Scott Russell, who just finished hosting CBC Television's primetime coverage of the Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, will be in Prince George for the 2017 Fan the Flame Awards Banquet and Gala.
Russell, also a commentator on Hockey Night in Canada and an author, will be the keynote speaker at the gala, hosted by PacificSport Northern BC. The event will be held Feb. 9 at the Civic Centre.
"We are so excited to welcome Mr. Russell to Prince George," said Fan the Flame chairperson Allan Bristowe in a media release. "His outstanding coverage as host of CBC Sports' Olympic Primetime underscores both his passion for amateur sport in Canada and his understanding of the stories of our Canadian athletes.
"Attendees of the 2017 Fan the Flame Awards Banquet and Gala are in for a real treat."
Reservations for tickets are now being accepted and can be made via email ([email protected]).
Canadian Tire is the event sponsor.
This will be the second edition of Fan the Flame. The first was held this past February and saw Olympic champion speed skater Catriona Le May Doan give the keynote address.
The 2017 Fan the Flame Awards Banquet and Gala will celebrate athletic achievement and contribution to sport in the north for 2016.
Rising Star Awards will be handed out in recognition of "exceptional athletic achievement" by male and female athletes from northern B.C. As well, the 2015 Canada Winter Games Legacy Sport Difference Maker Awards, created last year, will honour coaches, officials and volunteers who have made a significant contribution to sport in the region.
The nomination period for the awards will open on Oct. 5.
