Delta is the only Municipality (that I know of) that recognizes its athletes regarding a send-off for the Summer and Winter Games that are attending any event; near or far, for which they should be commended.
One such event was the recent send-off for those attending the 2012 BC Winter Games in Vernon held from February 23-26.
The games it self are something that these individuals will never forget and if they focus on being competitive, playing within the rules set out and respecting the fellow athlete they will have a great time.
The Corporation of Delta works with the Delta Sport Council to make this event or send-off special for everyone attending.
The event has several dignitaries on hand who make presentations and offer words of encouragement to Athletes, Coaches and Officials.
Those included Mayor Lois Jackson, MLA (North Delta) Guy Gentner, Delta Councillors and special guest speakers such as past Olympian Joy Fera.
The event was covered on Delta TV – Live for the community and was hosted by Ingrid Abbot and myself.
The effect of a split-screen was used and from the calls or text messages I received were nothing but positive.
In conversation with Joy Fera, she stated “I am simply thrilled at the number of individuals here tonight and how she continues to see the young Athletes excel in a sport they love”.
She continued “this is the start of a journey they will never forget and regardless of where the travels take them, they will always remember Delta’s send-off”.
Joy is one athlete that has a passion for helping today’s youth to not only become better citizens; but excel at the sport they have chosen as a career for years to come.
Through my life I have met many individuals who want to help, but knowing Joy is not only a pleasure it’s continues to impress me how passionate she is at helping motivate our youth.
MC for the event was Barry Howard and along with Len Stroh the evening went off with out a “hitch” as Mom would say.
Funny how comments from Mom come to mind when things happen that reflect something positive!
The Games in Vernon will feature 15 sports over three full day’s. Thursday will be the opening of the games, and from there it’s ready, set, go!
The games originally started in 1978 with the first games held in Penticton and were officially opened by WA Bennett, the Premier of BC at that time.
The games have seen changes over the years, but given the fact that this is the largest multi-cultural sporting event in BC, it’s no wonder why it continues to grow.
While the event is hosted this year by the City of Vernon, we should not forget the individuals or volunteers who make this happen.
The selfish hours they spend in and around the community only show the pride they have in the communities in which they live.
The 2012 Summer Games are hosted by the City of Surrey and I am told that the BC Games Society is accepting applications for the 2016 and 2018 Summer Games.
I for one would be impressed if Delta would strike a committee to put together an application to host one of these events.
I have mentioned this to three (3) Councillors, Delta’s Mayor – Lois Jackson, Guy Gentner MLA for Delta North and the Chair of the Delta Sports Council, so let’s see where it goes from here?
Here’s hoping – Highly think it will happen tho. Council simply does not seem interested in promoting sport.
