Media advisory - *** Photo opportunity *** - Governor General to Participate in Pan Am Games Torch Relay at Rideau Hall: Share in the Moment!

OTTAWA, June 29, 2015 /CNW/ - His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, will participate in the Pan Am Games Torch Relay on Tuesday, June 30, 2015. The torch will arrive at Sussex Gate at 10:11 a.m. and will make its way to the official residence at 10:15 a.m.

His Excellency is one of more than 3 000 torchbearers carrying the flame across Canada. He will receive the torch from CBC News Ottawa host Lucy van Oldenbarneveld and then hand it over to Winnipeg Jets defenceman Grant Clitsome.

"As we celebrate the Year of Sport in our nation, I invite Canadians to come to Rideau Hall to witness this unique symbol of the Pan Am Games," said His Excellency. "Soon, the world will congregate in Toronto, where close to 7 000 athletes will represent, compete and shine for their respective countries. I'm honoured to be opening both the Pan Am/Parapan Am Games, where Sharon and I will cheer on our Canadian athletes as they showcase their boundless energy and achieve the unexpected. And I applaud the more than 24 000 volunteers, without whom the success of these Games would not be possible."

The Pan Am Torch Relay will take place on the grounds of Rideau Hall, rain or shine. Parking is available in the surrounding neighbourhood. 

About the Pan Am Torch Relay
The torch relay started in Canada on May 30, 2015, and will end its 41-day journey on July 10, 2015, at the Opening Ceremony of the Toronto 2015 Pan Am Games. The Pan Am flame represents the history and spirit of the Games; it is a symbol that unites the 41 Pan American Sports Organization (PASO) member nations. For more information, visit www.toronto2015.org/torch-relay.

About the Toronto 2015 Pan American/Parapan American Games
The Pan American Games will be held from July 10 to 26; the Parapan American Games will run from August 7 to 15, 2015. For more information, visit www.toronto2015.org/.

SOURCE Government House

Media Information: Marie-Ève Létourneau, Rideau Hall Press Office, 613-998-0287, 613-302-0912 (cell), [email protected]; Follow GGDavidJohnston and RideauHall on Facebook and Twitter.