The Olympic Torch arrived in Thompson and Churchill, launching the first of many celebrations as it is carried through 33 Manitoba communities and lighting the way for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.
“This is a proud and exciting time for all Manitobans as we welcome and witness firsthand the flame that symbolizes the world’s most famous international sports competition,” said Premier Greg Selinger. “Our province is known for its friendly hospitality and our own excellence as we have hosted national and international sporting events. We have a deep appreciation for what this means to Manitobans and all Canadians and we look forward to the opportunity to celebrate as the glow from the Olympic torch shines on us all.”
In Thompson, the community had family events and a late afternoon relay with a celebration at the Thompson Regional Community Centre. Churchill had a morning relay through town followed by a celebration at the Town Centre.
“I look forward to joining our new premier and the people of Thompson and Churchill this weekend as they welcome the flame and celebrate this historic event,” said Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Eric Robinson, minister responsible for sport.
After it visits Thompson and Churchill, the flame will leave Manitoba and re-enter the province again on Jan. 5. Approximately 400 torchbearers will carry the flame through 33 Manitoba communities including five Aboriginal communities. There will be eight official celebration stops including Thompson, Churchill, Steinbach, Winnipeg, Winkler, Portage la Prairie, Neepawa and Brandon.
The complete Olympic torch relay route in Manitoba will include the following communities:
• November: Thompson and Churchill;
• January: Falcon Lake, Richer, Ste. Anne, Steinbach, Dugald, Oakbank, Selkirk, Winnipeg, Peguis First Nation, Gimli, St. Laurent, Oak Bluff, Sanford, Brunkild, Carman, Roland, Winkler, Morden, Elm Creek, Oakville, Portage la Prairie, Dakota Tipi First Nation, Long Plain First Nation, Gladstone, Neepawa, Minnedosa, Forrest Station, CFB Shilo, Brandon, Sioux Valley Dakota First Nation and Virden.
The arrival of the Olympic torch in Manitoba marks the 16th day of the 106-day journey across Canada, visiting over 1,000 communities, involving 12,000 torchbearers and covering over 43,000 kilometres. The Olympic cauldron will be lit at the opening ceremonies in Vancouver on Feb. 12.
