US vs Canada (and the rest of the world) on the Speed Skating Oval today

I know it's highly unlikely anyone outside of Canada will be cheering for anyone but Shani Davis today, that is except for us Canadians, but there are a few of us on the site.

With one of the US's most recognizable athletes in the competition, and the favorite in the event as well, all eyes will be on Shani.  The Canadian athletes, however, will be going for gold.

One of the Canadians in the competition is Denny Morrison and he is from Fort St. John, British Columbia.  That's right, my little corner of the world. Again.

Cody Hay was the subject of an earlier article about home town spirit, and he and his partner, Annabelle Langlois did well at the Olympics.  They didn't win gold, or even silver or bronze, but they made Canadians proud.

Denny will be the next athlete from my area to show his skills, and although Jeremy Wotherspoon is probably the most well known Canadian Speed Skater, Denny has a huge number of fans in our area.  In fact, the local theatre will be open today, with the even being shown live on the screen, and a crew from CTV will be filming fans' reactions. 

Denny has  good chance of a medal in the event.  Although he is ranked sixth in the World Cup circuit this season,  he tied the World record in the 1000 meters in 2008 before Shani broke the record in March of 2009.  Denny has trained alongside Shani and knows his moves.  Also there is a contingent of family and friends expected to be onhand to cheer Denny on, in person, in the Richmond oval.  Add to that the fact that a replacement Zamboni has been brought in from Calgary to, hopefully, solve the ice issues, and this could be the competition to watch today.

Oh, and Go CANADA!