Statement from John Furlong on Accepting UBC's Re-Invitation to Speak at 2017 ZLC Millennium Scholarship Breakfast

VANCOUVER, Jan. 9, 2017 /CNW/ - John Furlong's comments on his acceptance of UBC's invitation to reinstate him as the keynote speaker at the 2017 ZLC Millennium Scholarship Breakfast are as follows:

"I consider participating in this event both a privilege and an honor. I'll do my very best to deliver an address worthy of this community celebration elevating student athletics and the power of sport.

I'm deeply grateful to the countless Canadians who overwhelmed my family and I with heartfelt support during these past two weeks. It's been very humbling and helped immensely in keeping spirits up. As most everyone can understand, this has been a terribly difficult time for us, however adversity is a force in sports, in business and in life that can reveal uncommon strength and humanity. I respect and appreciate that President Ono and Board Chair Stuart Belkin have shown decisive leadership, making a wrong decision right. I trust we can leave this behind us now to focus on ensuring the event enjoys record attendance and financial success. 

UBC is a world leading university with a strong athletic tradition and an impeccable Olympic track record. These facts point to the importance of sport in university life and to character building. They elevate the school. UBC friends and alumni have for years been strong supporters of their university and I'm confident that their tradition of generous giving will again prevail. It matters that it does and I'm proud to play my part. "

A link to UBC's statement on this matter is at: http://news.ubc.ca/2017/01/09/ubc-reinstates-john-furlong-as-keynote-speaker/

SOURCE John Furlong

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