Olympic News: VANOC announces motto for 2010 Games

The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) announced yesterday the official motto for the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. Looking to our nation's anthem for inspiration the English motto which will represent the games is “With Glowing Hearts”, drawn, of course, from the first verse of “O Canada”. The French motto will also draw from the first verse of our anthem. “Des Plus Brilliant Exploits” (translating to “of the most brilliant exploits” come from the first (and original lyrics) to "O Canada", the music for which was composed by Calixa Lavallée, a composer and music teacher, in 1880.

“The mottos describe the pride that results from outstanding achievement; be it an athlete’s performance of a lifetime or the valuable contribution of a dedicated volunteer,” said John Furlong, VANOC Chief Executive Officer of the decision. “There’s a champion in everybody and the mottos invite everyone to step up to their own podium and give their very best through the once-in-a-lifetime experience of the 2010 Winter Games.”

Recent mottos include:

• Beijing 2008: "One World One Dream"
• Torino 2006: "Passion Lives Here"
• Athens 2004: "Welcome Home"
• Salt Lake City 2002: "Light the Fire Within"

Along with this announcement, VANOC has also launched a national public service announcement, sharing the motto with Canadians and the world. The one-minute spot features Canadians from all walks of life and all regions of the country. The PSA will be broadcast on television stations and at movie theatres across Canada. (See the PSA here). Keen-eared listeners will recognize the backing music for the PSA as the 2002 single “Pounding” by UK band Doves.

Related: The history of Canada's national anthem