While drag racing will probably never find itself as an Olympic sport anytime soon – especially during the winter games – that doesn’t mean drag racing enthusiasts can’t still get in on the pomp and circumstance surrounding the world’s ultimate sporting competition.
Castrol Raceway owner Rob Reeves has been selected to be one of an estimated 12,000 torchbearers for the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver and is more than excited about the opportunity to take part in history when the Olympic Flame passes through Edmonton, Alberta next week.
“It is truly a great honor and a once in a lifetime experience. There are only so many people who get this opportunity and only 50 in Edmonton,” Reeves said. “I get to be a part of history and global pride, an ambassador of the Olympic Spirit. The Olympic Flame represents a long standing symbol of peace, unity and friendship to light up our land.”
Reeves will be receive the Olympic Flame at approximately 6:40 p.m. on Wednesday, January 13 and will carry it a distance of a quarter-mile – fitting for the owner of one of Canada’s top drag racing facilities – as the flame makes its way from its starting point in Olympia, Greece to its final resting place at the BC Place Stadium in Vancouver in mid-February.
ROB REEVES
"Over the course of the Olympic Torch Relay a flame is continuously passed from torchbearer to torchbearer across the world, traveling from Olympia to the stadium where the Olympic Games are held,” Reeves said. “It is quite an exciting occasion and one that requires a lot of planning and preparation. I received my uniform along with a booklet instructing me on how to prepare for the relay before Christmas.
“What to eat, what to wear, where to be, what to bring – everything is specifically laid out. The organizers are very thorough. I truly can’t wait to take part in this wonderful opportunity.”
Following the run Reeves said his friends and family plan to throw a party to celebrate the occasion. He also added that in addition to having such a unique opportunity he will also get to keep the torch as a memento from the event.
Reeves was presented with the opportunity thanks to his longtime involvement with Coca-Cola at Castrol Raceway.
“I was sponsored by Coca-Cola Bottling Ltd. here in Edmonton. Our relationship via the track over the last 12 years has been exceptional. Jim White and his wife Vicky have become truly great friends,” Reeves said. “I was honored when I received his call to ask if I would like to participate as an official torchbearer for the Olympic Flame.”
CASTROL RACEWAY
While Reeves will not be able to attend the games personally, he said he is looking forward to watching the games from his home in Edmonton. He also added that an event such as this reminds him how thrilling it is to be able to host his own major sporting event in Canada as he prepares for the start of the racing season at Castrol Raceway in just a few short months.
“Castrol Raceway is very busy right now. Ticket sales for the 2010 season are steadily coming in. I am truly looking forward to this year and having Nitro Jam back once again. The event is always a highlight to my summer,” Reeves said. “The racetrack is my passion, not my profession, and it is always great when a business gives you so much personal pleasure.”
From Larry Crum / Feld Inc.
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