Passion and spirit lifts Vancouver games

The Vancouver Winter Olympics, marred by early tragedy but destined ultimately to be remembered as a Games embraced by its hosts like few before them, drew to a close amid an unprecedented, country-wide party last night.

Basking in the golden glow of an ice hockey triumph they would have swapped for any of the 13 other golds they claimed at these Olympics, Canadians thronged the stadiums and streets with celebration.