Minister Copps Congratulates Canada's Winter Olympic and Paralympic Teams
CALGARY, February 1, 1998 -- On the occasion of the send-off of the Olympic Team, Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps took the opportunity to express her best wishes to members of Canada's Olympic and Paralympic Teams. Minister Copps will be in Japan for the Olympic Games and bilateral meetings from February 15 to 24."In Canada, nothing draws us closer together as a nation than to see our athletes competing on the world stage," said Minister Copps. "When our athletes march in behind the Canadian flag, they are there for all Canadians."
The XVIIIth Olympic Winter Games represent the ultimate challenge for the international athletes who will compete in 68 events in 13 sports from February 7 -- 22 in Nagano, Japan. This year, Canada will field teams in three new winter Olympic events: women's ice hockey, curling and snowboarding.
Canadian athletes have certainly made their mark at past Winter Paralympics. The VIIth Winter Paralympic Games, the first to be held in Asia, take place March 5 -- 14, 1998, also in Nagano. Athletes from 30 countries will compete in alpine skiing, biathlon, cross-country skiing, ice sledge speed race, and ice sledge hockey. The Paralympians will be leaving for Nagano from Vancouver on February 27.
The Minister said that more than almost anything else, sport reflects what Canadians value most -- the pursuit of excellence, fairness and ethics, inclusion and participation. "Members of Canada's Olympic and Paralympic Teams are important role models for Canadians of all ages, but especially for our youth," said Minister Copps. "We admire them because they dare to dream and they courageously pursue their dreams. They truly represent Canada's best."
"The Government of Canada is proud to support our athletes and coaches through its many programs," added the Minister. "In return, the athletes unite us in our appreciation of the heights that Canadians can achieve through hard work and determination. They inspire us and challenge us to match their dedication and passion. Canadians salute all of them as they pursue their Olympic and Paralympic dreams."
Information:
Jacques Lefebvre
Senior Communications Advisor
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
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