Local Olympic athlete honored at Cambria County Courthouse

EBENSBURG, Pa. – A special ceremony was held Wednesday at the Cambria County Courthouse to honor local U.S. Olympic athlete Daniel Barefoot.

"I can't even describe what this feels like," Barefoot said. "There's a lot of confusion, mixed with pride and honor."

The 2008 Richland High School graduate was one of two competitors for the United States men's skeleton team this year at the Milan Cortina Olympic Winter Games in Italy. Overall, the 35-year-old placed 20th out of 24 with a total time of 3:49.86 throughout his four runs.

Being honored at the courthouse was humbling, Barefoot said, and he was thankful for all the support he's received throughout his journey.

"It's really 25% me and 75% support," Barefoot said.

Being at the courthouse reminded him how many people have backed him, he added.

The commissioners presented Barefoot with a certificate of commendation and let him know that at the next meeting they are going to proclaim March 4 as Daniel Barefoot Day in Cambria County.

In addition to comments from the county leaders, the Olympic athlete also spoke and spent time fielding questions from the crowd. Hearing those questions made him understand that more people than he thought understood what he went through, he said.

"That was exciting for me," Barefoot said.

Commissioner Keith Rager helped organize the event in order to recognize Barefoot's accomplishments, and noted the importance of celebrating local success stories.

"I thought to myself, 'We need to honor this young man,'" Rager said.

It was a pleasure to hear about Barefoot's experiences in competing in the Olympics and getting to represent his country on the world stage, Rager said.

In addition to Wednesday's honor, Barefoot will return to his alma mater Thursday to visit with Richland students. He will speak at the Cambria Regional Chamber of Commerce's annual dinner Thursday evening.