"Six Nations well represented at Pan Am Torch Relay"

Sweltering temperatures couldn't keep the enthusiastic crowd away from Gage Park as they came out on Father's Day to witness some history in witnessing the official Pan Am Torch Relay.

Among those in attendance were man from Six Nations who made the trek to Hamilton in order to feel the strong pride of watching two of their own in professional lacrosse player Johnny Powless along with boxer Cher Obediah-Blasdell who back in October 2013 captured bronze at the National Amateur Boxing Championships which were held in Regina Saskatchewan carry the torch.

"It's just 200 meters but I'll probably be thinking just don't drop it," Obediah-Blasdell who had to make a small speech on the stage before running her 200 meters before hand-off said. "I'm really happy that both my mom and dad are here."

Obediah-Blasdell described herself as being in shock when after a Pan Am media launch in Six Nations she was contacted and presented with the proposal of being a torch barrier.

"At first it didn't set in," Obediah-Blasdell who won't be boxing at the Pan Am said. "Then as we got closer I started getting very excited."

Looking into the future this up and coming fighter who just recently graduated from Police Foundations and trains in Hamilton out of Steeltown Boxing would like to take another shot at Nationals.

"I finished third last year," Obediah-Blasdell said. In terms of what she will be working on before next spring's Nationals she replied "Straight punches and jabs."

Addressing the crowd who were hanging on every word Obediah-Blasdell said prior to lighting the torch and commencing on her 200 meter run she talked about the younger generation and the importance of being a role model.

"She loves kids and always has," Gail Obediah who is Cher's mom said. "She wants to help motivate and inspire the youth. We're so proud of her."

Meanwhile also participating was Powless who eagerly received the torch from McMaster water polo icon Nicola Colterjohn who proudly carried it to the band shell where to the applause of people he lit he lit the Pan Am cauldron.

"It was pretty sweet. Just an awesome." Powless who was also spending time playing and giving lacrosse tips to the kids said. "I wasn't sure how many would be here. It's nice to see so many people and to have family here."