My speech

Here is what I said when it was my turn to speak:

Yasas,(hello in Greek). My name is Debbie McLeod, I am from Vancouver British Columbia, Canada. I am a police officer with the Delta Police Dept, just outside of Vancouver (some cheers from the crowd).

I first became involved in LETR in 1999 and have been have been hooked ever since. Each year I coordinate with other police officers to promote the message of hope in a 4 day 100 kilometer LETR through several communities.

Tonight I am truly honored to be here with the Final Leg Team of law enforcement officer from around the world along with our three athletes;
Panos from Greece, Stephane Smith from Ontario Canada, and Adam Hayes from Maryland USA. (I point to him on stage) They keep us strong. (The crowd cheers and I knew then I could get through this…)

As guardians of the flame we deliver the message of hope to many communities in Greece until we reach our final destination in Athens, where we will safely deliver the flame of hope to open the 2011 world summer games on June 25. (More cheers from the crowd..)

The games will host 7000 athletes from 180 countries, 2,500 coaches, 25,000 volunteers and family and friends. I am especially proud of one Canadian athlete, who is from my community, Stacey Kohler. She will be competing in several track and field events. She runs every year with me in our local torch run and has won 3 gold metals in the National Games in Canada.

She holds a special place in my heart. This is a flame of hope. (I point to the large caldron on the stage) It stands for hope, courage, opportunity, inspiration and equality for all our athletes. And I am in. Imemesa!!! (Greek for I am in the slogan).

Thank you very much for the privilege here today.