Raitt cheers on local athletes

December 20, 2009

Celebrates Arrival of Olympic Flame in Halton
 
MILTON, ONTARIO. Yesterday, Lisa Raitt took part in ceremonies commemorating the lead up to what will surely be Canada’s most successful Winter Games in Vancouver 2010 by welcoming the Olympic Torch to Halton.

“The passing of the Olympic Torch through our community is a proud moment for all, giving us the opportunity to show support for our local athletes, and Halton did not disappoint,” exclaimed Lisa Raitt, Member of Parliament for Halton. “Standing there watching not only the flame, but our community coming together to support our athletes was nothing short of inspirational.”
 
The Olympic Torch Relay provides an opportunity to all Canadians from coast-to-coast-to-coast to experience the Games. The relay which is sponsored by the Government of Canada will be the longest domestic relay in Olympic history.
 
“Hosting the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games is a unique opportunity for Canada to showcase Canadian excellence and innovation to the world,” continued Raitt. “These are Canada’s Games, and as the torch passes through our communities the Olympic Spirit will touch each and every one of us.”
 
The Olympic Flame will be carried by 12,000 torchbearers through more than 1,000 communities across Canada bringing the country together and highlighting our cultural vitality.
 
Raitt acknowledged and thanked torchbearers Mark Dockeray, Tom Brown, Jesuchrista Chowdhury, Robin Pawlak, Ignatios Antoniadis, Andrew Markow, Joyce Scott and Kathy Kulina for their dedication to the games.
 
“We have the best athletes in Canada being cheered on by the greatest fans in the world, all of which bodes well for our chances in Vancouver,” concluded Raitt. “Go Canada Go!”