Olympic torch lit in Greece, begins long trip to Vancouver for 2010 Games

October 23, 2:06 AMCanada Headlines ExaminerJill Browne

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The torch for the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Winter Games was lit today in Olympia, Greece.  The lighting of the Olympic torch symbolizes the beginning of the next Olympic Games. From now until February 12, 2010, the world can watch the Games get closer.

CBC's website is carrying a video clip of the torch lighting ceremony. A Greek priestess lit the flame using a parabolic mirror to capture the sun's rays in a traditional ritual.  As CTV somewhat less reverently pointed out, the priestesses in the ceremony were actors.  The Vancouver 2010 website gives the details of some of the traditional parts of the ceremony, including the words of the prayer of the high priestess to the god Apollo.

Although it was a hot day in Olympia, the first torch bearers, members of the Greek winter Olympics team, wore winter clothes to begin the relay. 

Follow the Olympic torch on an interactive map, and see its route in Canada, where the relay begins on October 30.

The torches that the individual runners will carry to bring the torch from Greece to Vancouver were made by Bombardier in Quebec.

Everyone agrees, this puts the spotlight and pressure on Vancouver, even more intensely than before.  VANOC (the organizing committee) has a website with an Olympic countdown calendar and updates on the preparations.  Transportation and accommodations will be the main logistical concerns.