ALPINE:

Government of Canada funding boosts Winterstart races

Nov. 26, 2010 — Canadian Heritage 

Canada's elite skiers participating in the 2010 Winterstart World Cup in Lake Louise can continue to count on the Government of Canada's support through Alpine Canada as a result of funding announced Friday by the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport).

Each November, the Winterstart Festival in Banff and Lake Louise kicks off with the Lake Louise Winterstart World Cup alpine ski races. The fastest skiers from around the world compete over two consecutive weekends of men's and women's ski racing. The skiing runs Nov. 27-28 for the men and Dec. 3-5 for the women.

"Our government is pleased to support this annual international competition that showcases the world's elite skiers. As an avid amateur skier, I can appreciate the skill and courage it takes to hurtle down the mountain at speeds of more than 100 kilometres per hour," said Minister of State Lunn. "The skiers provided so many thrills at the 2010 Winter Games, and I wish them much success as they pursue their dreams and strive for excellence."

"I applaud the Government of Canada's continued commitment to amateur sport, ski racing in Canada, and specifically the World Cup races in Lake Louise," said Max Gartner, president of Alpine Canada. "We have a shared vision of continuously moving forward to grow the sport in Canada, ultimately producing champions at all levels of international competition and hosting world-class ski races that are as safe, fair, and enjoyable for everyone as they can possibly be."

Alpine Canada, the governing body for alpine ski racing in Canada, represents more than 50,000 athletes, coaches, officials and volunteer members and more than 200,000 supporting members. ACA manages the high-performance programs for the athletes of the Canadian Alpine Ski Team and the Canadian Para-Alpine Ski Team who represent Canada throughout the world.

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 gives Canada the opportunity to showcase our country to athletes and spectators from all over the world and brings significant sport, economic and social benefits to Canadians and their communities.

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 $250,000 was provided to Alpine Canada through Sport Canada's Hosting Program. 

S-Magazine