Harper Government Supports the 2013 FIS Freestyle Ski World Cup at Val Saint-Côme

SAINT-CÔME, QC, Jan. 12, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of Industry and Minister of State (Agriculture), on behalf of the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), today announced the Government of Canada's contribution to the Canadian Freestyle Ski Association (CFSA) in support of the 2013 International Ski Federation (FIS) Freestyle Ski World Cup in Val Saint-Côme. The event is being held on January 12, 2013.

"Our Government is proud to continue supporting our athletes and coaches and to provide them with opportunities to compete right here at home," said Minister of State Gosal. "Our athletes are an enormous source of pride and have proven to be exceptional role models. Their dedication to the sport of freestyle skiing is an inspiration to all Canadians."

"Hosting international sport events brings a welcome boost to the local economy and showcases this beautiful region to the world," said Minister Paradis." I congratulate the organizers and volunteers, and wish our freestyle skiers continued success on the road to the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympic Games."

The CFSA is the governing body for the sport of freestyle skiing in Canada. Its mission is to develop—in a safe, fun, and ethical manner—Olympic and world champions in all disciplines of the sport of freestyle skiing. The 2013 FIS World Cup at Val Saint-Côme will attract 55 athletes from 11 countries, including 7 Canadian carded athletes.

The Government of Canada is the single largest contributor to sport in Canada and supports participation and excellence from playground to podium. A contribution of $115,000 for this event was provided to the CFSA through Sport Canada's Hosting Program. The Government of Canada has also committed more than $3.6 million to the CFSA for 2012-2013 through the Sport Support Program. In 2011-2012, approximately $672,000 was provided through the Athlete Assistance Program to support 61 freestyle ski athletes with living and training expenses.

SOURCE: Canadian Heritage

For further information:

For more information (media only), please contact:

Dustin van Vugt
Chief of Staff
Office of the Honourable Bal Gosal, P.C., M.P.
Minister of State (Sport)
819-934-1122
[e-mail]

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
[e-mail]

(This news release is available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Newsroom.)