After my sumptuous breakfast courtesy of some Canada’s top Chefs, I headed for Burnaby and the Olympic Torch Relay. As an RBC Olympian, I was on hand to visit with people, give autographs and share my story. While this was my 11^th Torch Relay celebration, the magic was still very much alive. I felt a chill go up my spine as Josh Dueck, one of Canada’s top Paralympic alpine skiers and a BC native, wheeled the Torch into the celebration site. The look in people’s eyes as they watched the flame approach, is beyond compare.

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. 

The next morning I hit the streets once again to see the Olympic Flame in English Bay where it stopped briefly at the Inukshuk at the waters edge. I was now ready for the opening ceremonies.

 I prepared to set out for Stanley Park for the rest of my run, but decided to confirm it’s location before setting off. I stopped another spectator, Bryan Graham, originally of Halifax, NS, who pointed me in the right direction. This is not the first time I’ve run into other Maritimers in Vancouver, and it will be no surprise when we all turn out in mass for the entertainment, food and of course the Kitchen Party, at Atlantic Canada House, one of the top 3 must-see Pavilions in Vancouver.

 By now you’ve all likely put two and two together and realized that my pre-Olympic event was the Opening Ceremony dress rehearsal. They kept out certain elements to ensure surprise, so of course it was no hardship to watch it live at Canada Olympic House last night, surrounded by other Canadian Olympians, all so proud of having represented our country at the Games and now feeling incredible pride that our country is hosting the Olympic Games. As the Sporting events will soon take center stage, it needs to be said that these Olympic Games stand to be a history making event. Sometime, over the next two weeks, possibly as soon as Sunday in the Women’s Moguls or one of many other events, Canada will win its first ever gold medal on home soil. This epic moment will be part of an even greater event. Canada has been a force to be reckoned with in Winter Sports for decades, but for the first time in recent history, experts predict Canada will come out on top in the medal standings. Go Canada!

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.

The city is alive with preparations with the Official Opening Ceremony tomorrow and many of the amazing pavillions kicking off in the next two days as well. Make no mistake about it, Canada is showing the world what we are all about, not just athletically, but our land, our products, our talents, our diverse history and cultures, the ever changing and evolving wonder that is Canada. There are literally dozens of pavillions showcasing the provinces, territories, aborginal and french canadina culture, various art forms, and the list goes on. The real story will be how Canadians and the world react once they get a chance to see our many wonders. I, for one, am really looking forward to exploring the city and all it has to offer. There are many places in Canada I have yet to visit and this is going to be a great opportunity to get the inside scoop. Don’t worry, I’ll be sharing my perspective the first chance I get!