OTTAWA, January 27, 2010 - On behalf of Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I would like to congratulate Brian McKeever, a visually impaired cross-country skier who has been selected for nomination to Canada's Olympic team and Paralympic team. This is truly an exceptional accomplishment, as he is the first winter athlete in the world to be named to both teams.
Mr. McKeever, who comes from Canmore, Alberta, has less than 10 percent vision because of Stargardt's disease. After the Olympic Games conclude on February 28, he will compete in the Paralympic Games that take place from March 12 to 21.
Canadians are embracing the spirit of the Games, and our athletes are gearing up to compete against the best athletes in the world. Our Government recognizes that the 10th edition of the Paralympic Winter Games is a proud moment for Canadians because, for the first time in history, these Games are taking place on Canadian soil.
Vanessa Schneider
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Gary Lunn, P.C., M.P.
Minister of State (Sport)
819-934-1191
vanessa.schneider@pch.gc.ca
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca
