The 2018 Alberta Summer Games festivities got rolling Wednesday with the unveiling of the medals and the torch relay. The unveiling was held at RBC’s main branch in Grande Prairie, as the bank is the official media sponsor of the games.
RBC also used the opportunity to introduce three local youth who won their Alberta Summer Games Community Ambassador Contest. 16-year-old Seanna Morrison, 15-year-old Katlyn Chonkolay, and 15-year-old Mandy Mah will be presenting athletes with medals during the closing awards.
“RBC is proud to shine the spotlight on the incredible young people in our communities,” says RBC Regional Vice President Alberta North Trent Waughtal.
The teens qualified by writing essays on what community means to them and how they are making an impact in their own. Seanna of Silver Valley got to hold the gold medal. She says it’s a point of pride to be recognized.
“I feel really honoured, especially from being in a small community. I live two hours out of Grande Prairie, so I feel honoured to be an ambassador.”
Holding the silver medal was Kaytlyn, who volunteers her time to coach soccer in Sexsmith and at the Teepee Creek Stampede. She encourages others to get more involved in their community.
“You definitely should,” she says. “It’s worth it. It’s really cool; I’ve never had an experience like this before.”
Rounding out the trio with the bronze medal is Mandy from Grande Prairie. She’s looking forward to representing her hometown at the games this week.
“Usually big things don’t happen here, so it’s kind of fun to show other people how sports can help around the community.”
The grade 10 students also received a $250 Visa gift card and a summer games pass. They’re all most looking forward to watching the basketball competition.