2016 Abbotsford Summer Games

They did it again and in keeping with the times the Delta Sport Council hosted a send-off for the Delta Athlete’s attending the 2016 Abbotsford Summer Games later in the week.

The event was held at Delta’s 120 Public House located at 8037 120^th Street (Scott Road) and “kicked-off at 5:30 pm.

In total there were over 71 Athlete’s attending along with Coaches, Volunteers and numerous parents.

While it was initially set up for the one side of the Public House, it was quickly moved to the main seating area, which was far more comfortable for those attending.

Along with myself were Delta Sport Council members Carlene Lewall and Steve Krawchuk made presentations to various individuals, who were all taken-back by the generous nature of the Delta Sport Council.

Several dignitaries were on hand which included Provincial MLA Scott Hamilton, representing the Provincial Government, Delta Councillor Heather King, representing the Corporation of Delta and Delta School Board Chairperson Laura Dixon.

The event’s guest keynote speaker was Robert Esmie who was a Canadian sprinter and a member of the 1996 Summer Olympic Gold medal 4 x 100 men’s relay team.

In 2008 he was inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame as part of the 1996 Summer Olympics 4×100 relay team.

Robert and the Canadian team won Gold again at the 1997 6^th World Championships in Athens Greece under the auspices of the International Association of Athletics Federations.

Canada won Gold, Nigeria won Silver and Great Britain won Bronze medals in this 4 x 100 men’s relay event.

The team was comprised of Glenroy Gilbert, Bruny Surin, Donovan Bailey and Robert.

Robert spoke to the Athletes about what it takes to achieve success, what it takes to focus as well as having the motivation to win as an individual or a member of a team.

Following his presentation he proudly displayed his Olympic Medal to several athletes as well as some patrons visiting the establishment.

Robert is also a member and  was inducted into the Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame and to get to this level you have to achieve prominence.

On hand to take the exceptional photos was Sportswave Photographer Laird Allan along with Sportswave reporter Bruce Nolte.

Participants were given certificates which will and should last a life-time, but it’s the memories that will linger on and on.Athletes in Delta should be extremely proud they have an organization to recognize them in all their accomplishments to date and wish them all the best, regardless of where their travels take them.

Special “thanks” to the 120 Public House for hosting this event and especially the staff for all the support they have been over the past while.

We wish the Athletes, Coaches, Officials and Volunteers all the best and remember – it’s sport that keeps everyone on the straight and narrow.