| It was a memorable homecoming for “Canada’s Sweetheart.” Barbara Ann Scott, a native of Ottawa and the 1948 Olympic Champion in ladies figure skating, was honoured by the City of Ottawa at a special ceremony at Ottawa City Hall on May 14. At the ceremony, Ottawa city councillor Georges Bédard announced that Friday, May 14, 2004 will be declared Barbara Ann Scott Day in the City of Ottawa. Scott, who returned to her hometown to participate in the festivities surrounding the 100th anniversary of her former training base, the Minto Skating Club, as well as the opening ceremonies of the 2004 Canadian Tulip Festival, was honoured by the recognition. “I am absolutely overcome,” said Scott. “To be back in my hometown and to be remembered after so many years is overwhelming. Everyone has made us feel so welcome.” Scott was accompanied at the ceremony by her husband, Tom King. Councillor Bédard presented Scott with a photo of her arrival at the Ottawa train station in 1947. She was also presented with a special birdhouse that featured a roof that was made from the copper which sat atop the Chateau Laurier hotel in 1948. “Barbara Ann Scott has set the highest standard for all Canadian figure skaters,” said Bédard. Scott was awarded the Lou Marsh Trophy as Canada’s top athlete of the year in 1945, 1947 and 1948, and she was inducted into Canada’s Olympic Hall of Fame in 1948, Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame in 1955 and the Skate Canada Hall of Fame in 1991. In addition, she became an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1991. Scott was thrilled to be back in Ottawa to attend the festivities at the Minto Skating Club and the Tulip Festival. “The Minto Skating Club is very near and dear to my heart,” said Scott. “I thank you for making this such a special day not only for me but for the Minto Skating Club as well.”
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