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Ashleigh McIvor celebrates Olympic gold in Whistler

Olympic, Paralympic athletes recognized by the province
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To keep the sheen bright on last year's gold medal winter, the provincial government is honouring athletes who medaled in the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games with their own recognition day.

Kicking off the achievement days was Whistler's Maƫlle Ricker, who took a gold medal in women's snowboard cross on Feb. 16 - the same day that will forever bear her name. She was the first Canadian woman to win an Olympic gold medal in an Olympic Games hosted in Canada. Other local gold medal winner - ski cross athlete Ashleigh McIvor - is being honoured with a day on the anniversary of her win, February 23.

Yesterday to celebrate McIvor enjoyed dinner at the Bearfoot Bistro and sabered some champagne to enjoy with friends and family.

"These Olympic and Paralympic athletes have made special contributions to our province and country by helping to bring us together as British Columbians and Canadians," said Steven L. Point, lieutenant governor of B.C.

"It is fitting that we recognize them on the one year anniversary of their medal-winning performances."

Not to ignore the turquoise wearing masses whose volunteer efforts helped pull the Olympic Winter Games together, the province has also set aside March 21 as "Olympic and Paralympic Blue Jacket Volunteer Day."

"Our Olympians and Paralympians have left us with lifelong memories and helped to inspire our youth to pursue their dreams," said deputy premier and minister of finance Colin Hansen.

"Proclaiming days to recognize their achievements is just one way we can show our appreciation for the contributions they have made to British Columbia."

Ricker recently won another gold, this time at the Legendary Banked Slalom race at Mount Baker, WA where she took the pro women's title for the fifth consecutive year.