SYCAMORE – Austin Culton has been named the Grand Marshal of the 2012 Pumpkin Festival parade. A senior at Sycamore High School, Austin earned the distinction of becoming the first Spartan to ever win an individual wrestling title last year. Compiling a record of 34-4, he won the Illinois High School Association's 152-pound 2A state championship in February.

In announcing his selection as grand marshal, a press release by the Pumpkin Festival Committee reported that "with the Olympics this summer highlighting the world's sports champions, it would be appropriate to recognize one of Sycamore's champions in our parade this year."

The lifelong Sycamore resident is the son of Randy and Dana Culton. Like his older brother Kyle, Austin has been involved in wrestling for as long as he can remember. He is also the starting running back for the Spartans football team.