Harper Government Supports the 2012 ISF Women's World Fastpitch Championship

WHITEHORSE, July 13, 2012 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), Ryan Leef, Member of Parliament (Yukon), today announced the Government of Canada's contribution to Softball Canada in support of the 2012 ISF Women's World Fastpitch Championship. The event is being held from July 13 to 22 in Whitehorse.

"Our Government is pleased to provide opportunities for our athletes to compete against world-class competition on home soil," said Minister of State Gosal. "Hosting the 2012 ISF Women's World Fastpitch Championship provides yet another opportunity for our athletes to compete on the world stage and demonstrate that Canada is truly a leading sport nation."

""Welcoming this prestigious sporting event to Whitehorse is truly an honour," said Mr. Leef. "In addition to allowing Yukoners the chance to experience international competition in their own backyard, it also brings a welcome economic boost to our local community. I congratulate the organizers and volunteers for helping showcase Whitehorse to the world."

"We sincerely appreciate the support of the Government of Canada in hosting the 2012 Women's World Championships," said Kevin Quinn, President of Softball Canada. "We look forward to showing all of our international visitors some warm Yukon hospitality."

Softball Canada—in partnership with provincial/territorial and local associations—leads, promotes, invests in, and builds the sport of softball in this country.

The Government of Canada is the single largest contributor to sport in Canada and supports participation and excellence from playground to podium. A contribution of $50,000 was provided to Softball Canada through Sport Canada's Hosting Program. The Government of Canada also committed approximately $1.05 million to Softball Canada in 2011-2012 through the Sport Support Program.

All 66 games of the 16-nation tournament will be streamed on the Internet at www.sportscanada.tv.

For more information (media only), please contact:

Jenny Van Alstyne
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Bal Gosal, P.C., M.P.
Minister of State (Sport)
819-934-1122
[email protected]

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
[email protected]

(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)