The 2019 Canada Winter Games in Red Deer have finally arrived.
The nationwide event kicked off Feb. 15 with spectacular opening ceremonies that included special guests, Canadian history, culture, music, dance and the stars of the event, the athletes.
More than 3,000 athletes from across Canada gathered in Red Deer to compete in competitions, including hockey, speedskating, wheelchair basketball, figure skating, biathlon, table tennis, ringette, artistic swimming, archery and more.
It takes a lot of time, hard work and dedication to not only compete in a national event such as the Canada Games, but also to coordinate and orchestrate it.
One can only image the effort, planning and years of preparation that are required to present and make the 2019 Canada Winter Games a success. That includes the managers, performers for opening and closing ceremonies, front-line workers and of course, the volunteers.
Volunteers often play a pivotal role in events and large-scale productions like this.
Many of those volunteers are from Innisfail, Penhold and Bowden.
In covering the opening ceremonies and several sporting events over the past week, I’ve seen many familiar faces during the Canada Winter Games assisting in a variety of roles. I’ve also relied on the assistance of many other volunteers so I could fulfil my job while covering the Games.
Volunteers have helped spectators, athletes and media find a particular location or venue, helped with the coordination of sporting events and have worked behind the scenes in various capacities.
As a reporter, having the opportunity to cover a national event like the Canada Winter Games is an exciting one. It provides a unique perspective and experience in itself. I’ve enjoyed meeting the athletes, organizers and other people that have worked to bring every element of this memorable national event together.
I’ve also enjoyed sharing such an event with Innisfail’s volunteers.
They too have spent hours preparing, rehearsing and learning their roles in order to help make the 2019 Canada Winter Games a huge success and an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Hats off to the Canada Winter Games volunteers from Innisfail, Penhold, Bowden and Red Deer County, and the difference they are making.
