Nicknamed the Sea to Sky Games, the 2010 Winter Olympics will be hosted by Canada next month. Prepare to be transported, at least in your mind’s eye, to the spectacular settings of coastal Vancouver and mountainous Whistler, British Columbia.
  Look for the athletes with red maple leafs on their uniforms to exult in their love of all things winter and enjoy the usual home-snow advantage as they go after a record medal haul.
  The other dominant North American team, the United States, will feel comfortable being back on the continent eight years after the Salt Lake City Games. Germany will attempt to lead the medal count for the third consecutive time.
  Vancouver is the most populous city (2.2 million in the metro area) to hold a Winter Games, and the warmest (average February temperature is 40.6 degrees). It also will be the first to hold indoor opening and closing ceremonies, at BC Place Stadium, although there still are questions about ventilation for the flame that will burn for 16 days. ...

Discussion Questions

- Why might the 2010 Winter Olympics be nicknamed the Sea to Sky Games?
- Which of the winter games would you be most likely to watch on television? Why?
- What features of the Oval contribute to its acclaim? Why are these features important?

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