Hello Canada,

Well, things are looking UP and things are looking DOWN here in Athens. The team played scrimmage games against Germany and Japan over the past two days. In yesterday's game against Germany we started pretty slow (part of the DOWN), but then things started clicking in the 2nd half with a fairly easy coast to a win.

In today's six period battle, the defense just swarmed Japan and things really started to come together. Last night, Team Canada enjoyed a Salute from politicians, sponsors, families and friends at the Canadian Team Reception. The surprise of the evening was the appearance of a certain Rugby player who joined the artist on stage to "belt out" the National Anthem. Drum roll please............Will David Willsie please get out here and give it up? Davey did us proud and surprised EVERYONE, except yours truly. He was AWESOME!

Mr. Garett Hickling carried the Paralympic Flame today in the Torch Relay. We're working on downloading pictures so that everyone can share in this fantastic event with G. In Athens time, we spent four hours to get to, and return from, a three-minute carry of the Flame. That's how things work here.

On the DOWN side, once again, the families have been having some challenges with accommodation, but thanks to Gail from BC and Eron from Ottawa, all is well. These are two awesome volunteers who have worked hard to make things flow smoothly for the terrific families that are here supporting our athletes.

Sally Thomas and Ken Doyle put in some great training sessions today at the Powerlifting venue. Coach Donald Royer is very pleased with their progress and confident that they will be ready for their competitions. Sally lifts on Monday, September 20th and Ken lifts on the 26th.

Tomorrow is a preparation day, outside of the gym, capped off by the Opening Ceremonies. Latest news is that we leave at 6:30pm, with a start time of 8:30pm and a finish time of 11:30pm with a return by 1:30am. In GREEK time, we might be home by 4:00am, but it will be AWESOME!

All of Canada's athletes have great access to email, so keep the warm wishes coming. They'll receive them. We'll do you proud tomorrow night Canada.

From Athens!

- Cathy