She high-fived all of the athletes from the eight zones as they entered the Wesbild Centre in the official B.C. Winter Games opening ceremonies Thursday night.
She praised the support the athletes receive from their parents, coaches and sporting organizations and communities.
And, after receiving the flame from the final two torchbearers, decorated Vernon speed skater Connie Kapak and Special Olympic multi-medalist Steven Linemayr, B.C. Premier Christy Clark lit the official Greater Vernon B.C. Winter Games cauldron in the Wesbild Centre, and declared the 2012 Games officially open.
“Thanks to all of those who have participated in supporting these young people, many of whom will go on to great things, and are learning beyond the realm of sport, thanks to all of you who made it possible for their talent to shine as it will over the next few days,” said Clark to a thunderous ovation from the near-capacity crowd.
More than 1,100 athletes, 290 coaches and 170 officials from all over the province will take part in 15 different sports over the next three days. The Games wrap up Sunday afternoon.
See Sunday’s Morning Star, as well as www.VernonMorningStar.com, for more on the opening ceremonies…
