Olympic torch hits Burnie

Friday evening at 6 pm Dr. Peter van Vollenhof has officially opened the Special Olympics National Games at FBK Stadium in Hengelo. The party kicks off a fun-filled weekend of sports for over 2,300 athletes from all over the country, but also from Saba and Bonaire. The Olympic Games are held in all 14 municipalities of Twente; Handball is played in Borne (at ‘t Wooldrik). The Olympic flame did hit Bourne on Wednesday afternoon. so called Turn on the torch To Het Dijkhuis, where a large population was already active with many sports.

Turn on the torch

The Turn on the torch It is a phenomenon that came from America and is run by police and firefighters who work as “flame guards” to bring the “Flame of Hope” to the opening ceremony. So also in 2022, where – preceded by sirens – they visit various healthcare facilities in our area to draw attention to the special sporting event. And so it was Het Diggis’ turn on Wednesday afternoon. As the flames approach 3.20pm, Jan Gillians (the head of BLOS in the municipality) and a group of De Ster customers with a custom-made sign are anxiously waiting.

Once in, the whole group proceeds to the lobby where a large group of residents have already done sporting progress for the upcoming weekend busy throwing the rink, playing table tennis, stacking blocks, etc. As soon as the torch with scattered flames appeared on the stage, a large round of applause rose. Jan Gillians says in a few words that he is very proud that on Saturday and Sunday over 100 handball players will be competing for medals at ‘t Wooldrik’ in Bourne. Then it goes out again where the fire pit is ready to “receive” the flame. Moments later, it’s time, after which you hear another applause.

a program

Also tomorrow and Friday Turn on the torch still in our area. For example, tomorrow, Thursday, the visit to De Kloosterhof will continue at Stationsstraat. They hope to get there around 9:30 in the morning. And after the official opening on Friday, it all really starts on Saturday. Program with playing cities, times, sports and more basic information over here for download. (AJ/BM)