SAGUENAY, June 3, 2010 - On behalf of the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport), the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of State (Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec), today confirmed the Government of Canada's contribution to the Canadian Cycling Association in support of the 2010 Coupe des Nations Ville de Saguenay.
"Canada Economic Development is proud to provide financial support to the 2010 Coupe des Nations Ville de Saguenay with a non-recoverable contribution of $39,125," said Minister of State Lebel. "Holding this prestigious sport event, which will bring together the world's best cyclists aged 19 to 22, will allow spectators to enjoy high-calibre competitions. We would also like to highlight the effort and dedication of the many organizers and volunteers who are working hard to make this activity a success. Thanks to the promotional activities that go with it, the 2010 Coupe des Nations Ville de Saguenay helps put the region on the world tourism map."
"The Nations Cup U23 meet in Saguenay is an incredible opportunity for athletes from Quebec and Canada to perform on Canadian soil and be exposed to top-level U23 competition," said Mathieu Boucher, Development Director of the Canadian Cycling Association. "This is the only Nations Cup U23 competition in North America, which shows how important the event is."
Teams of six riders will represent their country with the objective of gaining as many points as they can. The goal of each team is to qualify as many riders as possible for the Road World Championship.
The Government of Canada believes that participation in sport is part of a healthy lifestyle and contributes to a healthy society. Hosting international sport events further 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 Canada and supports participation and excellence from the playground to the podium. A contribution of $50,000 was provided to the 2010 Coupe des Nations Ville de Saguenay through Sport Canada's Hosting Program and an additional $39,125 was provided by Canada Economic Development.
Vanessa Schneider
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Gary Lunn, P.C., M.P.
Minister of State (Sport)
819-934-1122
vanessa.schneider@pch.gc.ca
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
