I’ve heard it said that it isn’t every day that one goes to provincials.
Happily, this week I got to talk to two people who managed the feat and I have the pleasure of sharing their stories.
True, not everyone’s venture into the realm of provincial tournaments is successful but that’s beside the point.
The fact is, they went and anyone who gets there ought to be proud of that.
I’ve never been to a provincial championship or anything close to zones.
In my youth, I did play competitive softball and soccer but I never went to any tournament.
No, about the only thing that comes close in my limited athletic experience is a karate tournament in which I earned silver by participating in kumite.
Kumite is sparring, so in other words, I got a medal for a mock-fight.
Life is funny some times.
Anyway, my point is that when you compete at a certain level, it shouldn’t really matter whether you win or lose.
You’ve made it that far and that's something not too many people can boast about.
That being said, I know this society praises its winners and gives participation medals to the rest.
Irregardless, kudos are in order for two of our fellow B-towners — Mira Agnew and Brenna Bourgeois, both of whom participated in provincial level events.
While 15 students from BCHS competed at the Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association-hosted badminton provincial tournament May 4 to 5, none medaled at the event.
For Mira, playing opponents two grades above yourself is definitely out of one’s comfort zone and to come away from the experience with more confidence is certainly inspiring, at least in my opinion.
And for Brenna, being named the Alberta Provincial Champion in Highland Dancing and one of three dancers chosen to represent Alberta at the upcoming ScotDance Canada Championship Series in Calgary is equally impressive.
Like Melissa Lolthoz, both girls may, depending on the route life takes them, unknowingly become the role models of those younger than themselves.
Honestly kids, no pressure.
Congratulations to both of you and to all those others who competed alongside you.
Keep up the good work.
