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Whistler to host Opening Ceremony for the 2013 Luge World Championships

Parade and entertainment to start at Plaza Jan.30
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Photo by Mike Crane courtesy of Tourism Whistler

Whistler residents and visitors are invited to help kick off the 2013 FIL (International Luge Federation) Luge World Championships with competing athletes at the Opening Ceremony Celebration scheduled for Wednesday, January 30 at 7 p.m. in Village Square.

The Parade of Athletes starts in Whistler Olympic Plaza at 6:45 p.m. and makes its way to Village Square for the Opening Ceremony Celebration that begins at 7 p.m. From there, festivities will include local singer Rachel Thom singing the Canadian national anthem and a blessing from the Squamish First Nations Eagle Song Dancers. Whistler Mayor Nancy Wilhelm-Morden will also welcome international and Canadian athletes with opening remarks.

Wear your best red and white attire and cheer on the Canadian team as they prepare to go head-to-head against the world's best luge athletes. More than 150 athletes from 23 countries will be participating in men's and women's singles, doubles and team relay races on February 1 and 2 at the Whistler Sliding Centre.

The Opening Ceremony wraps up with a free concert by The Boom Booms, an exciting, energetic, indie band from Vancouver known for their mash-ups of pop, hip hop, reggae, soul and funk. With a reputation for energetic performances and incredible stage presence, The Boom Booms have built a loyal fan base that stretches across generations.

Residents and visitors can also volunteer in various positions at the FIL World Championships. For details on how to get involved go to www.luge.ca.

Tickets for the weekend events are just $10 with children six and under free. For the race schedule and ticket sales, visit whistler.com.

The Opening Ceremony event is part of the Festival, Events and Animations program, and is funded through the Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI). The FIL World Championships are produced by FIL and the Canadian Luge Association and hosted by the Whistler Sliding Centre.