Officer of the Order of Canada

• Awarded on: May 6, 2010
• Invested on: September 16, 2011

John Furlong's commitment and passion have inspired Canadians to demonstrate our true spirit and sporting excellence to the world. As chief executive officer of the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, he successfully led one of the world's largest sporting events. Throughout the 10 years of planning and preparations leading up to the Games, and during its six-week run, he helped to create a vision of Canada as a diverse and energetic northern country. Our Olympic success was due in large part to his role in nurturing partnerships, particularly with the Four Host First Nations, ensuring they benefited from economic opportunities linked to the Games. As well, he spent many years building grassroots support for the development of British Columbia's and Canada's athletes and coaches.