What a time to be Canadian!

The heart-stopping overtime goal that brought men’s hockey gold back to Canada was the perfect finish to a historic Winter Games for our country.

As Canadians from coast to coast to coast poured out into the streets to celebrate the gold medal win at the hockey game, it was clear that the celebration was about much more than that single victory. It wasn’t even just that Canada’s fourteen gold medals is one more than any other country has ever won at a Winter Olympic Games. We were united with pride and a sense of accomplishment.

Over the past two weeks we have put our country’s greatness on the world stage and we met and exceeded our own expectations.
The unparalleled bravery of a young figure skater and the inspiration that lead a freestyle skier to Canada’s first gold on home soil are just two of the lasting memories that will come from these games. But their legacy will likely be even greater. Far from the glamour and lights of the Olympics, young Canadians now have a new inspiration to lead active, healthier lives.

Sidney Crosby’s game-winning goal will be replayed on streets and ponds, lakes and community rinks for years to come; boys and girls will push themselves to land that axel or skate that extra second faster; and children will grab their crazy carpets and toboggans and imagine they are sliding down an icy course in pursuit of bobsleigh greatness.

To all of our athletes, you have inspired a country and you have all made us very proud.

Once again, congratulations and, on behalf of all New Democrats, thank you.