Bowen's Olympic spirit

When the Olympic torch arrives on Bowen on February 10, 2010, the community will be ready to welcome it in style, thanks to the work and dedication of the Spirit of Bowen Committee.

The committee recently announced that it has received funding from the provincial government for a community celebration commemorating the Olympic torch relay.

“We started the Spirit of Bowen Committee about four years ago. Through the spirit committee, we have started, and plan to continue, the Winterfest celebration that has happened in February each year,” said Murray Atherton, chair of the Spirit of Bowen Committee. “We have put together the LiteracyNow program for Bowen and have assisted in generating funding for a number of recreation, arts and cultural programs.”

In addition to Atherton, the committee consists of Sarah Haxby, community school coordinator; Daniel Heald, Bowen Island Chamber of Commerce president; Jacqueline Massey, executive director of the Bowen Island Arts Council; Peter Boronkay, member of the Canadian Olympic Committee; Catherine Patterson, Don Southern, RCMP; and Christine Walker, community recreation supervisor of the Bowen Island Municipality which will administer the funds.

The Spirit of Bowen Committee’s focus is not only on the day of the torch relay. A public art installation to beautify the entrance to Snug Cove in preparation for the event is planned. And a call for submission has gone out to Bowen’s songwriting talents. The winning song will be circulated and promoted locally as well as off island as Bowen’s theme song. During the Olympics, a show at The Gallery at Artisan Square will feature artwork by local youth to reflect their take on the spirit of the Olympics.

The year 2010 marks the third annual Winterfest that will feature the bonfire, chocolate and fruit fondue, lantern festival and family sing-a-long that have become Bowen traditions. In addition to the events prior to the Olympics, the Spirit of Bowen Committee is working to create spaces where members of the community can come together for a public viewing of some of the key Olympic events. It is also envisioned that those public gatherings will include short performances by local musicians and actors.

The Olympic torch will stop on Bowen in the early morning hours on Feb. 10. About the festivities planned for the day, Atherton said, “We are working with the torch relay team of Vancouver 2010 to ensure that the welcoming of the Olympic Torch on Bowen’s shores two days before the opening ceremony is a celebration that islanders will remember for many years to come.”

He didn’t disclose any details but added, “We are limited in the amount of information we can release until we get the final approval from the torch relay team. But just a hint: Plan to wake up early that morning!”