CALGARY, July 3, 2009 - The Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport), was joined by Mrs. Laureen Harper to officially open the Canada Pavilion at the Calgary Stampede. Invited guests included Canadian athletes Vaughn Chipeur (figure skating), Brad Spence (alpine skiing), and Nathaniel Miller (water polo), as well as 2010 torchbearers Adriano Fisico and Courtney Ferguson.
"With less than a year to go before the Games, I encourage all Canadians to take this opportunity to visit the Canada Pavilion and share in the Olympic adventure," said Minister of State Lunn. "Canadians from every part of the country will celebrate the talents of our athletes and be a part of what will be Canada's Games in 2010."
"I would also like to highlight that in less than four months, Canadians will share in the unique experience of the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay," added Minister of State Lunn. "I would like to thank the Vancouver Organizing Committee and our partners Coca-Cola and RBC for their hard work in reaching out to Canadians from coast to coast to coast to help them embrace the Olympic spirit and be a part of this once-in-a-generation opportunity."
The 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games will highlight the dedication and achievements of Canadian athletes and celebrate Canadian innovation and culture.
The 2009 Canada Pavilion, led by Public Works and Government Services, is a unique travelling showcase that features activities to learn more about the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in an interactive and entertaining environment. The Canada Pavilion Tour gives Canadians the chance to meet our 2010 mascots, see the prototype of the Olympic Torch, and experience sitting in a bobsleigh and sit-ski.
The Pavilion brings the 2010 Winter Games experience to people of all ages across Canada and helps make these truly Canada's Games.
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
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
