SLED DOGS

In 1988 a group of enthusiastic volunteers assembled to work as the Ladies’ Technical Course Crew for Olympic Winter Games in Calgary. High winds and higher temperatures created huge challenges for the entire Organizing Committee and consequently crews worked around the clock to get races off. The Course Crew determined that they were being worked like “dogs”.

The analogy morphed into that of a Siberian Husky; a breed known for its loyalty, intelligence, speed, endurance and its preference for the outdoors - also its ability to work hard and haul a lot of stuff. The Sled Dogs were born and quickly defined themselves by their work ethic and their ability to enjoy the festivities and when necessary, create them.

The essence of a Sled Dog is captured in our brand. First and foremost he has a sparkle in his eye, a little bit of an attitude, confident, that “relish in the face of adversity” kind of a look. He is ready for the task at hand with his belt, drill and shovel at the ready as well a frosty beverage for the end of the day.

Today The Sled Dogs are recognized throughout ski racing circles as the volunteers corps of the Lake Louise Winterstart World Cup who come together to ensure the Men’s and Ladies’ races go off without a hitch.

Being a Sled Dog is no ordinary volunteer job - work hard, play hard is the credo. The friendships, the laughs and the experience make it all worth while.

Sunday, September 27, 2009

NEWS FROM THE GAMES

Questions are abound about what and may not be happening at the Games of 2010. Some points of clarification:

ACCOMMODATIONS

The VANOC Alpine Working Group is very comfortable in announcing that accommodation needs for all volunteers are handled and that they will be suitable both in facilities and location, IE rapid response to changes in the work schedule and weather conditions. Please do not expect more details on this topic until sometime in November at the earliest.

For those of you who were considering camping alternatives, it appears that RV sites will not be available. Private arrangements may still exist but will not be covered in the greater accommodation plan.

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Volunteers are asked to be considerate of Olympic Partners when importing products into the Venue. EG: Coca-Cola and its family of products, Powerade, Dasani, Nestea, Full Throttle, Minute Maid, Fruitopia et al, hold exclusive rights to the Games. Products manufactured by competitors of any Games Partners, international or domestic, are taboo.

Remember to pack your refillable water bottle and coffee mug - it's good for the environment and an excellent tool to avoid brand concerns.

OLYMPIC BRANDING POLICY

Wondering about the logo police? Trying to figure out why coloured duct tape will be your friend in February? Questions pertaining to branding and logo use at Games Venues are available via
http://www.vancouver2010.com/en/about-vanoc/the-vancouver-2010-brand/protecting-the-brand/-/33052/32798/13kxv7q/2010-olympicparalympic-brand-m.html.

CHECK-IN & TRAINING

As noted previously the process of travel, arrival, accreditation, uniform pick up, room assignment, Venue specific training (safety video, job specifics etc) will require 2 days in advance of your 1st day on snow. Please budget approximately 2 hours for the check-in process while Venue Training will be in the neighbourhood of 4 hours.

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION TENT

The Alpine Skiing Venue at Whistler Creekside is the only location of all 2010 Olympic Host Sites to be fortunate enough to have this type of facility. Thanks to Owen Carney and the Alpine Volunteer Committee for securing the site, the necessary accoutrements and all their work in making it a reality.

At this time several initiatives are underway for you to get involved in including a garment purchase opportunity as well as keg sponsorship in Weasel House. Please visit
http://www.weaselworkers.com/Misc/Weasel_House.html for more details.

NEWS FROM THE VILLAGE

The Resort Municipality of Whistler in conjunction has created the following document for residents and visitors alike to answer questions about getting around the Village at Games time. This information is current as of July 2009 and is subject to change.

http://www.whistler.ca/images/stories/2010/Whistler%20Game%20Plan%20FINAL%20PRESENTATION%20-%20July%2029.pdf

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