Harper Government Supports the Essent ISU World Sprint Speed Skating Championships 2012

CALGARY, Jan. 28, 2012 /CNW/ - The Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), today announced the Government of Canada's contribution to the Essent ISU World Sprint Speed Skating Championships 2012.

"Canada's speed skating athletes are recognized around the world for their tremendous success and dedication to their sport," said Minister of State Gosal. "This is why our Government is pleased to support the Essent ISU World Sprint Speed Skating Championships 2012, which will provide our top speed skating athletes with valuable international competition experience that they will carry with them for years to come."

Speed Skating Canada, in conjunction with an organizing committee, will host this year's Essent ISU World Sprint Speed Skating Championships in Calgary on January 28 and 29, 2012. The Essent ISU World Sprint Speed Skating Championships are held every year and attract approximately 80 athletes from 15 countries.

"Every time our skaters wear the maple leaf at Olympic Games and world competitions, every time our national, development and talent squad teams take to the ice, they have a strong support team behind them," said Jean-Paul Cody-Cox, Speed Skating Canada CEO. "Starting with their parents, to their teammates, support staff and coaches, our skaters also know and appreciate the contributions that Sport Canada has made to their careers, and of those who have come before and will come after."

The Government of Canada is the single largest contributor to sport in Canada and supports participation and excellence from the playground to the podium. A contribution of $190,000 was provided to Speed Skating Canada through Sport Canada's Hosting Program. The Government of Canada has also committed $3,976,830 to Speed Skating Canada for 2011-2012 through the Sport Support Program.

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

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