HALIFAX, July 17, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport), Gerald Keddy, Member of Parliament (South Shore-St. Margaret's), today announced funding of $250,000 for the 2009 Nautel Laser World Championships through the Canadian Yachting Association.
"Canadians are excited to welcome the world to the Laser World Championships. This event presents a unique opportunity for our Canadian sailors to compete and showcase their skills right here at home," said Minister of State Lunn. "Our Government is proud to contribute $250,000 to one of the largest sailing events in Canada."
"This is great news for Nova Scotia and St. Margaret's to welcome over 500 of the best sailors worldwide for three weeks this August and September," said Mr. Keddy. "The 2009 Nautel Laser World Championships will certainly bring significant sport, economic, and social benefits to our community."
"The Canadian sailing community is thrilled by the support provided to the Laser World Championships," said Ken Dool, High-Performance Director of the Canadian Yachting Association. "This event provides an exceptional opportunity for our elite team members and developing athletes to compete on our home waters against some of the best sailors in the world. St. Margaret's Bay Sailing Club has been a huge supporter of Olympic-class sailing in Canada, and to have the World Championships come to us and to receive this type of support will provide a lasting legacy in the sailing community."
This will be Canada's first opportunity in 29 years to host the world again for the Laser World Championships. These championships are held every year and attract 180 athletes from 60 countries. The Laser class is now the largest adult and youth racing class in the world, and is the most active Olympic-class sailboat worldwide.
The 2009 Nautel Laser World Championships are scheduled to take place from August 19 to September 5, 2009, in St Margaret's Bay, Nova Scotia.
Established in 1931, the Canadian Yachting Association is the national governing body for sailing in Canada. The Canadian Yachting Association represents all participants, including recreational sailors and high-performance athletes at the club, provincial, national, and international level.
Michelle Yao
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Gary Lunn, P.C., M.P.
Minister of State (Sport)
819-934-1131
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
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