By Cindy Chant

cindy@peicanada.com

Emily Gray may have been in the spotlight recently since returning from the Winter Youth Olympics, held in Austria, but she is also the first to admit she is finally enjoying some down time.

“I have participated in a mutli sport event before so I knew the schedules would be hectic, but the cultural side of the trip was the biggest challenge,” said the Milburn curler.  

“It’s not like going to Halifax...you’re going to another country.” 

At several of the security check points Ms Gray had to go through during her participation in the Youth Olympics she set off alarms - forcing security to do a more thorough check.

“I always carried small Canada flag pins in my pockets..the guards were lining up just to get one,” said Ms Gray, who chuckled to think how much of a hit she was at all the check point locations over a five cent pin.

Since her return to the Island on Jan 25 Ms Gray has been recovering from a head cold, which left her without a voice for the O’Leary welcome back ceremony. The event held Jan 26 saw a gathering of as many as 200 supporters and junior curlers hoping to sneak a peek of the bronze medal her Olympic team won.

“Between yawning and coughing I wasn’t sure if I could talk to anyone,” said Ms Gray, who went on to explain how important it was to show her appreciation for the support she received from her home town.

“I tried to talk to every single person and show them the medal.”

Although the competitive season is now over important life changing decisions are on the horizon for the eager 17-year-old. Ms Gray is preparing to graduate from Westisle Composite High School in June and hopes to attend UPEI to pursue studies in kinesiology. 

“Before graduating from UPEI I will have to make the decision whether I will stay here on the Island or go out West, either for work or for the sport,” said Ms Gray. “If I want to make curling my career I will have to decide.”

After Ms Gray’s 12-year curling career, she has had several memorable events to look back on, including winning many provincial titles and attending the Canada Games in 2011.

“We could have easily qualified for the medal rounds, but hey, things happen. We were all just happy we were able to have the experience,” said Ms Gray.

Although curling can be an expensive sport, national funding has made it possible for Ms Gray to travel to several curling events throughout the season.

“The last couple of years our families have traveled throughout the Maritimes just to watch us play,” said Ms Gray, who is grateful for her family’s support.

Even though Ms Gray will soon turn 18 (March 1), she hopes to be an inspiration to young people who are interested in curling.

“I am still a kid...look at all the accomplishments I have.... anyone can do the same.”