Secretary of State (Physical Activity and Sport) Salutes Pan American Games Athletes Departing for Santo Domingo
OTTAWA, July 23, 2003 -- Secretary of State (Physical Activity and Sport) Paul DeVillers today saluted Team Canada athletes who will be participating in the 2003 Pan American Games in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, from August 1 to 17."The Pan Am Games are an opportunity for our athletes to achieve their goals in high- level, international competition," said Secretary of State DeVillers. "I congratulate the 423 athletes, their coaches and the supporting staff who make up Team Canada, and wish them all good luck. Canadians are proud of our athletes and support them in the competitions at these Pan Am Games."
The Government of Canada is a proud supporter of Team Canada at the Pan American Games and has provided $445,000 to the Canadian Olympic Committee for the planning and preparation of Team Canada's participation in the Games.
"Team Canada is in excellent hands with Chef de mission Gene Sutton. Her experience on previous missions will help the team build on the successes of the Winnipeg Pan Am Games in 1999," added Secretary of State DeVillers. "I would also like to congratulate Jaret Llewellyn, who has been given the privilege of carrying the flag for Canada. His achievements in water skiing have inspired many athletes and he demonstrates the values that characterize sport. By all accounts, Team Canada will instil pride in all Canadians."
Secretary of State DeVillers will be in Santo Domingo to attend the opening ceremonies, and to lend his support to Canadian athletes competing in the Games.
The Pan Am Games bring together approximately 7500 of the world's best athletes from 42 countries, to compete in 35 events. The Pan Am Games are also an opportunity for many of the athletes to qualify to compete at the Summer Olympic Games in Athens in 2004. The opening ceremonies will take place on August 1, and competition will take place over 17 days at venues in and around Santo Domingo.
Information:
Mario Tremblay
Press Secretary
Office of the Secretary of State (Physical Activity and Sport)
(819) 953-7329
[ Media Room ]
