CHARLOTTETOWN, August 29, 2009 - The Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport), today participated in the Closing Ceremony of the Canada Summer Games in Prince Edward Island and acknowledged the talent and skills of Canadian athletes.
"Canadians recognize the efforts of all our athletes who competed in the 2009 Canada Games," said Minister of State Lunn. "They have trained hard to perform their very best and are role models for our youth and a source of pride and inspiration for all Canadians."
"We also recognize the dedication of the numerous volunteers, coaches, parents, and employees who have worked hard to make the 2009 Canada Games a success," added Minister of State Lunn. "These Games could not have taken place without their efforts and the generous hospitality of the people of Prince Edward Island."
"I am extremely proud that Prince Edward Island had the unique opportunity to host this premier event," said the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and Member of Parliament (Egmont). "On behalf of Prime Minister Harper and our Government, I would like to congratulate the athletes of Ontario, whose performances have allowed them the right to claim the 2009 Canada Games Flag as their own."
The Canada Games began more than 40 years ago and continue to play a key role in developing the next generation of Canadian high-performance athletes by providing them with invaluable multisport competition experience.
More than 4,400 young athletes, ranging in age from 12 to 23, competed against each other in 18 sports for the right to claim the Canada Games Flag as their own. The Games featured two new sports on the program--golf and triathlon--and also included events for athletes with physical and intellectual disabilities.
The Government of Canada, through Sport Canada, contributed $9.018 million toward the 2009 Canada Summer Games to cover capital and operational costs, and an additional $6.5 million to cover participants' travel costs.
The Government of Canada believes that sport strengthens individuals, as well as our communities, by bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds.
Michelle Yao
Press Secretary
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
media@pch.gc.ca
