Federal and provincial support sets northern adventure race up for success
News release
Annual outdoor endurance event a major opportunity for tourism growth in Labrador
March 1, 2024 · Labrador City, Newfoundland and Labrador · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
The rugged landscapes of Labrador feature some of the most exciting opportunities for winter tourism and adventure that Atlantic Canada has to offer. The Government of Canada is investing to support events that showcase the region’s profile as a world-class winter destination, boosting the economy and supporting jobs in communities large and small.
Investing in winter tourism, supporting communities
Today, Yvonne Jones, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Northern Affairs and to the Minister of National Defence (Northern Defence) and Member of Parliament for Labrador, on behalf of the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), announced a non-repayable contribution of $90,000 through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF). This funding will assist with the marketing and hosting of Cain’s Quest Snowmobile Endurance Race, scheduled to begin March 1, 2024.
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, through the departments of Industry, Energy and Technology; Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation; and Immigration, Population Growth and Skills, will make a combined investment of $116,760 to be used for various expenses, including marketing, wages and other logistical costs associated with the race.
These contributions will help showcase Cain’s Quest globally as an exhilarating northern adventure and increase racer registrations from outside of the province. This will not only bring more people into local businesses along the race route; it will also elevate the Labrador region's profile as a premier winter destination for tourists.
Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to ensuring organizations throughout Atlantic Canada have access to the tools and resources they need to grow, reach new markets, create jobs, and promote their communities.
Quotes
“The rugged and breathtaking landscape of Labrador is an outdoor-enthusiast’s playground. Cain’s Quest brings in snowmobile racers from around the globe for the ultimate adventure while showing off our incredible communities, businesses and hospitality along the way. Congratulations to the countless number of volunteers and organizers who make this event possible.”
- The Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA.
“The Government of Canada is committed to making investments, like this one, that help drive tourism, job creation, and economic prosperity. Cain’s Quest showcases Labrador's stunning winter landscapes as a backdrop to an exciting and unforgettable experience for snowmobile racers. It also supports the province’s growing tourism sector and will have a lasting impact on the Labrador region. Safe travels to this year’s participants and best wishes for a successful event.”
- Yvonne Jones, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Northern Affairs and to the Minister of National Defence (Northern Defence) and Member of Parliament for Labrador
“Since 2006, Cain’s Quest has placed a spotlight on Labrador's unique geography, cultures and communities while also raising the region’s profile within the winter tourism industry. We are proud to support this event as it continues to boost development of tourism, business and community partnerships. I wish all teams the best of luck as they race across this beautiful and rugged part of our province.”
- The Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“I can tell you from personal experience, there is nothing quite like participating in Cain’s Quest. This race is a thrill like no other, for both the racers, support teams, and fans. As we launch this year’s race, we’d like to wish everyone a safe, but thrilling, ride through the back country.”
- Chris Lacey, Chair, Cain’s Quest Inc. Board of Directors
Quick facts
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ACOA is providing a non-repayable contribution of $90,000 to Cain’s Quest Inc. to host and market its endurance snowmobile race.
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Cain’s Quest Snowmobile Endurance race began in 2006 as a pilot project that was motivated by a team of volunteers to host a special event in Labrador that would boost the region’s growing winter tourist season and showcase its excellent snowmobile conditions
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Over the years, Cain’s Quest has seen registered racers from Canada, the United States, and European countries such as France, Finland and Switzerland competing to complete the approximate pan-Labrador journey.
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The race route which has grown from 1,500 to approximately 3,500 kilometres, begins in Labrador City on March 1, 2024 and will see riders pass through numerous safety checkpoints as they ride a full Labrador circuit and conclude with an awards ceremony.
Associated links
Contacts
Connor Burton
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Connor.Burton@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Paul McGrath
Director of Communications
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
709-689-5731
Brodie Thomas
Media Relations Manager
Industry, Energy and Technology
709-729-5248; 709-725-3759
Chris Lacey
Chair Board of Directors
Cain’s Quest Inc.
709-944-5011
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