The Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games was topped off with a spectacular closing ceremony at Whistler that was designed to not only thank the volunteers, known as Smurfs but also the true meaning of “sport” that was displayed by the Paralympians in Alpine Skiing, Biathlon, Ice Sledge Hockey and Wheelchair Curling events.
Most Canadians held there breath when the great upset was that Canada did not win in the Bronze Metal game in Ice Sledge Hockey but later was elated that we won the Wheelchair Curling.
Canada did “own the podium”. Here are some numbers: We were tied with the Ukraine in total metals of 19 but Canada got a total of 10 GOLDS compared to Ukraine’s 6. The number ranked country is the Russian Federation with a total of 38 metals. Interestingly, Germany pulled in the most GOLDS of 13 compared to Russia’s 12. The total possible metals are 192 divided between 21 metal winning countries.
Colette Bourgonje – Cross Country Skiing of Canada and Takayuki Endo – Captain of the Ice Sledge Hockey of Japan were awarded with the prestigious Whang Yiun Dai Achievement Award as they exemplified the spirit of the Paralympics. Both of these athletes will continue to be leaders for the disabled people.
For Colette the Paralympic Movement is about accepting the differences in others; it’s about pure sport; and it’s about accepting everyone and that everyone is given the opportunity that they can be the best at their sport if they desire. Mr. Endo’s motto: Experience can create the self confidence and the self confidence can create the power of life.
Beyond 2010 Winter Games the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program http://www.whistleradaptive.com will receive a substantial amount of funding to expand the program to provide year-around Alpine recreational programs for people of all ages with disabilities.
To relive the Opening and Closing Ceremony, as well as the competitions of the Vancouver Games, go to www.ParalympicSport.TV.
