Cranbrook athletes continue to excel at the highest levels of sport.  Most recently, hometown Olympian Ben Rutledge returned from the Olympic Games in Beijing with a gold medal in hand.

 In what was one of the highest profile stories of the 2008 Olympic Games,  Rutledge and the men’s eight rowing team set out to finish a job they started in Athens in 2004.  Everyone recalls the team’s disappointment four years ago when Canada went in to the medal round as the gold favourite, only to finish a disappointing fifth place.  Determination and an incredible focus saw Rutledge and his team mates prevail, dominating the event from start to finish.

East Kootenay residents have had many opportunities in recent years to see and touch the Stanley Cup.  Now they will have the opportunity to do the same with an Olympic Gold medal.  Ben Rutledge will bring his gold medal to a special ceremony hosted by the City of Cranbrook and the Cranbrook Spirit of BC Committee. 

The celebration will include special guests and presentations.  Rutledge will address the crowd and host a brief question and answer.  Everyone is encouraged to further show their spirit by wearing red and white.   Bring a camera as there will be photo and autograph opportunities following the ceremony.   In addition, photographs will be available for purchase to support local charities.

For those unable to attend the event, you can pass along your congratulations by signing the guest book at City Hall on September 2^nd and 3^rd.  The book will also be on site during the celebration, and will be presented to Rutledge.

This outside event will take place on September 4^th at 6:30 pm in the northeast area of the RecPlex parking lot.  If weather does not cooperate, the event will take place in the Curling Rink.

For more information, contact Chris New at the City of Cranbrook, 250-489-0040, ext. 252