As the 2010 Winter Games came to a close yesterday, Mayor Gregor Robertson thanked the people of Vancouver for all of their work in hosting an incredible Olympics and Paralympics.

“The people of Vancouver deserve enormous thanks and recognition for all of their work in hosting the world for the Winter Games,” said Mayor Robertson. “This was the biggest event in our country’s history, and it was a massive success.

“Thank you Vancouver for your dedication, your patience, your graciousness, and most of all your enthusiasm for hosting the 2010 Winter Games.”

READ MORE

The City of Vancouver is working with the Canadian Olympic Committee, the Province, Whistler, the Federal Government, the Four Host First Nations, and VANOC to assemble a legacy collection from the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“As the Games come to a successful close, we want to provide people with the opportunity to share and relive their Olympic and Paralympic experiences,” said Mayor Gregor Robertson. “By collecting these important memories, we will build a legacy collection that will tell Vancouver’s stories for generations. I am proud that the City, the Canadian Olympic Committee and VANOC are taking the lead to assemble and preserve this important legacy for Vancouver and Whistler.”

READ MORE

At the first council meeting following the completion of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Mayor Robertson will be introducing a motion for the City to explore all possible legacy opportunities from the Games, including the creation of a Volunteer Team for the City of Vancouver based on the thousands of Olympic and Paralympic volunteers.

“The Games were a phenomenal success, and we need to capitalize on the momentum,” said Mayor Robertson. “Work is already underway for transportation and arts legacies, but there is so much more we could be expanding on: public safety, accessibility, job creation, and of course volunteerism.”

READ MORE

 Mayor Robertson, along with Whistler Mayor Ken Melamed and Squamish Nation Chief Gibby Jacob lit the Paralympic Cauldron in Ottawa on Wednesday, signalling the start of the Paralympic Torch Relay.

“The world’s best winter Paralympians are powerful reminders that if you keep pursuing your dreams, no matter the obstacles, you can achieve great things,” said Mayor Robertson.

READ MORE