Olympic Torch rolls through Kitchener/Waterloo
Posted Dec 28, 2009 03:29:21 AM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Thousands of people lined Duke and King Streets in downtown Kitchener last night to see the Olympic flame light the Olympic cauldron at city hall.
Over in Cambridge, there was thunderous applause and cheering as the Olympic torch arrived yesterday afternoon. Hundreds crowded around the stage at Cambridge City Hall to watch the event, many of whom told 570 News, it was a once in a lifetime experience. Several Dignitaries spoke ahead of the flame’s arrival including Mayor Doug Craig, Cambridge MP Gary Goodyear and local Olympian Leigh Hobson. Residents and dignitaries then sang “Oh Canada” as the torch made its way on stage.
There was lots for residents to see as they waited for the torch to arrive including spectacular trampoline demonstrations, and Olympic displays. After the torch left, residents got a chance to take pictures and meet with torch bearers.
In Waterloo, the sidewalks were packed as residents braved the chilly temperature to take a photo or cheer on the torch runner down King Street yesterday afternoon. It started its journey in Waterloo at Glenridge Plaza on University Avenue before making its way down King Street to the Square. The flame was then sent off towards Kitchener with a rousing rendition of the national anthem.
In Kitchener, youth hockey volunteer Pat Doherty touched torches with Blackberry billionaire Jim Balsillie at King and Ontario street, before hopping onto a golf cart and heading over to the main stage.
