NLIS 2
July 19, 2002
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)
 

Minister announces funding for triathlon world cup race in Corner Brook

Julie Bettney, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, announced today funding of $150,000 to support the International Triathlon Union (ITU) World Cup Race in Corner Brook. Minister Bettney made the announcement at the opening news conference for the triathlon event.

"Government views the Tri-Fest in Corner Brook as the cornerstone of the sport tourism industry in this province," said Minister Bettney. "The triathlon race in Corner Brook has established itself on the international circuit, capturing the attention of people around the world."

Minister Bettney said the triathlon also promotes an active, healthy lifestyle. She said her department is committed to increasing the level of physical activity of the people of this province considering two-thirds of the population are not active enough.

"The triathlon has stirred the imaginations and peaked the interest of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador," said Minister Bettney. "This is quite evident by the level of participation in the events held throughout the Tri-Fest. We cannot all be elite athletes; yet, events such as the Downtown Dash, Kids of Steel, and the amateur races provide the opportunity for all of us to get active."

The provincial government has played a significant sponsorship role since the very first World Cup Triathlon and it is pleased to be able to do so again this year, said Bob Mercer, MHA for Humber East.

"In my mind, the provincial funding that we provide for this event is not an operating grant, it�s a definite investment," said Mr. Mercer. "Tri-Fest and the ITU events bring so much to this region and the province in terms of exposure that, I would estimate, what we get in return for our investment is tenfold."

The success of the triathlon depends significantly on the commitment of the people and the business community in this region, said Ed Joyce, MHA for Bay of Islands.

"It takes hundreds of volunteers and support from businesses to make Tri-Fest happen," said Mr. Joyce. "I commend all the volunteers, the corporate sponsors and the many people who cheer on all the participants in the various events. This is certainly our time to shine."

The highlights of Tri-Fest 2002 include: the ITU World Cup on Sunday starting at 12 noon with the women�s event and 2:30 p.m. with the men�s; the 21st annual Corner Brook Triathlon at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday; and the Coleman�s Kids of Steel 10 a.m. Saturday.

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-0928 or (709) 685-4624 (cell).

2002 07 19                              3:15 p.m.


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