The nominations are now open for Saskatchewan Summer Games torch bearing relay presented by SaskEnergy on July 24.
The torch relay is the ceremonial event where the Games’ flame, which will burn in the official cauldron throughout the 2016 Saskatchewan Summer Games, is carried through Estevan by various torch bearers. The torch relay will follow a route through the city that will give spectators a view of the flame and the carrier. The relay will end with the Games cauldron being lit at the opening ceremonies.
“The torch relay is a way for the host community to get involved. The goal is to increase public awareness and participation in the Games. The lighting of the torch is very symbolic in that it officially signifies the opening of the multi-sport Games, uniting all districts in the province,” said Terina Shaw, committee chairwoman of the Estevan Torch Relay.
The relay is presented by SaskEnergy as part of their commitment to the Games since 1998. Not only has SaskEnergy been official sponsor of the relay, they have been the Champion of Volunteers for 10 years and play a key role in the execution of the relay process. How a host community selects their torch bearers is up to them as part of their planning process.
“We would like the residents of Estevan and surrounding communities to tell us who should be a torch bearer and are inviting the public to nominate deserving youth between the ages of six and 18 years, from our area. Selected torch bearers will be expected to carry the torch approximately 400 to 500 metres at their own pace. You can nominate a young person for a variety of reasons, not just for athletic accomplishments, but for contributions to our community as well,” said Shaw.
“The torch and flame are not just symbols of the Summer Games themselves, but symbols of the enduring qualities of the people of Saskatchewan. SaskEnergy is proud to be the presenting sponsor of this exciting part of the Games,” said Shannon Doka, SaskEnergy’s community involvement leader.
Those wanting to nominate a young torch bearer, or learn more about the relay can visit www.saskgames.ca/summer and follow the links to the Torch Relay.
The deadline for nominations is 5 p.m. on May 16.
