Morning of 12 February 2010. Only several hours left before the Opening Ceremony of the Vancouver Winter Olympic Games. The world is waiting for the grand event when almost all mass media sources cover news on the tragedy which took place at Whistler sliding center during training. Small delegation of Georgia is shocked with the news spread by media sources on crash of 21-year-old Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili. "The IOC is in deep mourning,'' says President Jacques Rogge, who wiped his eyes and appeared choked up before speaking. This horrible tragedy has overshadowed the Opening Ceremony. Nodar's teammates marched somberly into BC Place Stadium for the opening ceremony wearing black armbands and scarves, behind a flag draped with a black ribbon, as spectators, Olympic officials and competitors stood and saluted them with applause. Later, there was a moment of silence for Nodar.

Soon after this tragedy it was decided to construct in Nodar's memory luge track in his home town of Bakuriani. The IOC and International Luge Federation has immediately backed this decision sending foreign experts to Georgia and making specific arrangements and this is one of the core issues of the agenda at the Georgian NOC. NOC Vice President Mamuka Khabareli who is coordinating this project says that discussions are now in the final stage to start implementation of the project. It is joint commitment of the IOC, FIL, NOC and Georgian Ministry of Sport and Youth Affairs to realize this significant project. Subject to recommendations of the qualified experts the plastic luge track will be 420 meters long and the track will provide Georgian athletes with excellent opportunity to practice in luge during winter and summer period. In collaboration with the International Luge Federation Nodar Kumaritashvili annual tournaments will be organized in his home town. After clear identification of the responsibilities and duties signing officially Memorandum of Understanding effective implementation of the plan will commence with active participation of all the parties involved. Luge track in Bakuriani will eternally honor the memory of Nodar and promote further development of this sport in the country.