Hi Everyone, the blog had to wait for the end of the Olympics due to some conflicts with other projects I’m involved in, but I’ll post The Guardian column (PEI newspaper) that I wrote during the Olympics, as well as some additional insights and photos specific to those days.
World is in for a treat at Canada’s Olympics
KARA GRANT
The Guardian, February 10, 2010
The Olympic Games have always held a special place in my heart, not only as a result of my two trips to the big show as an athlete, and the Olympic ring I wear as a daily reminder of a decade of hard work and dedication, but for the inspiration that Olympians provide to the world.
This month, Canada is playing host to the greatest sporting event in the world. While Vancouver will be the site of the event, it is Canada’s Olympics.
Having retired from competitive pentathlon in August 2009, I had convinced myself that Vancouver was too far away, there were no tickets available, and that I had had my Olympic fun. Also, as an RBC Olympian, I had the opportunity to take part in Olympic Torch Celebration events as the Olympic flame passed through Prince Edward Island and continued its journey through several New Brunswick communities in November.
Initially, I thought this would suffice as my 2010 Olympic experience, but as time went on and excitement continued to build across the nation, I found myself questioning my decision to watch from home.
Two weeks ago it all changed. I received an email inviting me, as a Canadian Olympian, to take part in a special pre-Olympic event Feb. 10. Over the course of my pentathlon career I’ve attended five closing ceremonies, but as a result of the pentathlon being scheduled near the end of the Games, I was never on hand for an opening ceremony.
This opportunity was just the incentive I needed to topple my increasingly suspect decision to stay home. Although my athletic retirement didn’t leave me with a monetary pension, I had a few air miles put aside for just such an occasion. A decade of high-performance sport also left me with a wonderful network of friends around the world, and my couch is reserved.
The Olympic experiences of an athlete and a spectator, Olympian or not, are far different and I can hardly contain my enthusiasm. Not only will this be my first Games as a spectator, but my first Winter Olympic Games.
I wasted no time in diving into my research so as to make the most of this Olympic Games experience. Imagine my elation upon learning that there are hundreds of great free events! Make no mistake, Olympic tickets or not, the world is in for a treat in Vancouver.
Since many Islanders are not able to attend the Olympics in person I’m eager to share my experiences and perspectives as an Olympian with everyone back home. I’ve also started a Facebook fan page called “Islanders at the Olympics” where Islanders at the Games (volunteers or spectators, native Islanders or ex-pats living in Vancouver) can share information on events, and post notes and photos about some of their experiences along the way, and of course those back home can follow the fun.
Needless to say, I will also be sharing personal insight in this very column throughout the Games.
Although I’m optimistically hoping to come upon Olympic tickets in Vancouver through various networks, I did shell out the inflated “fan to fan” fee for one event. Upon learning that Heather Moyse of Summerside would indeed be competing in the Vancouver Olympics, I extended my stay to Feb. 25 and secured women’s bobsleigh tickets. P.E.I. is rooting for you Heather!
Other events I plan to take in include a World Olympians Gala Feb. 10, Olympic Torch Relay celebrations in Burnaby, B.C., Feb. 11, an opening ceremony party at Canada Olympic House Feb. 12, and P.E.I. day at Atlantic Canada House Feb. 17.
And let’s not forget the dozens of concerts and many “Houses” on display by different provinces and countries. Having spent so much time with my Swiss pentathlon coach, a visit to Switzerland House is a must. One major difference in my status as a non-competing Olympian is that I can take in as many activities as I can possibly fit into the 24 hours in each day. I’ve left time for surprises and each day will be an adventure.
Tags: 2010 Olympics, 2010 Winter Olympics, The Guardian, Vancouver
