It’s a 50th birthday gift to himself he will not soon forget — being caught up in the excitement of the 2026 Winter Olympics held in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo with two good friends.
Huntsville resident and Councillor Scott Morrison recently turned 50 and decided to make the trek as a gift to himself. He was joined by close friends Conor McCotter from Halifax and Parry Sound—Muskoka MP Scott Aitchison.
Doppler contacted Morrison during their last two nights spent in Milan (they arrived on February 13 and were scheduled to return on February 19).
Morrison said being among the athletes and spectators from all over the world was an epic experience. “Especially being able to witness Megan’s gold medal live. Coolest thing I’ve ever seen,” said Morrison, referring to Megan Oldham, 24, of Parry Sound, who won a gold medal for Canada in women’s big air.
“From witnessing the frequent expressions of affection for Canada and Canadians from people from all over the world, to witnessing Megan Oldham from Parry Sound win a gold medal, being at the Olympics has been an incredible experience,” said Aitchison.
Other highlights, other than the games themselves, included being approached by a group of Ukrainian people. “They were ahead of us in line for something, and when they saw our jerseys, engaged us. They were almost emotional in the way that they were thanking us for always having their backs. They said that they will never forget the support that they’ve gotten from our country,” said Morrison. “They described what they are going through back home, and it’s the first time that I have truly seen the human toll of war.”
Morrison said the Ukrainians wanted to take a photo with them and their Canadian jerseys, and then people from Switzerland joined in. “It made me realize that when you strip away borders, politics, etc., we are all just people wanting a decent and fair existence.”
For anyone who has ever thought about going to the Olympics, Morrison says it might be cheaper than you think. “We waited for a really good deal on the flights, and we’re trying to attend events that aren’t crazy expensive,” he noted, adding that a slice of pizza and a gelato are reasonable. “You truly don’t have to break the bank. Other than the flights, everything else is pretty reasonable. And the most amazing part of the experience is the cheapest. It is walking around, meeting amazing people, and experiencing the Olympic spirit,” he said via text.
The Olympic adventure ends today for the trio, who are on their way back to Canada.
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Glad to reminisce about Huntsville folks having the Olympic experience. Amazing memories of 12 years ago as Dara from Muskoka won gold. It is incredible to think of 2 girls from Muslooa/ Party Sound. (with no mountains ) have Gold medals on Slopestyle. Nice to see so many Canadians in Milian and family and friends allowed to hug and cheer their family.
The photos are epic!
Scott (Morrison) will never forget his 50th birthday. How wonderful to be able to celebrate it with some of his closest friends. And hopefully, it will wash away some of the dread at hitting the big Five-Oh! ! lol