KARA GRANT
The Guardian, February 17, 2010
The Canadian medal count continues to rise in this, our first Spring Olympics here in Vancouver as the cherry trees bloom, the sun shines and the outdoor cafés overflow. Thankfully there are some large sections set aside for pedestrians only during the Olympics and there’s a real carnival atmosphere. Robson Square has a skating rink complete with stage at one end and regular performances, as well as a zip line running diagonally above the square. I’ve heard some fantastic up and coming bands, and the zip line is calling to me a little more loudly each day. Yesterday I took the watertaxi to Granville Island where I slurped back a Malpeque Bay Oyster at Atlantic Canada House, wandered the wonderful Market and checked out Place de la Francophonie. This well laid out destination has, in addition to the indoor lounge and expo area, a very large outdoor stage and heated, covered observation and appreciation zone with a fantastic line up of artists including PEI’s own Lennie Gallant and Vishten. I caught the first set of Grand Dérangement and I look forward to a return visit to this promising venue. I also make regular visits to Canada Olympic House each day to watch Canada athletes compete, meet up with friends, and of course check the ticket board to see if anyone has any tickets for sale. Although not traditionally a follower of hockey, I’ve found myself at the rink two days in a row as the opportunities presented themselves. My introduction to Olympic Hockey took place at UBC Thunderbird arena, which is just as cool as it sounds. The venue was packed to the rafters with enthusiastic hockey fans and the Canadian Women’s Hockey team did not dissapoint. Those women are fast, precise, and talented athletes who seem able to anticipate the actions of their teammates more frequently than not. To be honest, I felt bad for the Swiss team who were just plain overmatched. Team Canada dominated from the beginning and although the Swiss goalie put in some incredible saves, when you have 65 shots on goal, eventually a few are bound to get by. Although not the slaughter fest of their first game against Slovakia, at 10-1 it was not close. Things are looking good for our Women’s hockey team, but it would be great to see them play a team of equal caliber and come on top as this would surely mean more, and be a better show! In men’s hockey, I took in the contest between Russia and Latvia. The lack of a Canadian team did not deter hockey fans and the arena at Canada Hockey Place was overflowing with Canada Hockey Jerseys, which must be one of the top selling clothing items of the Games. Russia won easily as expected, but we were all there for the Olympic Hockey experience, happy to get any ticket at all, and thankful to have seen Alexander Ovechkin showing his prowess. I, for one, will definitely be watching if and when, Canada and Russia meet in men’s hockey. Atlantic Canada House will be the central focus of the day, so fasten your seat belts and get ready for an Atlantic Canada Kitchen Party!
An unplanned treat presented itself while taking in the Savour Canada International Breakfast. I received an invitation to attend a reception that evening put on by the BC Aboriginal Tourism Association. The scene was set beautifully with a 40 foot, 800lb canoe carved from a single Red Cedar tree being only one of many beautiful artifacts on display. Traditional Aboriginal foods from across the land were specially prepared and I tried nearly everything, including goose neck barnacles, which I hadn’t even know you could eat! Although I’ve had smoked salmon before, cooked in the traditional way, it is an experience all its own and not to be missed. I did draw the line at rattlesnake. 
The performers were incredible and my favorite by far was the three-time World Champion Hoop Dancer who entertained the crowd. I was fascinated by the whole event and I look forward to visiting the Aboriginal pavilion and the many displays of art and entertainment around the city. 
