Minister congratulates figure skater Joey Russell

Tourism, Culture and Recreation Minister Tom Hedderson today congratulated Labrador City figure skater Joey Russell for winning the Canadian junior men�s figure skating championships in Ottawa.

"Joey Russell has now become the first figure skater from Newfoundland and Labrador to win a Canadian singles championship," said Minister Hedderson. "As the minister responsible for sport and on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, I would like to congratulate Joey and to let him know we are extremely proud of his incredible performance."

Landing five triple jumps, Mr. Russell, 17, won with 151.93 points at the Canadian figure skating championships yesterday. Born and raised in Labrador City, Mr. Russell fell in love with skating when he joined the Polaris skating club at the age of seven. Mr. Russell, who is still a member of his hometown club, currently trains at Mariposa School of Skating in Barrie, Ontario.

"At the championships, Joey demonstrated his ability to compete against the best in the country," added Minister Hedderson. "This young man is a great ambassador for our province and we look forward to seeing him compete on the national and international stage in the future."

Media contact: Susanne Hiller, Communications, (709) 729-0928

2006 01 13                                         4:10 p.m.