Day 1Japan Arrival The day that everyone was waiting for has finally arrived. Competitors, experts and observers are now in Japanfor this great adventure that will be WorldSkills Shizuoka 2007. After a 14 hour flight, it took another 2 to 3 hours before everyone was able to get to their hotels.
Day 2 Today was a busy day for our competitors. First, they went to the activity called “one school, one country”. Every Country was paired to an elementary school from the region. Therefore, Team Canada went to “ OhokaElementary School” where they were greeted like celebrities by hundreds of kids that were waiting for this moment for weeks. These students had written letters of support to each competitor who were, at the time, training for the competition. Later that night, the welcome reception took place. Competitors, experts and observers had the opportunity to meet the competitors from other countries.
Day 3Familiarization day Today the competitors had the chance to get familiarize with their contest areas and unpack their tool boxes. It was the first time they could really go around the competition site. Day 4Opening Ceremony The competitions are now officially launched. Every country made their way through a crowd of spectators who came to encourage them from all over the world. This was followed by speeches such as one from the Crown Prince of Japan. The ceremony was even more special because a member of Team Canada, Nathan Banke, was chosen to be part of the oath taking. One thing is certain; you could feel the energy in the room. Our Canadians are finally ready! Day 5 Today was the first day of competition. The venue was full of students who came to see the competitors perform their respective trade. Also, there were a lot of Japanese students who came to visit the Canada House. No need to say that the maple syrup was very popular.
Day 6 The second competition day went well. Once again, there were a lot Japanese students who came to visit the venue. The highlight of the day was the visit of the Crown Prince of Japan.
Day 7 Today was the third day of competition. Unlike the other days, there were a lot of families on the site who came to visit the venue. Team Canadacontinues to do a great job. One last push, there is only one day left. Day 8 The last day of competition was marked by a record crowd at the competition site. All observers agree that the caliber of the competitors has increased since the last international competition. In several disciplines, there are hopes, only a few days before the closing ceremony. That evening, observers had the opportunity to visit the competitors at their hotel. Coaches and parents were given the chance to celebrate the end of the competitions with the members of Team Canada. Day 11Closing Ceremony Today was a day of celebration for our Canadians. The 39th WorldSkills Competition was our best performance ever. Overall, we won 6 medals:
