Congratulations to Canada!

Wow, what a sensational game yesterday afternoon and what a sensational Olympic games performance by my fellow Canadians: those who competed and those who supported those who competed.

I am so impressed by the richness of talent and spirit demonstrated repeatedly by our athletes and those in attendance. And felt lucky to witness the both the victories, near victories and bittersweet defeats.

Years from now, people will ask each other where they were when Sid the Kid yelled for “Iggy!!” (teammate Jerome Iginla) to pass him the puck as he made toward the net from the corner. With a guy draped all over him against the glass, Iginla feathered the pass so that Crosby stepped into it and snapped it in one motion. Then it was in. And then the entire bar I was in roared with joy and, I dear say, relief.

The American team was a most excellent blend of speed, tenacity and accuracy. And their goaltender, Ryan Miller, was phenomenal. Unlike the Slovaks, the Americans tied the game with 26 seconds left and could just as easily have won. That’s how close it was.

Come overtime, the Canucks seemed to have regained their composure and poise and were playing like it was 1st and 2nd periods. That set the stage for Mr. Crosby whose shoot out prowess also got us past the stubborn Swiss.

And let’s not forget our golden woman’s hockey team. One of girls on the Swedish team called them a machine. While watching them take it to the Yanks, I would agree. Terrific transition game, smart defensive work, a minimum of loose pucks, goalie with a lighting glove hand: a professional hockey team with no passengers.

It was a great day for Canada today; a great Olympic games as well. It was funny to hear comments from international guests who never imagined we were so passionate about things. Well, my goodness, there was so much to cheer about! Our skiiers, our skaters, our dancers, our speedsters, our heroes – and those 15,000 volunteers whose dedication and altruism made it all possible.

Congratulations to everyone! Good job.

So someday, when we meet, I’ll ask you, “Where were you when Sid did his magic trick?”

And we’ll celebrate once again.