The 2014 Commonwealth Games kicked off in Glasgow, Scotland this week, representing the latest tartan tinge running through Saanich sport this summer.
The gripping and brilliantly well-attended Rangers FC vs. Highlanders FC match at Centennial Stadium on Monday was another welcome Scottish connection, while the Victoria Highland Games and Celtic Festival served as the perfect introduction to our summer of Scots last May.
It’s amazing to see Broadmead-based Kirsten Sweetland and fellow Saanichites Matt Sharpe and Ellen Pennock fighting for medals in the men’s and women’s triathlon final.
And Saanich’s returning gold medalist, swimmer Ryan Cochrane, is hunting another podium after winning gold in the 400- and 1,500-metre freestyle at the Delhi Commonwealth Games in 2010.
His teammates in the pool include Saanich Commonwealth Place regulars Hilary Caldwell, Alec Page and Will Brothers.
It’s heartbreaking in equal turn to hear Gordon Head cyclist Nic Hamilton suffered a concussion during a devastating wipeout on the track during a training run earlier this week. But there is some hope as Hamilton could compete in the road events later in the Games. In the end, the legacy of Saanich’s 1994 Commonwealth Games is sure to shine through in Glasgow next week as the results roll in. Yet whatever the outcome, it’s time to raise a dram of whiskey and say cheers to the Scots for a great summer of sport.