Vancouver 2010 Terry Fox Award

The Vancouver Organizing Committee (VANOC) announced the creation of the Terry Fox Award in collaboration with the Fox family in December of 2009. On February 27, 2010 Joannie Rochette and Petra Majdic were the recipents of this prestigous award after their outstanding and courageous performances in figure skating and cross country skiing respectively. The Terry Fox Award was intended for the athelete who best embodied the qualities that Terry lived by: courage, perseverance and determination.

Following are a few paragraphs from an article published by the Vancouver Organizing Committee;

“Few people have touched the soul of this great nation like Terry Fox did on his Marathon of Hope in 1980. In honour of his spirit we created this award with the Fox family ― one which we’re proud to present today to Petra and Joannie,” said VANOC CEO John Furlong.

“Petra showed true grit when she picked herself up and stayed on to compete at Whistler Olympic Park in the women's sprint classic after sustaining an injury while warming up on the course. She performed in pain knowing her country and family were counting on her to win Slovenia’s first medal at the Games ― and she did with a bronze medal finish.”

“Joannie also touched all of us this week with her determination to push on and compete here at Canada’s Games even as she struggled with the painful sudden loss of her mother, Thérèse. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house when she took to the ice on Tuesday after her mother’s death. We all held our breath and willed her on as she gave a remarkable, dignified performance ― one that helped her earn bronze. Her grief, determination and her grace have touched all of us.”

“Both women are an inspiration to all of us and have provided us with unforgettable performances at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games,” continued Furlong.

The undulating awards are made out of nickel and wood and are inspired by the geography of Canada. They are also similar in style to the Vancouver 2010 medals presented at the Games. The award also includes a quote from the Canadian hero: I want to set an example that will never be forgotten/J’aimerais donner un exemple qui ne sera jamais oublié.