Harper Government Supports the 2012 Skate Canada International Grand Prix of Figure Skating

WINDSOR, ON, Oct. 26, 2012 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development and Regional Minister Responsible for South-Western Ontario, today announced the Government of Canada's contribution to Skate Canada to host the 2012 Skate Canada International Grand Prix of Figure Skating. The event is being held from October 26 to 28, 2012, in Windsor, Ontario.

"The Government of Canada, through Sport Canada's Hosting Program, is proud to provide support to Skate Canada to host this prestigious event," said Minister of State Gosal. "Events like the 2012 Skate Canada International Grand Prix of Figure Skating provide our athletes with the chance to perfect their skills while competing on home soil. I wish all of our incredible Canadian competitors the very best in their pursuit of excellence."

"Hosting international sport events like this one offers an opportunity for our athletes to compete against some of the best in the world while bringing a welcome boost to the local economy," said Minister Finley. "Our athletes serve as outstanding role models, particularly for our young people, and their accomplishments are an inspiration to Canadians of all ages. Good luck to all the athletes."

"We truly appreciate the continued support of the Government of Canada for our events and programs. It is a key factor in the success of our sport," said Cheryl McEvoy, Chief Operating Officer, Skate Canada. "This funding enables us to stage an international event here in Canada, providing that home field advantage to our athletes in a Canadian setting."

Skate Canada has been teaching Canadians to skate for 125 years. As the national sport governing body, it develops programming for coaches and officials and is responsible for skater development from the local club to world and Olympic champions.

The Government of Canada is the single largest contributor to sport in Canada and supports participation and excellence from playground to podium. Funding of $50,000 has been provided for this event through Sport Canada's Hosting Program. Sport Canada's Sport Support Program has approved almost $2 million to Skate Canada in fiscal year 2012-2013. In 2011-2012, almost $520,000 was provided through the Athlete Assistance Program to support 45 athletes with living and training expenses.

 

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage

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.)