February 21, 2016
By Jessica Barrett – The second Youth Olympic Winter Games wrap up today in Lillehammer, Norway. Youth Olympic champion ski cross racer Reece Howden was chosen as Canada’s flag bearer.
The 17-year-old from Cultus Lake, B.C. will lead 53 Canadian athletes into to the Closing Ceremony this evening at Sjogg Tent at Stampesletta.
Gold medallist Reece Howden CAN poses on the podium after the Men’s Ski Cross at the Hafjell Freepark during the Winter Youth Olympic Games, Lillehammer Norway, 15 February 2016. Photo: Simon Bruty for YIS/IOC Handout image supplied by YIS/IOC
“Leading the team into the closing ceremony makes my experience here even more memorable. I felt the excitement of major international competition, the pride of standing on the podium and the joy of sharing this amazing experience with other athletes from so many different countries. I feel like this will help me grow as an athlete and a person.”
Reece Howden CAN (Left) and Cornel Renn GER compete during the Men’s Ski Cross at the Hafjell Freepark at the Winter Youth Olympic Games, Lillehammer Norway, 15 February 2016. Photo: Arnt Folvik for YIS/IOC Handout image supplied by YIS/IOC
Reece was selected based on his competitive performance (1st in men’s ski cross, 4th in team ski-snowboard cross – winning all of his heats) and for his positive attitude and encouragement of other athletes throughout the Games.
“He is a tough competitor who made our country shine on the slopes and a fine young man determined to make the most of this experience,” says Isabelle Charest, Canadian Chef de Mission. “He cheered his teammates from the stands and was a constant presence in most cultural and educational activities. He exemplified the spirit of YOG.” She added, “I’m so proud of all of our Canadian athletes for their brilliant performances in competition and for having fully lived up to the ideal of these Games. They have taken advantage of the unique opportunity and shared with other athletes from different countries. They have represented Canada extremely well and I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to lead a team of bright, driven and determined young individuals.”
