As the first day unfolded, the athletes, coaches, and volunteers were eager to get the day started. Excitement was present at each of the venues as volunteers enthusiastically welcomed the guests they have been busy preparing for.
Team Nova Scotia members got their first view of the venues that will host their competition for the next four days. The place where all the practice will be put to the test and they will meet the other athletes from across the country.
Today ended with the Opening Ceremonies – After supper athletes headed over to the Civic Centre to officially kick off the 2016 Winter Games. Prior to heading into the ceremonies athletes had the opportunity to take team pictures, trade pins and meet new friends. As the athletes were escorted underneath the grandstands, there were boisterous chants of NOVA SCOTIA. It was now Nova Scotia’s turn to walk into a capacity crowd at the Civic Centre led by flag bearer Robert Burchell a speed skater from Cape Breton who is also the longest standing athlete on Team Nova Scotia. The Nova Scotia athletes loved the environment; they were able to feed of off the energy of the crowd. The ceremony was awesome which included dancers, speakers and Newfoundland’s own The Navigators to entertain the teams. The Highlight of the event was when the Law Enforcement Torch Run team members ran the Special Olympic torch into the arena. The torch was paraded to centre stage where the cauldron was lit and the games officially began.
Looking ahead to tomorrow…..
The floor hockey team was excited when they walked into the gym this morning and saw the playing surface where their divisioning games will be. The team took to the floor shortly after lunch for one last practice before the competition starts tomorrow. Cody, Amanda, and Krista have their team well prepared for competition and the athletes have already been focusing on being #uNStoppable. Tomorrow they will compete at 9:15 am against Team Manitoba and 1:00 pm against Team Ontario.
Speed Skating – Speed Skaters took to the ice late in the afternoon, to loosen up and get used to the new ice. The rink looked great and was packed with support for our skaters. The athletes enjoyed the practice that was set up by coaches from Ontario, Alberta, and BC. They will have the opportunities to skate for their first medals tomorrow. Robert, Abby, and Aimee will skate their finals in the 500M, 333M, and Abby in the 111M. Phillip will compete in his finals in the 1500M.
Curling – They had a great practice which was led by Bob and Kathy Munro. It was an opportunity for them to get a feel for the new ice. After speaking with Conar Clory he was very satisfied with their practice but noted that the ice is very fast here in Newfoundland. Tomorrow they will take to the ice in four games competing against Team Ontario (2), Team Manitoba, (2).
Cross Country – The course was closed most of the day today. The athlete’s spirits remained high throughout the day. The weather forecast is looking great for Wednesday’s divisioning races in the 100 M with the finals happening in the 500M and closing with the medal ceremony at 4:00 pm.
Snowshoe – After heavy rain this morning, the snowshoe track was shut down for the day but the snowshoers spirits remained high. Tomorrow the athletes will division in the 100 M and 400 M events.
Figure Skating – Kaylie and Robert took to the ice today to practice their singles routines. They both had great practice sessions. Tomorrow they will each practice their singles and end the day competing in the Level 2 Pairs competition.
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