Anna Spence is already nervous about competing in the Penticton 2016 BC Winter Games.
Add being named as one of four torchbearers for the opening ceremony on Feb. 25 and it takes that feeling to another level.
“I hope I don’t trip and fall,” said Spence, who is competing in her third BC Games. “I was really excited when I got the call from Kristi Patton (director of promotions for the Games.)
“I’m honoured,” continued Spence (skiing, freestyle), following the press conference announcing her as a torchbearer as well as fellow Penticton athletes Peter de la Mothe (skiing, alpine) and Brayden Kuroda (skiing, freestyle) along with Summerland’s Caitlyn Riddle (karate). “I’m honoured that they chose me.”
Spence, who previously won a silver medal in moguls at the Mission 2014 BC Winter Games and a silver and bronze medal at the Nanaimo 2014 BC Summer Games in the 100 metre backstroke and the 4x50 medley relay, respectively, will have double duties as a torchbearer and stating the Athlete’s Oath at the opening ceremony.
de la Mothe said his passion and dedication for skiing started with he joined the Apex Ski Club when he was eight years old. Getting the chance compete at the Games in his hometown has been nothing short of exciting.
“It really feels like the beginning of something big for me. It has really shown me that when you have a positive output into something that there is a positive outcome,” said de la Mothe in a press release. “It is just super exciting. We have special jackets that we were given and it is a great feeling knowing that I am competing in my hometown in front of all these people that I know. Being named a torchbearer just adds to the whole experience.”
Riddle saw her older brother and Zone 2 assistant coach, Declan Riddle, win two bronze medals at the Mission 2014 BC Winter Games in karate. That inspired her to reach for the same goal.
“The Games are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I knew I had to work hard for it, I couldn’t just go for it without any effort,” said Caitlyn, who won two bronze medals at the Las Vegas Open and is heading to Japan to compete in an international tournament this summer. “It’s really exciting representing Penticton and Summerland. I found out it was a big deal and got really excited.”
Riddle said she will be nervous carrying the torch, but said it will be awesome at the same time.
“It makes it more memorable,” she said to have this opportunity while also competing.
The torchbearers have another BC Games alumni in Brayden Kuroda, with Penticton marking his second Games experience. His gold medal in moguls from the 2014 Games still hangs in his bedroom.
“Those Games were super fun and keeps me inspired to keep going,” said Kuroda.
“Sport can bring out the passion in anyone and these young athletes are testament to that,” said Kelly Mann, BC Games Society President and CEO. “Their dedication to their sport has started them on a pathway to excellence which will have implications on many facets of their lives.”
“We are so proud of our local athletes who inspire the community for not only their athletic accomplishments but their dedication to training for their sport and their achievements away from it,” said Penticton 2016 BC Winter Games president Bill Bidlake. “We hope everyone will give them a loud and warm welcome as they help light the official cauldron at the opening ceremony.”
A proclamation signed by the Attorney General and Lt. Governor was presented to City of Penticton Mayor Andrew Jakubeit from Mann declaring it BC Games Week.
“The BC Winter Games is a great way to showcase Penticton’s amenities, beauty and friendly hospitality,” said Jakubeit. “We are so excited to welcome the 1,735 athletes, coaches and officials along with their friends and family to Penticton.”
The BC Winter Games showcase B.C.’s best young developing athletes. The BC Winter Games provide a unique opportunity for athletes to experience provincial competition in a multi-sport Games setting, taking the first step towards the national and international stage.
Competition will take place over four days in 17 sports such as badminton, biathlon, basketball, curling, diving, figure skating, gymnastics, judo, karate, skiing and speed skating, plus more. There is no charge for spectators.