Community Gathers to Cheer on Athletes at Opening Ceremony
Author: BC Games Society/Friday, July 20, 2018/Categories: Front Page, 2018 News, 2018 BC Summer Games
Over 8,000 athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers and community members gathered at Laketown Ranch last night to celebrate the official opening of the Cowichan 2018 BC Summer Games.
Before the athletes entered, the crowd was entertained by a variety of local dance groups and singers. And then came the moment everyone was waiting for – the parade of the athletes, coaches and officials who have come from across the province.
Each zone entered wearing their zones’ colours, creating a rainbow effect, bringing the Games’ Show Your Colours theme to life.
Asani, an Aboriginal women’s trio from Edmonton, performed an inspiring O’ Canada. This was followed by formal speeches and a motivating performance by spoken word poet Shane Koyczan.
Then came the moment the athletes had been waiting for – the lighting of the torch. Brooklyn Stobe, Jenny Scholefield and Richard Peter had the honours of officially opening the Games.
Now comes the hard work. Three days of competitions for the athletes, while they are cheered on by friends, family and the community.
All sporting events are free to attend, and everyone is welcome. Come out and show your colours cheering on athletes as they strive for a personal best.