The flame was lit by five-time Paralympian and Host Society Board Member, Katarina Roxon, alongside Team Newfoundland and Labrador’s 17-year-old tennis player Declan Walsh, who won the inaugural Pat Lechelt True Sport Award at the 2022 Niagara Canada Games.

“This was an incredible day to officially kick off the torch relay, celebrate the power of sport, and showcase the rich cultures and communities across Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Kim Keating and Karl Smith, Co-Chairs of the 2025 Canada Games Host Society. “Over the next month, we invite Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to join us at the 15 celebration stops and be part of this historic journey.”

As a Journey Supporter, Marine Atlantic will carry the Roly McLenahan Torch from North Sydney, Nova Scotia, to Port Aux Basques, Newfoundland, via ferry. The Orangestore 2025 Canada Games Torch Relay will then stop in 15 communities across Newfoundland and Labrador, engaging local residents through a series of events and community celebrations. In total, over 130 torchbearers will carry the torch in their respective communities before the lighting of the cauldron at the opening ceremony on August 9.

“Lighting the torch today kicks off a cross-country journey that brings us one step closer to the St. John’s 2025 Canada Games, our nation’s biggest and most inclusive multi-sport event,” said the Honourable Adam van Koeverden, Secretary of State (Sport). “It’s a powerful reminder of what sport is all about: dedication, teamwork and community. From athletes to coaches, officials, volunteers and families, this flame honours all of you. As it travels from coast to coast to coast, let’s celebrate what unites us and cheer on the next generation of Canadian champions.”

“The torch relay marks the start of an incredible journey - one that celebrates sport, unity, and community across Canada. As the host province, Newfoundland and Labrador is proud to be part of this moment, joining homegrown athletes Katarina Roxon and Declan Walsh to ignite a symbol of excellence and perseverance. The Canada Games are more than a competition - they are a lasting legacy of inspiration, and we are honoured to carry that flame forward,” said Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation.

“As the Mayor of St. John's, I cannot wait to see our city come alive with the spirit of sport and community as we host the 2025 Canada Games. This torch relay symbolizes the unity and determination that defines who are as Canadians,” said Danny Breen, Mayor of the City of St. John’s. To every torchbearer, sponsor, and organizer: thank you for bringing this symbol of unity to life. And to our athletes, your dedication and determination inspire us all—we can’t wait to cheer you on as you light up our city. Let the journey begin!”

“Today’s lighting of the Roly McLenahan torch at the Centennial Flame is symbolic of how the Canada Games spark greatness in the next generation of athletes and leaders,” said Canada Games Board Chair Catriona Le May Doan. “This is an exciting milestone on the road to the 2025 Canada Games and the torch relay will unite people and communities as we journey together towards St. John’s in August.”

“At Orangestore and North Sun Energy, we’re proud to support the 2025 Canada Games and honoured to see the torch lit at the heart of our nation,” said David Button, President of North Sun Energy. “This flame reflects the spirit of communities across Newfoundland and Labrador, and we’re excited to welcome the Orangestore Torch Relay to many of our gas and convenience store locations as we journey together toward St. John’s.”

For images and videos of the torch lighting ceremony and its torch relay events, please visit the 2025 Canada Games photo gallery.

To learn more about the Orangestore 2025 Canada Games Torch Relay route and community celebrations, visit 2025canadagames.ca/torchrelay.