The Vancouver 2010 Organising Committee (VANOC) announced its Olympic Torch Relay route.
After arriving in Canada, the Olympic flame’s journey will see it travel from coast to coast to coast beginning in Victoria, British Columbia, before arriving at the Opening Ceremony of the Games 106 days later in Vancouver. The flame will start its journey in Canada on 30 October 2009 after the traditional lighting ceremony is held in Olympia, Greece.
Commenting on the Relay, IOC President Jacques Rogge said: “The Olympic Torch Relay holds a unique place in people’s hearts. It not only marks the final countdown to the Games, building the excitement and expectation of people across the host nation and world as it winds its way towards the host city, but it also carries with it a message of peace and hope, transmitting the Olympic spirit to all who come out and celebrate its journey.”
The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay will travel over 45,000 kilometres within Canada, travelling 1,000 by water, 18,000 kilometres in the air and 26,000 kilometres on land. This journey will see the flame touch 1,000 communities and pass within a one-hour drive of more than 90 per cent of the Canadian population.
