Canada Games torch blazes through Kamloops

Dec 5, 2018 | 4:02 PM

KAMLOOPS — Kamloops is the latest stop for the Canada Games torch, as it makes its way to Red Deer for the 2019 Winter Games.

Two months ahead of the Canada Winter Games in Red Deer in February — Kamloops helped the organizing committee promote the upcoming games with a celebration at the Tournament Capital Centre.

The Canada Games Torch made an appearance with 2011 Canada Winter Games gold medallist Corryn Brown carrying the flame at the TCC. The torch relay has been making its way across Canada since October before its final stop in Red Deer on Feb. 15. By then, the torch will have passed through 48 communities.

Mayor Ken Christian says the city made the list of celebration stops for the torch, after hosting the Canada Games 25 years ago. 

“The 1993 Canada Games in Kamloops really started us, and launched the Tournament Capital moniker, and our whole approach to sport, and the important legacy that leaves in a community.”

The 2019 Games will feature 19 different sports, bringing 3,600 competitors, and more than 100,000 spectators to Red Deer in February.

“Tonight we get to recieve the torch on its way across Canada, so it’s an exciting night”

Tonight’s event had local Olympians and amateur athletes in attendance at the Tournament Capital Centre.