Union Pacific 2001 & 2002: Olympic Torch Relay SD70Ms
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In 2001, the Union Pacific unveiled one of its most distinctive commemorative locomotive pairs: Nos. 2001 and 2002. Painted in vibrant colors promoting the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, these SD70Ms were not merely symbolic—they played a central operational role in one of the most unique rail movements in modern American history: the Olympic Torch Relay Train. From a technical perspective the diesels were part of huge fleet of SD70Ms the railroad rostered, originally totaling 1,452 examples.
While many have since been sold or retired a handful have been used as other commemorative/keynote units, such as 1616 ("Abraham Lincoln"), 1776 (celebrating America's 250th anniversary), and 1979 ("We Are One"). Interestingly, the locomotives retain their unique livery today, nearly 25 years after they were unveiled.
Union Pacific's Olympic Torch Relay Train, led by SD70Ms #2001-2002,. crosses the High Bridge twenty miles east of Tucson, Arizona on January 13, 2002Origins & Design
Built in August 2001 by Electro-Motive Diesel as part of the SD70M series, the two locomotives were delivered as standard freight units (UP 4690 and 4691) before being renumbered and repainted as 2001 and 2002.
Their striking livery featured:
- Official “Salt Lake 2002” Olympic branding
- The slogan “Light the Fire Within”
- Multicolored graphics reflecting the Olympic spirit and western landscapes
Unlike later Union Pacific commemorative units, which often honor individuals or institutions, these locomotives were designed specifically for a single major international event—making them unique within the railroad’s commemorative fleet.
The Olympic Torch Relay Train
The idea of transporting the Olympic flame by rail was both symbolic and practical. Union Pacific had previously participated in the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympics torch relay, but for the 2002 Winter Olympics, the railroad expanded the concept into a far more elaborate and mobile public exhibition.
Planning for the train began shortly after Salt Lake City was awarded the Games. Union Pacific worked in coordination with the Salt Lake Organizing Committee to design a moving centerpiece that would:
- Safely transport the Olympic flame
- Serve as a rolling celebration of the Games
- Engage communities across the western United States
The result was a one-of-a-kind train that blended ceremonial pageantry with real railroad operations.
Exhibit & Support Cars
The rest of the train functioned as a mobile exhibition:
- Exhibit cars showcasing Olympic history and Utah’s role as host
- Crew and support cars for logistics and personnel
- Power and utility cars to ensure uninterrupted operation
At select stops, portions of the train were opened to the public, allowing visitors to experience Olympic-themed displays firsthand.
Route & Operations
The Olympic Torch Relay Train covered thousands of miles across Union Pacific’s network in late 2001 and early 2002.
Geographic Scope
- Traversed large portions of the western and central United States
- Passed through major cities and small towns alike
- Ultimately converged on Salt Lake City, host of the Games
While the torch relay itself traveled nationwide by various means, the train handled a significant western segment, where rail access and visibility made it especially effective. The train ultimately traversed some 3,200 miles throughout the United States. For more reading about the train please click here to visit the UP Railroad Museum website.
Transition to Freight Service
Following the conclusion of the 2002 Winter Olympics, UP 2001 and 2002 were returned to general freight service.
Unlike some commemorative units that are preserved or restricted to special assignments, these locomotives:
- Entered regular system-wide freight service
- Could be seen hauling intermodal, manifest, and unit trains
- Retained their Olympic paint schemes for years afterward
Railfan sightings into the 2010s and early 2020s confirm both units continued operating in active service, sometimes far from their Olympic origins—appearing in places like Illinois and California on everyday assignments.
This dual role—first as ceremonial locomotives, then as standard road power—underscores Union Pacific’s practical approach to commemorative equipment.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Builder | Electro-Motive Diesel (EMD) |
| Model | SD70M |
| Build Date | August 2001 |
| Original Numbers | UP 4690 (2001), UP 4691 (2002) |
| Serial Numbers | 996168-155 (4960), 996168-156 (4691) |
| Wheel Arrangement | C-C |
| Prime Mover | EMD 16-710G3B |
| Horsepower | 4,000 hp |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Length | ~74 ft |
| Weight | ~400,000 lbs |
| Trucks | HTCR-II radial trucks |
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