The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay is coming to Nunavut
IQALUIT, Nunavut (November 4, 2009) - Louis Tapardjuk, Nunavut’s Minister of Culture, Language, Elders and Youth wishes to announce the arrival of the Olympic Torch Relay to our territory on Thursday, November 5th with celebrations getting underway in our most western community, Kugluktuk.
“This is a special occasion for Nunavummiut to inspire the rest of the country with our vast landscape, diverse culture and strong and joyful spirit. The Nunavut journey of the Olympic flame will generate pride for our nation, and allow us to celebrate our unique place within it,” said Minister Tapardjuk.
The flame will begin its way through Nunavut with celebrations in Kugluktuk on Thursday, November 5th followed by Grise Fiord, Resolute Bay and Iqaluit on Monday, November 9th. This is part of the 45,000 kilometres the Olympic Flame will travel, completing the longest domestic Olympic Torch Relay in history.
Community celebrations are intended to generate enthusiasm and a positive following for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games, building excitement and pride for Canada’s delivery of this event. Each celebration will showcase local talent, youth, culture and sport.
Peter Taptuna, Nunavut’s Minister of Economic Development & Transportation shared in the enthusiasm surrounding the relay. “I am very proud that so many Nunavummiut are taking part in this event,” said Minister Taptuna. “The Olympic Flame is a symbol of sportsmanship, camaraderie and hope. We will carry it with pride throughout Nunavut.”
The Government of Nunavut, as a Contributing Partner to the Games has been working with the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games to bring the torch relay celebrations to our territory. Over seventy-five Nunavummiut will have the honour of being official 2010 Olympic Torchbearers.
Everyone is encouraged to go out and participate in your community’s celebrations and support the torchbearers in your community. Help showcase our territory to the rest of Canada and the world.
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For media inquiries, contact:
Napatchie Kolola
Communications Manager
Department of Culture, Language, Elders and Youth
867-975-5526
@email