I can’t believe it has been a week since my last Olympic update!
We’ve been working long crazy hours at the Whistler Sliding Centre for the tail end of Luge competition, Skeleton training and competition (in which our very own Canadian Jon Montgomery won gold) and preparing for 2 & 4 man Bobsleigh training and competition.
With the change in competitions we’ve had new challenges; bigger crowds, more media and a shift in the dynamics of the track. Crashes in bobsleigh are vastly different than those in Luge or Skeleton.
As of late, with the large increase in spectators I have been helping out with Spectator Medical Care and 1st Response side of things, in this role I have been extremely fortunate to meet people from all around the world and lend a helping hand to those in need. On occasion I have also been lucky to trade pins from almost all corners of the world and can’t wait to show off my new collection once I return home!
Whistler is an amazing place. During the day it a abuzz with activity; skiers heading to the slopes, people watching Olympic events on huge television screens set up at the Whistler Live Pavilion, and teams perusing and purchasing souvenirs from the multitude of shops and boutiques.
For those that have never been to Whistler, it is somewhat like The Village at Blue at Blue Mountain in Collingwood but it is considerably bigger and seems to have more of an international flair. In the evening, Whistler comes alive; every night there is the Fire & Ice Show – a spectacular performance where stunt snowboarders and skiers fly through the Olympic Rings that are ablaze with fire accompanied by the latest music of various local and international artists.
All the local pubs and restaurants have cheering fans watching all the latest Olympic action on large screen TV’s. Whistler seems to be an all encompassing place, there are activities for families, young people, older people, singles, groups, teams, athletes, spectators, workers and volunteers alike- we are all different but we have been brought together like family through the power of sport.
Canada has done it...again and again and again..for a total of 4 gold medals thus far. 'GO CANADA GO' can be seen and heard at all the events! Our patriotism has been in high gear since we’ve stepped onto the podium. Canadian flags can be seen draped over the shoulders of spectators, “Go Canada Go” banners are prevalent at events and most fans have the maple leaf tattoo prominently displayed on their cheeks!
It seems we’ve not only taken pride in being Canadian but in hosting the ultimate in international sporting events! With 4 gold, 4 silver and 1 bronze we have done exceptionally well and seeing that some of the best medal hopeful events are yet to come, I am sure that number will grow exponentially.
I can’t help but say it again GO CANADA GO!!!
That is all for now...I have more pins that need to be traded, pictures to take and places to explore. More updates to follow soon!
Tanya
PS Despite all the activity excitement, I do miss our little metropolis of Meaford, can’t wait to return home and share all my experiences in person with all of you!
Tanya Vesely was a Meaford Dragons' Den participant and is owner of The Travellin' Scrapper on Trowbridge St. in Meaford. You can find out more about her business by visiting her website: www.travellinscrapper.com
