CALGARY, Jan. 19, 2013 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), Rob Anders, Member of Parliament (Calgary West), today announced the Government of Canada's contribution to Speed Skating Canada in support of the Essent ISU World Cup of Speed Skating in Calgary, Alberta. The event is being held on January 19 and 20, 2013.
"Canadian speed skaters have a rich history of international success and are consistently on the podium at World Cup events," said Minister of State Gosal. "Our Government is proud to continue to support our athletes and to provide them with opportunities to race against other top skaters right here at home."
"Once again our community is excited to be hosting a competition at our Calgary 88 Olympic legacy facility," said Mr. Anders. "Our local businesses will benefit from the economic boost associated with the Essent ISU World Cup of Speed Skating, as we again showcase our region and our world-class sports facilities to the world."
Speed Skating Canada is the national governing body responsible for the advancement and growth of speed skating in Canada. Its core purpose is to support high performance excellence at the international level and to provide leadership in developmental programs. With 150 skating clubs in 13 provinces and territories, it is dedicated to providing skating programs for every skill level in Canada.
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 $175,000 was provided to Speed Skating Canada through Sport Canada's Hosting Program for this event. The Government of Canada has also committed approximately $4.2 million to Speed Skating Canada for 2012-2013 through the Sport Support Program. In 2011-2012, approximately $1.24 million was provided through the Athlete Assistance Program to support 115 athletes with living and training expenses.
SOURCE: Canadian Heritage
For more information (media only), please contact:
Dustin van Vugt
Chief of Staff
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.)
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