The journey begins
Team P.E.I. left Thursday for Red Deer, Alta., to take part in multi-sport competition
After years of hard work, Island athletes, coaches and managers have arrived in Red Deer, Alta., for the Canada Games.
Georgia Fraser, a 15-year-old Souris native, said prior to leaving Thursday morning it was a long process that took a lot of time, effort and money to make P.E.I.’s ringette team.
“So, to be here, is just so surreal and crazy,” she said from the Charlottetown Airport.
Team P.E.I.’s first week contingent also includes biathlon, gymnastics, boys’ hockey, speed skating and table tennis. There are about 90 members of the contingent. They were scheduled to leave P.E.I. at 9 a.m. but it was around 10:30 a.m. when the flight departed.
Harrison James was the first Island athlete at the airport.
The Summerside hockey player’s parents left on an early flight, so he waited for the rest of his team to arrive.
After two years of tryouts and practices, as well as working out in the gym and on the ice, departure day finally arrived.
“It’s been great, and I have put a lot of effort into making this team,” he said. “I just can’t wait to get there.”
Peter McQuaid attended the 2015 Games in Prince George, B.C., and is looking forward to competing again with the speed skating team. He said the Games is a great experience that includes making new friends and competing at a high level.
“It’s exciting,” he said. “Everybody is ready to go. I’m glad to see a lot of athletes who have definitely put in the work to get this far.”
Kyle Dunn, head coach of the hockey team, said Thursday’s plan was to check in, get settled and tour the athletes’ village. They have a team practice set for early this morning before attending the opening ceremonies at 10 p.m. Atlantic.
They open play on Saturday. The hockey team was introduced on the ice before Wednesday’s Charlottetown Islanders home game with the Saint John Sea Dogs.
“It was cool to get recognized at the game,” said James, calling it a privilege to represent Prince Edward Island at the Games.
Members of the team who live in the eastern and western ends of the province spent the night with a buddy in central P.E.I. to make it easier to get to the airport in the morning.
“Everyone comes together, and we’re all like one big family and we’re all a team now,” said James, who plays for the Rothesay Netherwood School Riverhawks in New Brunswick.
Dunn said each athlete has worked hard to earn a spot on Team P.E.I.
“Today is finally here,” he said. “There’s a lot of excitement around. You can just see the smiles on the kids’ faces. It’s exciting to be a part of.”
The second week athletes will leave on Feb. 23, compete in their sports and attend the closing ceremonies on March 2.