Pets of Vancouver 2010 Review
The 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics and Paralympics is the time for Canada to showcase its exceptional athletic achievements. Spectacular cultural performances show the world that Canada is an immensely diverse community full of talented people.
Mascots have become important and popular representatives of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. They bring warmth, fun and excitement to games. Tourists from all over the world delight in the antics of these adorable pets.
Each host country and region designs their mascots to represent the culture and ideals of that country. The mascots are usually the narrators of the games and symbolize the values of the athletes. The host province for the 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics is British Columbia, but contributing provinces and territories include Ontario, Newfoundland and Labrador, Manitoba, and the Yukon. The four host First Nations include: Lil’wat First Nation, Musqueam First Nation, Squamish First Nation and Tsleil-Waututh First Nation.
The role of the mascot has made significant advances. Imagination and creativity are poured into the designs of the mascots, resulting in a tremendous line of collectibles, toys, and other pet paraphernalia. Canada and the province of British Columbia have continued the tradition of creating mascots that exude Olympic pride, celebration, diversity, inspiration and spirit.
Mascots of Vancouver 2010
1. Miga is a snowboarding fur seal inspired by the legends of the First Nations of the Pacific Northwest. Miga is part fur seal and part killer whale and has been described as mischievous and outgoing. Snowboarding is Miga’s favorite winter sport. She is a young sea bear who lives in the ocean with her family pod, off Vancouver Island near Tofino, British Columbia. Miga is part of the Kermode bear, a rare white bear that only lives in British Columbia. The Kermode bear is a rare white or cream-colored subspecies of black bear found along the central west coast of British Columbia. According to First Nations legend, the Kermode bears were bleached by Raven to remind people of the Ice Age. Orcas are revered by West Coast First Nations as travelers and guardians of the sea.
2. Quatchi is a young Sasquatch who hails from the deep Canadian forests. The Sasquatch is a well-known character in local Pacific West Coast native legends. Quatchi enjoys exploring new places and making new friends. Quatchi is a shy and friendly Sasquatch. He has a long brown beard and blue ear muffs. The large size of him makes him a bit uncoordinated. Quatchi’s favorite sport is hockey and his dream is to become a famous goalkeeper. He is eager and understands that hard work is a key component to making your dreams come true.
3. Sumi is a spirit animal that lives in the mountains of British Columbia. Sumi’s name comes from the Salish word Sumesh which means guardian spirit. He has Thunderbird wings that allow him to fly and the furry paws of a bear. The bear often represents strength and friendship. Sumi is a leader dedicated to protecting and conserving our water, land, and the creatures that make it her home. Sumi loves all the sports of the Paralympic Games.
4. Mukmuk is a small and sociable groundhog from Vancouver Island. Mukmuk gets its name from the word ‘muckamuck’, which means ‘food’ in Chinook. Mukmuk loves to eat and cheer on athletes during races and games. His favorite foods are berries and mountain flowers. He is an honorary member of the mascot team.
These sweet and cuddly mystical creatures symbolize the strength and transformation of athletes while showcasing First Nations culture. Audiences will find the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games mascots entertaining, educational and memorable.