Athletes from across the province, representing 26 sports, were recognized for their athletic accomplishments at the 5^th annual Premier�s Athletic Awards ceremony, held today at the Holiday Inn in St. John�s.

The Honourable Danny Williams, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, congratulated athletes who received grants ranging from $500, $1,000 and $1,500. The amount provided depends on an athlete�s level of competition and required training.

"Sport in this province has come a long way," said Premier Williams. "Increasingly our athletes are being recognized not just provincially, but also on a national and international level. There are many challenges that come with competing at elite levels, and these awards were created, not only to honour athletic excellence, but also to help offset the travel costs associated with training."

The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, said the increasing popularity of the program reflects an increased number of elite athletes throughout the province.

"Government is committed to the advancement of recreation and sport in Newfoundland and Labrador," said Minister Jackman. "It is important that the province�s athletes have adequate training opportunities which allow them to perform to the best of their ability and excel in their sport."

Meanwhile, the Team Gushue Scholarship Award, introduced last year for youth involved in competitive sport who have demonstrated both academic and athletic excellence, was also presented at the ceremony.

This year, the $5,000 scholarship was presented to cyclist Zack Garland and curler Sarah Paul, both of St. John�s.

Premier Williams noted that 2008 is an exciting year for Newfoundland and Labrador athletes.

"Together with provincial sports organizations, the Provincial Government continues to work through its new recreation and sport strategy; Active Healthy Newfoundland and Labrador," said Premier Williams. "Athletes can also look forward to the upcoming Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games, being held in Corner Brook, as well as the upcoming opening of the Provincial Sports Centre."

The Premier�s Athletic Awards Program is open to all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador who are registered with a provincial sport organization recognized by the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation.

Eligible athletes must compete for, and continue to compete for, Newfoundland and Labrador at the Canada Games or other national and regional competitions. Athletes must be attending an educational institution on a full-time basis. While the Team Gushue Scholarship Award is presented annually during the Premier�s Athletic awards reception, athletes apply through the Sport Newfoundland and Labrador Scholarship Program.

- 30 -

Media contacts: