The Olympic Flame

Wow.  What an experience.  I have never felt so proud and filled with ecstacy as I ran with the torch at dawn in Osoyoos yesterday.  The feeling of being united as one nation and one world was what I felt as my torch was lit by the previous torchbearer on the desolate tarmac of Highway 97.  It amazes me that this flame came all the way from the original site in Greece, and travels without extinguishing all across our country.  I felt such a strong connection to the spirit of the Olympics.

As soon as my torch was lit, I just wanted to sprint.  I felt so light and full of life.  My mom, aunt and boyfriend were there to share the experience.  It was also an honour to be passed the flame from 4 other great Olympians: Chinese speedskater, Ye Quaio Bo, Ross Rebagliati and Andy van Ruyven.

After the run, I followed the torch to Summerland where I shared my experiences with the Summerland Middle School and community members.  They presented me with my official Canadian Olympic team jacket for being one of 3 women to be named to the mogul team. 

The procession took to the streets just minutes before the flame passed through.  I have never seen so many people lining the streets of Summerland.  People had to be cleared from the path of the flame just so it could pass.  I was being mobbed by kids and grinning from ear to ear.

The energy that the flame carries and ingites in the people is magical.  I consider this my Olympic Opening ceremonies.  I will carry these moments with me forever.

Running with the Olympic Torch from Kristi Richards on Vimeo.