China can depend on us - Canadian Olympic Committee

Canadian Olympic Committee vows our athletes will be there when Games open in Beijing in Edmonton Journal.

I'm very happy that the Canadian Olympic Committee has come out strongly in favor of the games in Beijing.

The Olympic Torch is a lightning rod for activism as it goes on its international tour. Instead of being a time to celebrate the athletes and the ideals of the Olympics, it becomes beacon to gain instant international attention. A flame of infamy.

I'm not saying don't protest. March, parade and chant peacefully. You have a right to your expression. But, there needs to be a degree of respect for not only the athletes but also the thousands of people who are working hard to make the games a success. I personally know a few people in Beijing who are working hard, being trained, to be the world's hosts in August.

I also remember the 1980's games. A friend of mine was selected for the Olympic Boxing Team after winning the gold in the 1978 Commonwealth Games and bronze in the 1979 Acropolis Cup in Greece. Not getting to go to Russia in 1980 had a huge impact on my friend as well as on many many other athletes.