OTTAWA, December 4, 2008 - The Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport), today announced Government of Canada funding for the 2009 Whistler Cup, the largest and most important international ski race in North America for young athletes aged 11 to 14.
"The Government of Canada is pleased to contribute to making this event an outstanding success," said Minister of State Lunn. "During this competition, our young athletes will compete against the world's finest up-and-coming alpine skiers, giving us a taste of the excitement to come as these athletes strive to become our future Olympians."
"Whistler Cup gives young Canadian alpine ski racers a unique and valuable opportunity to compete in their home country against the world's best alpine racers," said Wayne Holm, long-time Chairman of the Whistler Cup. "This provides our Canadian athletes with the skills, experience, and confidence to prepare for future ski competitions such as the World Cup and Winter Olympics."
The Whistler Cup is an international ski event organized by the Whistler Mountain Ski Club, endorsed by Alpine Canada Alpin, and hosted by Whistler-Blackcomb. The 17th edition of the Whistler Cup will take place from April 10 to 12, 2009, and attract young athletes from 17 different countries.
The contribution is provided from existing funding through Sport Canada's Hosting Program. The Government of Canada believes that hosting international sport gives Canada the opportunity to showcase our country to athletes and spectators from all over the world.
The Government of Canada is the single largest contributor to sport in this country and supports participation and excellence from the playground to the podium.
Information:
Sean O'Leary
Office of the Honourable Gary Lunn, P.C., M.P.
Minister of State (Sport)
819-934-1122
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
