Melissa Bishop may not have won a medal at the Olympics in Rio, but she is still our Golden Olympian. As the sign at 17 West in Cobden says… We Believe! — and we always will.
“I was blown away by the feedback that we received about Melissa after our sign went up,” said Patty Borutski of 17 West in Cobden.
“Being on the trans Canada Highway we typically see people from all over our country, especially in summer. This summer they were asking when does she race, where is she from.
“We were giving out all kinds of info about her. People were so excited to know that she was from the Ottawa Valley area,” she continued.
“We even had kids of all ages having their pictures taken with the sign, she is so inspiring to all, especially the young girls who would love to be just like her.”
Ms. Borutski continued, “We really want Melissa to know that she made every Canadian so proud, with the amazing race that she ran. Her grit and determination was palpable, she truly gave us a gold medal performance.
“Initially we all cried and were heartbroken for her, but you know, that quickly turned into overwhelming pride after seeing the interview that she gave to CBC, that showed what a class act that Melissa truly is. I think that is the true measure of her strength and character.”
Concluding, Ms. Boruski stated, “Whatever Melissa decides to do next, I think she will always have a place in the hearts of all Canadians who will be there to cheer her on, in life or on the track. Amazing job Melissa!”
We thank Tara Yourth of Beachburg for creating this beautiful medallion for Melissa. In an interview on CBC right after her very close loss, Melissa said, “It’s really kind of hard to describe this right now. This is what we work for for a decade and to be that close…this is tough.” Melissa missed getting onto the podium by 13-100ths of a second. Melissa, we will cheer you on throughout the next four years as you compete in various events…and yes, cheering you on in Tokyo, Japan as you compete in the 2020 Olympics. A Homecoming Parade in Melissa’s honour will be held in Eganville on Saturday, Sept. 10 starting at 1:30 p.m.
