Statement by the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), on the Occasion of the Closing Ceremonies of the 1st Winter Youth Olympic Games

OTTAWA, Jan. 22, 2012 /CNW/ - As the very first Winter Youth Olympic Games officially come to an end in Innsbruck, Austria, I would like to congratulate the athletes, as well as the coaches and officials from around the world who took part and made this inaugural event a tremendous success.

Through athletic competition, as well as educational and cultural activities, young athletes adopted and experienced the Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship.

Our Canadian athletes demonstrated skill and determination, and I am certain that their experience will serve them well in the future both as individuals and as athletes.

I would like to thank the International Olympic Committee and the Innsbruck Youth Olympic Games Organizing Committee, as well as the many volunteers who ensured the success of this precedent-setting event for their passion and devotion to the Games.

For more information (media only), please contact:

Dustin van Vugt
Office of the Honourable Bal Gosal, P.C., M.P.
Minister of State (Sport)
819-934-1122
[email protected]