The following is bring distributed at the request of Bob Mercer, MHA - Humber East:

Government announces $150,000 in funding for triathlon event in Corner Brook

Environment Minister Bob Mercer, MHA for Humber East, and Eddie Joyce, MHA for Bay of Islands, today announced a provincial government contribution of $150,000 to support the International Triathlon Union (ITU) World Cup Race in Corner Brook. The ITU World Cup Race will be part of TriFest 2003, taking place July 15-20.

"The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador continues to be a major supporter of the Corner Brook Triathlon Committee," said Minister Mercer. "TriFest leads the way in the development of the sport tourism industry in this province. The event has certainly put Corner Brook and the entire province on the international sporting map."

Minister Mercer said the presence of these elite triathletes in the city for the World Cup Race has certainly captured the interest of local people resulting in increased participation in TriFest.

"With such events as the Aliant Downtown Dash, the Corner Brook Triathlon and the Colemans Kids of Steel, we are witnessing more and more residents of this area taking part," said Minister Mercer. "From its beginnings more than 20 years ago, TriFest is certainly an event of which we all can be proud."

Mr. Joyce said the significant contribution of the provincial government is an acknowledgement of the commitment and dedication of the many volunteers who have been supporting the ITU races and the Corner Brook Triathlon for many years.

"It is because of the participation of the hundreds of volunteers and the support of many local businesses that TriFest has become such a world-class event," said Mr. Joyce. "I commend all those whose tireless efforts have certainly contributed to the development and success of TriFest."

"The Corner Brook Triathlon Committee is extremely pleased to once again receive this financial support from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador," said Mark Sexton, committee chair for the Corner Brook Triathlon. "Ongoing support and generous contributions such as this have helped us realize our goals and provide us with opportunities to pursue new possibilities."

For more information on TriFest 2003, visit www.triourworld.com

Media contact:

Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-2575 or (709) 685-4624
Gillian Bishop, PR/Promotions Manager, TriFest 2003, (709) 639-2000

2003 07 04                                      10:40 a.m.