Anticipation was running high on Feb. 28 at the Clifford arena for a number of reasons. And yes, one of them was watching the Canadian men’s hockey team capture gold with the overtime goal against the U.S.A. in the final event of the 2010 Games. The big screen high atop the Coke machine was just what the crowd needed.
There was also a birthday celebration in full swing in the party room off the lobby. But for many, the main attraction was the chance to skate with speed skating champion, 13-year-old Paisley Perrie of Harriston. She cautioned people about touching her shaving-sharp blades, but was excited to demonstrate her speed skating style from starting pose to full-out competition mode. Paisley circled the rink with her friend Jodie Mazereeuw until the need for speed pushed her to accelerate. It was wonderful to witness her finesse in rounding those curves and manoeuvering through even the littlest toddler on bob skates. She has the grace and poise of a seasoned professional who has endured and triumphed in the Olympics. She hopes to be a contender one day when she is old enough and has reached an elite status in her training. Paisley’s parents Pam and Alex are proud of their little girl’s diligence and accomplishments and showcased a display of Paisley’s medals and honours.
Paul Wightman had his brush with the Olympics when he ran with the torch in Owen Sound. He brought along his jacket and torch to the event so people could capture their own Olympic moment on film. Paul instructed everyone on the proper way to hold the torch and made sure that no one smudged the powdered remains of the flame etched onto the torch.
Lorne Underwood, one of the organizers, stood with his mom Arthena Underwood and nephew Chad Weber to capture their own Olympic memory. He felt this event - enjoying fun at the Clifford arena - was a wonderful way to help Haiti.
Ellen Underwood and Cindy Reading met everyone at the front door and offered them a chance to donate and skate. Official tax receipts were provided through the Canadian Red Cross.
Randy Ruetz of the Clifford Recreation Association (CRA) assured people that their donated dollars would be matched by the committee to create even more of a positive impact for the Haiti relief efforts.
Belief in a community willing to encourage a young athlete and support all the people devastated by an earthquake while watching the hockey game goes a long way in helping the CRA create a better community!