While the Pan Am Games, the largest sporting event ever held in Ontario, loudly and proudly proclaimed its success, behind the scenes a transported local workforce worked diligently and efficiently to ensure that athletes, media and officials were transported where they needed to go – safely, on time, and in comfort.
Voyageur Transportation Services was fortunate to have been awarded one of a select few transportation contracts issued by the TO2015 Games. At the event of the summer, more than 85 drivers and supervisory staff helped ensure that no matter what, the transportation for the Games went flawlessly.
“It’s a once in a lifetime experience,” said on-site supervisor John Giannone. “We effectively transported thousands of athletes, officials/workforce and media through closely aligning ourselves with the TO2015 group and overcame obstacles and challenges as they surfaced. The drivers really made it happen. They pulled together and drove this thing, pardon the pun, to the success that it became.”
Local London drivers (as well as those from Kitchener/Waterloo and Ottawa) took up the challenge and, in the end, had stories to share that will last a lifetime.
“The singing, the dancing, the camaraderie amongst the athletes and all the event staff was amazing to see,” said Ginette Bourgon, a driver during the Parapan Am Games. “I had a great time learning about different cultures and even made some new friends!”
“One day, you’re shuttling athletes from the airport to the athletes’ village in Toronto, and the next you’re basically in cottage country transporting the media to various events,” said Brent Kitson, who drove for both Games. “You definitely needed to be on your toes and adaptable.”
The drivers and on-site staff consistently found ways to come together as a team and make a lasting impression. Certainly, that positions Voyageur well for taking part in future events of this magnitude.
“I would definitely do it again if given the opportunity,” driver Sean Narbonne said. “The way we all pulled together for one cause and supported each other was really a positive environment to be in. It was something special, and I was proud and honoured to be a part of it.”
We are proud of all of our drivers – thank you, and congratulations on a job well done!
Submitted by: Voyageur Transportation Services
