2010 Olympic Torch Relay - Day 98

Torch Run Relay - Sechelt

The historical events in Sechelt surrounding the 2010 Olympic torch relay created much excitement in the community and brought out thousands of spectators to celebrate this occasion. Many local torch bearers ran along Sunshine Coast Highway 101 from Egmont to Langdale and two local events featured in the pictures were held in the heart of Sechelt: one beside the Village of Sechelt's Seaside Centre and the blessing of the torch at the Sechelt First Nation Government building. Many volunteers began the preparation at 3:00am ensuring everything was in place and ready on day 98 of the 106 day torch relay.

While anticipating the arrival of the Olympic torch the crowd enjoyed performances by various local groups and musicians at the Seaside Centre and the contributions of special guest CTV correspondent Bill Good. Encouraging words by Mayor Darren Inkster and local politicians thanked all  Olympic organizers, volunteers and supporters for making this a once in life time opportunity for many a huge success. The large stage and big screen monitor provided an outdoor concert atmosphere for the estimated crowd of 2,500 people.  There were many free Olympic souvenirs including flags, pins, and commemorative bottles of Coca Cola. Students in the Sechelt School District were given permission to miss morning classes and experience the event. On-lookers watched and cheered for one of our local heroes Sarah Doherty who has had to overcome many challenges since losing a leg in a car accident in 1973. Sarah proudly carried the torch on stage to light the Olympic cauldron and also presented a heartfelt and inspirational message to the crowd.

The Olympic torch relay continued its journey to a blessing ceremony hosted by the Sechelt First Nation.  In the spirit of the event, Master of ceremonies Sid Quinn got the crowd cheering “Go Canada” as the torch made its way along Hwy 101. Sid introduced the cultural group 'The xwamstut' who performed traditional songs and dances of the Sechelt people. The Band elders sang O' Canada in their language to honor and bless the Olympic torch as it passed through their territory. The blessing was done by Band elder Margaret Joe. Sechelt Band member Lakota Joe carried the torch to the ceremony, and Chief Garry Feschuk welcomed all of the guests and thanked the Olympic Organizers for including First Nations in this Canada wide Olympic event. The Chief spoke of how proud the community was of Lakota and what his participation meant to his family. Lakota wanted to carry the torch in memory of his uncle Mike Sutherland.  Mike was an exceptional athlete and a torch bearer in the 1976 Montreal Olympics; his sister Barb stood proudly with her brother's torch together with her son Lakota as the crowd cheered them on.  Other Sechelt Nation community members torch bearers included: Joyce Joe, Keith Julius, Trent Dixon and Dwayne Paul. Afterwards, the Band had a free luncheon for all to enjoy and the Chief wished everyone involved in the Olympic Torch Relay a safe journey as it continued towards Squamish.

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