C.B.S. gears up to host N.L. Summer Games with torch relay

While the Summer Olympics get underway in Rio, the town of Conception Bay South is focusing on another sporting event that's taking place closer to home.

Every 20 years or so, they like to dust us off.- Rex Hillier, former competitor

The Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games begin next week in C.B.S. and on Saturday, the town prepared by hosting the competition's opening torch relay.

According to organizer Terry French, 46 local athletes participated in the relay, and many more will come to town when the games officially kick off.

"It's our Olympics," French told CBC News. 

"We're excited and looking forward to the 1,500 athletes coming from across the province."

Two of the people participating in the torch relay were on site the last time Conception Bay South hosted the games in 1996.

Former C.B.S. athletes of the year Rex Hillier and Valerie Haines-Dalton lit the ceremonial cauldron two decades ago.

On Saturday, they were the first to pass the torch in the relay. 

"Every 20 years or so, they like to dust us off," joked Hillier.

The two athletes, who have known each other since high school, said they're looking forward to seeing a new generation of athletes compete at the event.

"We have so many memories — and hopefully they'll be able to take away special memories as well," said Dalton.