RBC’s Carry the Torch contest: Two weeks to go! – Feature Stories – Vancouver 2010
Do you dream of carrying the Olympic Flame during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay? If you haven’t yet signed up to be a torchbearer at rbc.com/carrythetorch, it’s time to apply today! With the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay beginning in four months, RBC is closing its contest on July 15th, 2009.
“We still have close to 500 torchbearer spots available. This is the last chance Canadians have to be an Olympic Torchbearer, be a part of Canadian history and make a contribution to the legacy of these Olympic Winter Games,” said Jacqueline Ryan, director, Olympic marketing at RBC.
The Carry the Torch contest invites Canadians to “create a better Canada” by simply sharing a personal pledge to do something small or large in their daily lives that will make Canada an even better place to live. “RBC has a proud heritage of supporting community initiatives, and the Olympic Torch Relay is an ideal way to recognize many community-minded people,” said Ryan.
Inspiring pledges
Among the numerous applications received, RBC has recognized a few inspiring pledges. “For a few of the winning torchbearers, we read their pledge and felt it was compelling and demonstrated how a simple act — volunteering, mentoring or making lifestyle changes — can make a difference in our communities and help create a better Canada. We wanted to recognize them publicly so they could inspire others,” said Ryan.
Thirty-eight year old Jeff Pattison of Oakville, Ontario made the pledge to start running and compete in long distance races to raise money. He’s donating what he raises to charity in honour of his late grandfather who was a huge Olympic fan. “In addition to the money, I hope that I inspire my family and friends to lead a more active lifestyle.”
Shelley Deacon of Burnaby, BC, teaches at an elementary school in east Vancouver and became a committed basketball coach to a group of grade seven girls. She pledged to continue coaching while on maternity leave to help the girls advance to high school with a strong sense of self. “I feel that by showing them a strong role model (eating healthy, getting exercise and by being a positive coach) they will head into high school feeling a strong sense of self-worth and know who they want to be.”
RBC also recognized a number of pledges during their Community Celebration Week from June 22 to 26 that honour the efforts of Canadians, big or small, who make a difference in their communities.
Bicentennial School’s Principal and first RBC Olympic Torchbearer in Halifax,
Frank Hayden with his students
One such pledge was made by Frank Hayden of Halifax, Nova Scotia who wants to create stronger communities. “At my school, where I am the principal, we have a breakfast program and I plan to expand this support for students by starting a school food bank. My own personal pledge is to purchase and donate extra grocery items every time I do my own shopping. I will continue to create initiatives at school where students, staff and the community donate food items and/or vouchers,” he wrote.
It’s not too late to apply to be a 2010 Olympic Torchbearer! If you’re taking action to make yourself, your community or your country better and if you would like to carry the Olympic Flame at home in Canada, enter today at rbc.com/carrythetorch.