dutchman class at the Tokyo summer games in 1964. Following his participation in the event, Keith said, “To be asked to carry the Olympic Torch is an incredible honour and one which I will cherish forever. Having competed at the Olympic Games in 1964 I know the excitement the athletes will be feeling. To have everyone cheering me on this morning just goes to show what a fantastic opportunity the Olympics will be to showcase our country. To be hosting the games is just fantastic and I wish everyone involved the very best of luck”.

Keith’s own incredible journey has always involved sailing, taking to the water at the age of 15 and spending little time off it since. Following national service, Keith began working on sailing masts and sails and between 1955 and 1963 Keith became a leading dinghy sailor, winning national championships in 5 different classes.

Following his Olympic success, Keith’s entrepreneurial spirit and sailing enthusiasm led him to focus on sailing and outdoor clothing and in 1965 he set up Musto clothing.