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2019 Canada Winter Games looking for torch bearers

Nomination deadline coming up quickly for historic national relay
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The Roly McLenahan Canada Games Torch design that will be used for the MNP Canada Winter Games torch relay route which is looking for torch bearer nominations. Image: Dave Brunner Photography

It’s an opportunity to be part of a historic first in this country.

Nominations are being accepted until 4 p.m. on June 30 for torch bearers for the first-ever national Canada Games torch relay.

“I encourage everyone across Canada and throughout Alberta to find the MNP Canada Games Torch Relay stop near them and nominate an outstanding individual in their community for the honour in being a torchbearer in this historic relay,” said 2019 Canada Winter Games board chair Lyn Radford in a release.

“What a fantastic opportunity to recognize the youth, sport and community builders across our nation who are making an impact in our communities.”

The MNP Canada Games Torch Relay will unite communities that have hosted this event over the last 51 years, starting by the lighting at the Centennial Flame on Parliament Hill on Oct. 4. The relay will then visit previous Games host sites over the next three months before hitting Alberta on Jan. 5. Ponoka will be the last stop Feb. 7 before it goes to Red Deer to kick off the event Feb. 15.

About 10 to 15 torch bearers will be needed in each of the relay communities as it passes through 48 different communities across the country.

“The MNP Canada Games Torch Relay is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate community spirit across Canada and we’re honoured to participate in the torchbearer nomination process!” said Jason Tuffs, MNP chairman and CEO.

“We’re excited to discover the unique stories behind the candidates chosen to carry the Roly McClenahan Canada Games Torch. For 60 years, MNP has developed strong ties in each of the locations along the relay, so we’re especially proud of the focus these vibrant, big-hearted communities will garner. Join us in shining a spotlight across Canada!”

There are some criteria that nominated torch bearers would have to meet.

To view that criteria and get a nomination form, head to www.canadagames.ca/2019/torchbearer-nomination.

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Torchbearer Mackenzie Van Damme, who also is the creator of Games mascot Waskasoo, carries the Roly McLenahan Canada Games Torch into the relay announcement last month. Image: Dave Brunner Photography