Shania Twain Carries Olympic Torch Through Hometown

Thousands of fans turned out in frigid weather to see Shania Twain carry the Olympic torch into her hometown of Timmins, Ontario.

 

"I feel proud, very proud," the Canadian-born country star was quoted as saying by The Associated Press. "It's a highlight of my life to be able to carry the flame, to light the cauldron."

 

The 44-year-old Twain, who was thoroughly bundled up for the 16-below-zero conditions, noted that the weather is a given in her hometown. "I know that sounds crazy, but it wouldn't be Timmins if it wasn't 40 below with the wind chill factor!" she said.

 

The torch's trek began Oct. 30 and will continue until it reaches its final destination — Vancouver — on Feb. 12 for the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. Coverage of the event will air on NBC through Feb. 28.