Canada Summer Games torch lights up Port aux Basques on arrival to Newfoundland
The torch representing the light of the 2025 Canada Summer Games has officially arrived in Newfoundland and Labrador.
The torch was first lit on Parliament Hill. Membertou, N.S. was the first stop of its journey to the host province of the games and then Marine Atlantic brought it to Port Aux Basques by ferry. Now, the torch will continue its tour making stops in 15 communities across Newfoundland and Labrador before arriving in St. John's on Aug. 1.
Cheryl Macintosh, a Marine Atlantic assistant steward of 24 years, ran the final leg to deliver the torch to the MV Highlanders ferry.
"I think it's the most honourable thing that someone can do for such a big [event]. The Canada Games is everything to me," Macintosh told CBC News Saturday.
The Canada Summer Games are considered the pinnacle of competition for amateur athletes in Canada. Newfoundland and Labrador will welcome over 4,200 participants from across the country competing in 244 events in 19 sports from Aug. 8-25.
The ferry was full of activities for those who went along for the ride, including Indigenous craftwork, a scavenger hunt for children, and a photo op with the flame — which was transferred into a lantern for the journey.
Premier John Hogan welcomed the torch upon its arrival in Port aux Basques along with a crowd of spectators at the Marine Atlantic ferry terminal.
Macintosh said she was running with both her family and work family at heart. She applied to be a torchbearer with her son, Adam, in mind. He celebrated his 40th birthday on Sunday.
"He comes down and he waves to the boat everyday I'm at sea … it just makes me proud that he is behind me all the time," she said.
WATCH | Gold medalists light Canada Games' torch on Parliament Hill :
"He's going to be with me today, and I'm doing this for him."
She also shared a moment with Heidi Thomas, captain of the Highlanders, and was welcomed to the ship's deck by cheering co-workers.
"It was a pretty special moment, for sure," Thomas said. "There's definitely a sense of family here on board."
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