Secretary of State Paul Devillers announces funding for Canada's Kids of Steel programme
WASAGA BEACH, September 7, 2003 -- Secretary of State (Physical Activity and Sport)Paul DeVillers today announced funding of $60,000 to support Triathlon Canada's
Kids of Steel program. Mr. DeVillers made this announcement while attending the Kids of Steel Triathlon in Wasaga Beach.
"The Kids of Steel program is a fun and exciting way for young children to experience how sport enriches our lives," said Secretary of State DeVillers. "Training for triathlons is an ideal way for youth to learn the benefits associated with participation in sport, and to develop skills that will lead to a lifetime of involvement in physical activity and sport."
Kids of Steel is a national triathlon development program for children aged 7 to 19. It is designed to offer kids and young adults the opportunity to experience the sport of triathlon in a positive environment. The distances are shorter than those in adult triathlons, and increase as participants mature.
"I would like to thank Sport Canada for continuing to support the Kids of Steel program," said Bill Hallett, President of Triathlon Canada. "Through the Kids of Steel program, we have learned that most children are fit enough to complete a Kids of Steel triathlon and have fun at the same time. This program promotes lifelong participation, safety, fun, and skill-building."
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through Sport Canada's Sport Participation Development Program. The program aims to increase participation in sport, and was developed on the basis that all Canadians should have access to and benefit from participating in quality sport activities at all levels. It focuses on collaborative efforts involving communities, schools, sport organizations, and all levels of government in the delivery of sport to Canadians.
In 2003-04, the Government of Canada has provided $247,000 to Triathlon Canada.
Information:
Mario Tremblay
Press Secretary
Office of the Secretary of State (Physical Activity and Sport)
(819) 953-7329
Pierre Cyr
Office of the Secretary of State (Physical Activity and Sport)
(613) 294-0319
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