Today marked a day of celebration that brought our culture, our community, and our country together. Canadians can all say from this day forward that they have experienced a little part of history that can never be forgotten in their country. The Olympic Torch run is one of the main events that marks the start of the Olympics: A competition of tremendous athletes from around the globe competing for their own nation. The flame from the torch raised high above our heads is transferred from nation to nation, and now in Canada being transferred from province to province, city to city, as we wait in anticipation with pride for our nation.
The 2010 Winter Olympics are to commence on February 12, 2010 in Vancouver British Columbia, Canada. But today the torch passed through the small city of Penticton, British Columbia. Home to 30,000 people, this city has not seen as many glowing faces as it did today. As the torch passed down Main Street, city workers came out of their shops to cheer on the Canadian Torch runners. Upon arrival at the South Okanagan Events Centre, thousands of fans waved their flags as the torch was lit on stage.
Performances included local bands, choirs, dancers, and artists all in celebration of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games. All the performances reflected Canada as a warm welcoming nation; one that has evolved based on acceptance, equality, and community. Some of the highlights included local belly dancers, an African Drumming Band, and last but not least the singing of the Canadian National Anthem.
A teacher from Okanagan Mission Secondary, Michael Ross, and a group of fellow students graciously relit the torch from the stage and continued it on its journey. The flame will be transferred through dozens of hands until it reaches its final destination in Vancouver on February 12, 2010 to mark the start of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.
