OTTAWA, September 6, 2008 - The Honourable Helena Guergis, Secretary of State (Foreign Affairs and International Trade) (Sport), today wished Canada's athletes well as they prepare to compete in the XIII Paralympic Games taking place fro om September 6 to 17, 2008, in Beijing, China.
"I am truly inspired by our athletes and, on behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish them the best of luck as they compete against the best in the world at the largest Paralympic Games e ver held," said Secretary of State Guergis. "These Games are the culmination of years of hard work and training for our athletes, and I'm sure they will make all Canadians proud. I also want to congratulate swimmer Donovan Tildesley on the honou r of being selected to carry our flag at the opening ceremony."
There are 150 athletes--along with 120 coaches, support staff and other officials--representing Canada at these Paralympic Games. The Games are expected to attract more than 4000 athletes from 145 countries, who will compete in 471 events in 20 sports and disciplines. The events will be held at 20 venues in and around Beijing, with the sailing events taking place in Qingdao and the equestrian events in Hong Kong.
A list of the members of Canada's Paralympic Team and other information on the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Summer Games is available on the Canadian Paralympic Committee website at www.paralympic.ca
Through sport, the Government of Canada is c ommitted to promoting hard work, competition, achievement, and teamwork. In 2008-2009, the Government of Canada's investment in the Canadian sport system will reach an all-time high of $166 million to support participation and excellence in sport from the playground to the podium. This amount includes the Budget 2008 commitment of $24 million over two years and an additional $24 million per year in ongoing support to Canada's summer sport athletes through the Road to Excellence program.
Information:
Office of the Honourable Helena Guergis
Secretary of State
(Foreign Affairs and International Trade)
(Sport)
613 995-1293
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-91 01
1 866 669-6155
