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Pedal to the medal

Orillia 2018 Ontario Winter Games just around the corner

Orillians have answered the call to volunteer for next month’s Ontario Winter Games, but help is still needed in surrounding communities.

“We’ve had outstanding uptake from the community. We’ve surpassed the 600-volunteer mark in Orillia,” said Michael Ladouceur, general manager of the Winter Games, which will take place March 1-4.

While he is confident there will be enough volunteers across the board, more helping hands are being sought for events in Blue Mountain, Bracebridge and Midland.

Organizers have been trying to hype up the event through social media, including a weekly video series called Guide to the Games and posts promoting “Orillia 2018” merchandise.

“Using the video, and also releasing information like the medal design, is really building the momentum needed,” Ladouceur said.

Oro-Medonte artist Tony Bianco designed the gold, silver and bronze medals that will be handed out to athletes.

“The medals were inspired by the spirit of sport and the spirit of Orillia. The athlete’s oath as a design element reminds us of why and how we compete in these games. A stylized trillium stands out against a background of snowflakes to highlight Ontario and winter,” according to a description on the Orillia 2018 Ontario Winter Games Facebook page. “As a host city, Orillia provides a location that embraces its guests, develops its people, and enjoys its environment. The two-part reverse logo symbolizes this character. Working together, these elements speak to the essence of the Ontario Winter Games in Orillia.”

“We’re really excited to have the athletes receive these,” Ladouceur said.

There will be about 3,200 participants taking part in 25 sports at 20 facilities in the region. Organizers expect the event to result in an estimated $6 million in economic activity.

All participating athletes are between 12 and 18 years of age.

Opening ceremonies will take place March 1 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Couchiching Beach Park. It will include a performance by Juno-nominated hometown rock band Bleeker.

“We encourage everyone to come out to the events and the opening ceremonies to cheer on all of the athletes,” Ladouceur said.

Admission to all events is free.

Events include Alpine skiing, weightlifting, hockey, figure skating, badminton and many more.

For more information, visit orillia2018.ca.


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Nathan Taylor

About the Author: Nathan Taylor

Nathan Taylor is the desk editor for Village Media's central Ontario news desk in Simcoe County and Newmarket.
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