Otto (mascot)
Otto , also often referred to as Otto the Otter , was the official mascot of the 2002 Winter Paralympics in Salt Lake City, USA .
description
Otto is an American otter . He is dressed in a red scarf with the logo of the Winter Games on it. In addition, he usually wears yellow ski goggles and gloves. On various merchandising articles Otto is also depicted in other sportswear, for example as an ice hockey player.
meaning
The motif of the otter was chosen because this animal was already considered powerful by the Native Americans in the area of the later state of Utah and had a high symbolic value. In addition, it should embody agility, vitality, tenacity and strength, which are decisive characteristics for both the animals and the Paralympics participants. The name of the mascot comes from the Italian word otto for the number eight and refers to the fact that the Games in Salt Lake City were the eighth Winter Paralympic Games.
presentation
The organizing committee of the Paralympic Winter Games, chaired by politician Mitt Romney , presented Otto to the public in March 2000. Before the games, Otto appeared at various sporting events, he also attended schools, children's hospitals and youth events.
Web links
- Salt Lake City 2002 Paralympic Winter Games - Otto on the official website of the International Paralympic Committee (English)
Individual evidence
- ^ Winter Paralympic Games Mascots (1976-2010). paralympicanorak, January 20, 2014, accessed February 22, 2018 .
- ↑ Meet Otto the otter. Deseret News, March 23, 2000, accessed February 22, 2018 .
- ↑ Dennis Romboy: Otto 'otter' be Paralympics hit. Deseret News, March 20, 2000, accessed February 22, 2018 .