Government Home Search Sitemap Contact Us

May 16, 1997
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)

SummerActive Program Promoting "Walk a Mile in Your Own Shoes"

There is little doubt that John Cabot was an extremely active person. It is with the Cabot Celebration in mind, that this year's SummerActive program has been themed "SummerActive: In The New Founde Land - 500 Years of Active Living".

Sandra Kelly, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, today announced the launch of the 1997 SummerActive program. "Last year, we saw tens of thousands of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians participate in events in more than 200 locations throughout the province," Ms. Kelly said. This year's events begin with a "Sneaker Day" walk around Confederation Building in St. John's. SummerActive '97 starts today and is scheduled to conclude on June 27, 1997.

Formerly "Canada's Fitweek", SummerActive is an expanded program which incorporates a more community-based approach to programming. It is managed by ParticipACTION and delivered in partnership by the provincial government and provincial associations including the Newfoundland and Labrador Parks/Recreation Association.

"SummerActive promotes the benefits of regular physical activity and encourages people to make a personal commitment to an active, healthy lifestyle," the minister said. "We often forget how important a role recreation and active living play in our everyday lives. This extends beyond the obvious physical and psychological benefits to incorporate economic, social and cultural benefits as well."

Parks/Recreation Association President Greg Hillier said: "This is a program for everyone, regardless of their age, ability, or gender. There is of course, an emphasis on getting the more inactive person involved and enthusiastic about the program."

Organizations involved in this year's campaign include: East Coast Trail Association, Parks Canada, Multiple Sclerosis Society, Bicycling Association, Osteoporosis Society, Girl Guides, Softball Canada, Canadian Wheelchair Basketball Association, and Newfoundland Historic Parks Association.

Activities planned for this year include: cycling, fun runs, walks, hikes, swimming, as well as other low to high activity-driven events.

"I am pleased to announce that the Great Labrador Challenge will take place again this year," Ms. Kelly said. "Communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador will also compete this year to have the largest number of residents active during a specified time period."

Persons interested in obtaining additional information about the SummerActive program, orwho would like to obtain a listing of the SummerActive events taking place in each community should contact David Doyle, at (709) 729-5281.

Contact: Laura Cochrane, Director of Communications, (709) 729-0928.