Executive Council
March 24, 2014

The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Nick McGrath, Minister Responsible for Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs:

Minister Congratulates 2014 Cain’s Quest Winners

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in this Honourable House to acknowledge and congratulate Jason Watkins and Kevin Willmott of Labrador West, winners of the 2014 Cain’s Quest Snowmobile Endurance Race. I also take this opportunity to recognize all those who participated in this year’s competition.

Cain’s Quest is touted as the world’s longest and toughest snowmobile endurance race and this year was the toughest yet for racers. Twenty-nine motivated teams started the race in Labrador West on March 1 and frigid temperatures and treacherous conditions tested them for most of the 3,600 kilometre route throughout Labrador. Eight teams of two crossed the finish line on Saturday, March 8, and it was my pleasure to celebrate with them and more than 1,100 participants, friends and supporters at the closing ceremonies in Labrador City.

Mr. Speaker, this world-class event brings economic benefits to the entire region and provides an opportunity to showcase Labrador’s rugged natural beauty to the world. The Provincial Government is proud to support this unique sporting challenge with an investment of $95,000 this year.

Labradorians continue to embrace this race, bringing communities and cultures together in the spirit of achievement. Checkpoint communities were more engaged this year than ever before, bursting with excitement as teams came through. The excitement online also reached record levels this year, with over 57,000 visitors from more than 70 countries around the world following online during race week.

Cain’s Quest began in 2006 and this year marks the seventh race challenge. Participation has more than doubled over the years and we look forward to continued success. This one of a kind extreme event is planned and managed by a volunteer-run, non-profit organization. As Minister Responsible for Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize and thank all of the volunteers and sponsors of the biggest and best Cain’s Quest to date.

Mr. Speaker, I ask all Honourable Members to join me in applauding and celebrating all of the racers who dared to take the challenge of Cain’s Quest across the Big Land; and recognizing all those volunteers, sponsors and friends who helped support racers in their journey.

2014 03 24                                        1:55 p.m.