Games flag passed to Alberta 


The Special Olympics National Games banner has been passed to St. Albert.

Mayor Nolan Crouse and members of the organizing committee for the 2012 Special Olympics Canada Winter Games, were in London, Ontario, this past week to observe and learn best practices as London hosted the 2010 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games.

The Summer Games opened on July 13, and consisted of four days of competition in eight official sports including athletics, five- and 10-pin bowling, powerlifting, rhythmic gymnastics, soccer, softball, and swimming.

Closing ceremonies took place Saturday, July 17, at the Thompson Arena at The University of Western Ontario. The stadium was buzzing with energy as athletes, family members and supporters from across Canada, along with over 800 volunteers, gathered to celebrate the athletes’ accomplishments, the opportunity to reunite with old friends, and strengthen the many new friendships that were made.

St. Albert games chair Dan McLennan, Mayor Crouse, St. Albertan five-pin bowler Michelle Sprogis and athlete Evan James from the West Central district, were honoured guests at the closing ceremonies and were on hand to receive the official Special Olympics Games’ flag from the London Police Services Colour Guard. At the end of the closing ceremonies the Games’ torch was extinguished at 7:35 p.m.

“The City of St. Albert is pleased to have received the Special Olympics Games’ flag, as it means this exciting event is fast approaching,” said St. Albert Mayor Nolan Crouse. “Much like London, our community is ready to host an exciting, memorable games for participants and their families, as well as for coaches, volunteers, visitors and our residents.”

While the Winter Games are still two years away, planning has already started. Organizers say they are already looking for volunteers to help out on the organizing committee.

“We have big shoes to fill,” Special Olympics Alberta Vice President John Byrne said. “But we know we are more than up to the task

 

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