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Above: Olympian Karen Cockburn demonstrates to the Yorkfest crowd why she won a silver medal at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games
York University student and Olympian Karen Cockburn launched Yorkfest in style Tuesday with a demonstration of her trampoline aerobatics before a huge crowd of students, staff and faculty on the Harry W. Arthurs Common.
The silver medallist from the Athens Summer Games and second-year economics student told the audience how much she appreciated their support as she pursues her degree at York and prepares for the Beijing Games in 2008.
To the delight of the crowd gathered for the Yorkfest celebration, Cockburn, 23, demonstrated her expertise in gymnastic trampoline along with first-year kinesiology student Matthew Eldridge. Both are members of the Skyriders Trampoline Club.
Right: Lorna R. Marsden congratulates Olympian Karen Cockburn
Following the demonstration, York University President and Vice-Chancellor Lorna R. Marsden presented Cockburn with a York jacket, flowers and heartfelt congratulations on behalf of the York community.
"All of York University watched as you performed so wonderfully in Athens," Marsden said. "We are all thrilled and proud at your achievement."
Cockburn shared the stage with Eldridge, national team coach David Ross and another York member of the Canadian Olympic Team, chief therapist Cindy Hughes, who is manager and head therapist with York's Sports Therapy Clinic. Following the presentation, Cockburn was mobbed by admirers looking for an autograph and by the media on hand to cover her appearance.
Above: Following her trampoline demonstration, Cockburn was surrounded by admirers and the media
The day’s events saw thousands of students enjoy perfect weather as they toured more than 75 display booths featuring student clubs, campus services and event sponsors. The day’s activities included a beer garden and DJ music on the Patio by DJ Jedi.
Now in its 10th year, YorkFest is the largest one-day event held annually at York University. The goal of the festival is to provide exposure to new and experienced musical talent, while allowing clubs and services to share information with the York community.
Left: Clubs and services at York shared their information with students during Yorkfest
This year’s event was the biggest ever with a diverse range of musical acts performing on a state-of-the-art stage. Featured performers included Matthew Good, Buck 65, Stabilo, Pop Joy, The Cheap Suits, The Mark Inside, and Porter.