NR - 11.041 - May 10, 2011
WHITEHORSE – Canada are on the quest for gold at the Canada Games Centre here this week. The cadets are participating in the 37th Annual National Cadet Marksmanship Championship, held from May 8 to 14, 2011.
The National Cadet Marksmanship Championship is the final event in the year-long Marksmanship Program for cadets across the country. The level of skill required to qualify for this competition means that only top athletes are eligible to participate.
"I wish all cadets in this year's marksmanship championship the best of luck," said the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence. "It is through competitions like this that participants gain the exceptional skills and values for which the Cadet program is known."
The Cadet Marksmanship Program is an integral part of the overall national Cadet Program. It teaches cadets self-discipline, builds their confidence, and allows them to compete equally in a gender neutral recreational sport. The program is patterned on Olympic-style competitive shooting, with an emphasis on the safe handling and care of firearms. Several Canadian Olympians had their start through the Cadet Program, including athletes Pat Vamplew and Mike Ashcroft.
“In addition to being a marksmanship championship, it is a wonderful opportunity for Sea, Army, and Air Cadets from all across Canada to meet and learn more about Whitehorse, Yukon and about each other,” said Major-General Dennis Tabbernor, Chief Reserves and Cadets.
With energetic and robust competition, this year’s championship will not only enhance the skills of participating cadets, but will allow for fun and new life-long friendships to be formed – which are all important benefits of the Cadet Program.
- 30 -
Contact information: Captain Kimberley Banaszkiewicz
Public Affairs Officer
Chief Reserves and Cadets
Tel: 613-992-6865, Cell: 613-316-6545
E-mail: kimberley.banaszkiewicz@forces.gc.ca
For updates related to the National Cadet Marksmanship Championship, please visit www.cadets.ca.
