The Olympic Torch Relay begins!

B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell (left) stands with the first two runners of the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay, both former Olympic medalists: triathlete Simon Whitfield (middle) and speed skater Catriona Le May Doan. Photo: Kari Bodnarchuk

The Olympic torch began its epic journey today in Victoria, British Columbia, the start of a relay that will cover nearly 28,000 miles between now and February 12, 2010, when the Olympics begin. One of the best things about a city the size (pop. 80,000) and vibe (very laid back) as Victoria is that you actually get a shot of seeing and being a part of a major event like this one. Even though we showed up in downtown Victoria—in front of the legislative building overlooking the wharf—just 20 minutes before the flame arrived here by dugout canoe, we were still able to get front-row spots along the fence. Thousands of people joined us on this 60-degree, overcast day to watch a ceremonial party of first Nations chiefs bring the flame into the harbor on a 40-foot canoe (it arrived by plane from Athens, Greece, this morning and this is the first Olympics in history being co-hosted by an aboriginal group).

People with Canadian maple leaves painted on their faces and red and white souvenir mittens and shirts waved flags and cheered as the flame was carried along the wharf in a miner’s lantern and then up to a stage in front of the Parliament Buildings. After speeches by various chiefs, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and British Columbia Premier Gordon Campbell, who mentioned that the flame will also travel by logging truck and skateboard, the first torchbearers were finally released—this had been a well-kept secret until today. The initial two runners to carry the flame are former Canadian Olympians Simon Whitfield, a triathlete, and Catriona Le May Doan, a speed skater, who handed off to three-time world champ and Olympic diver Alexandre Despatie and rower Silken Laumann, one of the most decorated Canadian athletes ever. All, except Alexandre, have lived, worked or trained around Victoria and are the most “down-to-earth, regular people,” according to the concierge at the Hotel Grand Pacific in downtown Victoria.

While we sit here eating shrimp and avocado sandwiches at Sam’s Deli, adjacent to the Tourism Victoria Visitor Centre and right next door to the Royal BC Museum (check out the amazing First Nations exhibits here) and the very grand and regal Empress Hotel (known for its high tea), the flame is running around town. Exactly 147 torchbearers will carry the flame around the city today, each running about 900 feet for a total of 56 miles. Meanwhile, the city is buzzing with visitors -- people taking float plane tours, visiting the renowned Butchart Gardens and wandering around the shops along Government Street.

Tonight, we’ll all gather back at the stage overlooking the waterfront to see the Olympic cauldron lit and join in a city-wide celebration. The big event includes fireworks, dancing, First Nations drumming, and performances by dozens of jazz, world, folk and classical musicians. It's a must if you're anywhere near Victoria.