Talk about taking the scenic route. The 2010 Olympic Torch Relay began October 30, 2009, kicking off the longest domestic torch relay in history. Starting in Victoria, the Olympic Flame embarked on a 45,000-kilometre journey around the country’s most breathtaking landscapes, passing through 1,030 communities across Canada.

It was, for all intents and purposes, a clear sign that the 2010 Winter Games were coming. After all, the start of the relay ignited a lineup of nearly 200 celebrations across Canada that will payed tribute to the Olympic Flame, an ancient symbol of the Olympic Games. Its meaning: peace, fellowship and friendship. No wonder the journey of the Olympic Flame awakened the joy and excitement of the Games in everyone’s hearts.

“Our goal with these celebrations has always been to bring the magic and excitement of the Olympic Spirit home to millions of Canadians no matter where they live and truly make these Canada’s Games,” said John Furlong, CEO of VANOC as the relay began. “Our celebration communities are so excited to welcome the Olympic Flame, and they’ve planned some truly memorable and inspirational entertainment for the crowds.”

Memorable, too, are the modes of transportation that were used for the Olympic Flame. Dog sleds, seaplanes, canoes, horses, ferries, surfboards and nearly a hundred more will all help the Olympic Flame make its way around the country. In addition, more than 12,000 torchbearers helped carry the flame, and if that didn’t spark Canadian pride, we don’t know what will.

Fun Facts about the Torch

• Look for the maple leaf on the 2010 Olympic Torch. Not only does it represent Canada, it serves to take in oxygen to keep the flame burning brightly.
• You’ll also notice the official Vancouver 2010 Olympic emblem, the inukshuk, an ancient symbol representing hope and friendship.
• The torch, designed by Bombadier, was inspired by Canada’s open land and the natural lines formed by snow and ice.

For more information bout the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay, visit VANOC’s torch relay page.