Montréal, Quebec, March 27, 2007 The Honourable
Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Minister of Labour and Minister of
Canada Economic Development, today announced that the
Concours hippiques de Blainville has been awarded $83,520
in non-repayable funding to promote the
Classique internationale de Blainville equestrian
competition at four major events in the United States and France.
"In funding the Classique, we are seeking to strengthen a regional
asset that promises a growth-generating impact on the Basses-Laurentides
economy. Drawing the elite from the world equestrian community, this event is an
absolute must for horse enthusiasts and a highly popular attraction for
tourists. Our support reflects the determination of Canada's new government to
bolster the development of organizations like the
Concours hippiques de Blainville and promote their
exposure and visibility on the international stage. This event's three weeks of
competition will bring major spin-offs to the region and help it earn its
standing as a prime tourist destination," stated Minister Blackburn.
The 2007 Classique internationale de Blainville will
feature a wide array of activities, including two world-calibre events
sanctioned by the International Equestrian Federation, namely the dressage
competition, to be held from June 28th to 30th, and the jumping
competition, which takes place July 4th through 8th and 11th through 15th.
Over the years, the event has also come to include a variety of tourism
activities of wider appeal to the general public and families.
"The Classique internationale de Blainville is very
well ranked within the world of international equestrian competitions. It is a
top-calibre event held on a site that garners the praise of riders and judges
alike. This funding from Canada Economic Development will enable us to
promote the Classique to riders and stable owners in the
United States and South America, with the goal of drawing an even
greater number of competitors and visitors," added
Concours hippiques de Blainville
President Jean-Pierre Arvisais.
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Sources:
Nathalie JutrasCommunicationsCanada Economic DevelopmentTel.:
514-283-2800E-mail: nathalie.jutras@dec-ced.gc.ca
Roxane MarchandPress SecretaryOffice of the Honourable Jean-Pierre
BlackburnCanada Economic Development Tel.: 819-953-5646Cell.:
613-816-5094E-mail: roxane.marchand@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
