Toronto Mike

My Evolving Thoughts on the Pan Am Games

In early June, I wrote that I was still completely underwhelmed by the Pan Am Games. Now that they're finally here, it's time for an update.

I attended a couple of torch relay celebrations over the past week. Here's something I wrote about seeing Natalie Spooner light the cauldron in southwest Toronto. I'll admit it, attending the three hour party really warmed me to the spirit.

Then, on Friday, I rode to Queen's Quay and watched another torch relay. That night, I tuned into the opening ceremonies from the venue formerly known as Skydome and was thoroughly impressed. It closed with a spectacular fireworks display from the CN Tower.

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By this point, I was into the Pan Am Games. My kids saw diving at the new CIBC Pan Am / Parapan Am Aquatics Centre and Field House and loved it. I'm following the results, watching when I can, and feeling the spirit.

Torontonians love to complain about traffic and I've got friends hoping these Pan Am Games are a colossal failure. I've decided to join the party and embrace the event. It's more fun this way.

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