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Wow ...what an astounding, amazing and unbelievable day. Ernest Hemingway could not have written a better closing script than what we witnessed today. I still remember the '72 Soviet Series and how it gripped the country from sea to shining sea. These games were certainly comparable and I am certain that there were a record number of viewers this afternoon watching the hockey game.
I am so happy for John Furlong and the Vanoc 2010 team. They had several nearly insurmountable problems that tried to derail the games, but through the will, spirit and excitement of all of Canada we pulled it off and created one of the best games ever.
I decided yesterday that I would stay in Whistler to watch the hockey game and see the Closing Ceremonies on the big screen in the Village. Vancouver would have been exciting, but the logistics to get there and back were too complicated.
Today's hockey game was probably the most amazing I have ever witnessed. There was the US with a solid unyielding defense and the best goaltending in the world. Canada had a relentless forecheck, defense that moved the puck better than any and Luuuuu made the big saves when required. I need not describe what happened but I can tell you that the excitement was at a fever pitch in the bar where I watched the game. When the US tied the game with 24 seconds remaining we were all prepared for a Cdn loss.
I was happy for the win as it gave Canada their 14th Gold, to break the all time record for most Gold medals at a Winter Olympics. While we did not "Own" the Podium, I believe that we have a firm 4-year Lease on it.
As the game ended, the bars emptied and impromptu parties broke out everywhere. Even the skies cleared and the Sun came out to make it a perfect afternoon. People converged on the Central Square in Whistler and within minutes there were 20,000 people packed into the area. The post game medal ceremony was displayed on the big screen and hundreds of flags were waving as we all sang Oh Canada. Words cannot describe the pride and emotion that we all felt, but it is something that I wish everyone could experience at least once in their lifetime. (Attached picture)
Before the Closing Ceremonies there was a concert in the Village Square with the band Blue Rodeo. They played on the energy of the crowd and were awesome. Our international visitors were quite awe struck by the whole experience and weren't sure what had happened to all the polite Canadians. The band played for close to an hour and we then waited about 30 minutes for the Closing Ceremonies to begin.
I thought that Joannie Rochette was the perfect choice for our flag bearer. While she only won bronze, there was no other Athlete who faced circumstances as difficult as hers. She was the pen ultimate performer under pressure.
The Closing Ceremonies continued the positive vibe and energy that was created by the win in men's hockey. Fixing the torch was a great bit of humour and hopefully will silence the anal critics who have a need to destroy and expose at any cost.
John Furlong's speech was very good and I believe that he went out of his way to give the Smurf Team a very kind thank you. I believe that Van2010 had more Volunteers than any other Winter games. Furlong also did a nice job of honouring Nodar the deceased luge competitor and the ovation by the Athletes was very heartfelt.
The Dancing Mounties, flying beavers, Dancing Mooses and I am Canadian monologues were very cute. Finally, there was no better way to finish than with Neil Young ...who doesn't like him (besides you Brian!)
Tomorrow I will write a wrap-up with my top 10 highlights of the games. We have certainly set the bar high for Sochi 2014 and we wish them great success.
sent from my BlackBerry device
Best regards,
Greg
M 416-347-1545
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