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Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
Tourism, Culture and Recreation
Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
March 11, 2011

Cain’s Quest Breaking Trails for Extreme Sporting in Labrador

Snowmobilers from Newfoundland and Labrador and parts of Canada and the United States are convening on Labrador for the annual running of Cain’s Quest. Supported by a Provincial Government investment of $128,660, the race is set to begin on March 12 and will offer participants a challenging experience in a beautiful natural environment.

“Snowmobiling is a major economic generator and Labrador is every snowmobiler’s dream,” said the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. “Great conditions and a breathtaking backdrop attract a growing number of participants, spectators, and volunteers every year to Cain’s Quest. With such an influx of people, there are greater opportunities for a broad range of retailers such as accommodations, food and beverage, and other service providers to benefit.”

Of the Provincial Government’s investment, the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development is providing $103,660, while the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation is contributing $25,000.

“Cain’s Quest has become a highly-anticipated racing competition that takes place across some of Labrador’s most rugged terrain,” said the Honourable Terry French, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation. “With snowmobilers travelling from various parts of Newfoundland and Labrador, the country, and throughout the world, there is no question Cain’s Quest exemplifies the meaning of adventure tourism in the province.”

Snowmobiling is a significant economic generator in Canada. A 2006 study completed by the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations indicated that the economic impact of snowmobiling in Canada is $6 billion annually, which encompasses manufacturing, dealerships, and tourism-related businesses.

“The Cain’s Quest Snowmobile Endurance Race is changing the way Labrador is viewed in the eyes of the world,” said the Honourable John Hickey, Minister of Labrador Affairs. “This great spectacle of endurance racing is achieving international attention and is building on Labrador’s growing reputation as a premier destination for adventure tourism. Participants and organizers are to be commended for their efforts in making this competition an exhilarating example of extreme sporting at its finest.”

The race, navigated by teams of two, spans about 2,300 kilometres starting on March 12 and culminating with the awards ceremony on March 19. The race normally treks across Labrador but due to unique weather conditions the race route for the 2011 event was changed to ensure racer safety. Beginning in Labrador City - Wabush, racers then head to Schefferville, Quebec, Kuujjuaq, Nunavik, and back to Churchill Falls before returning to Labrador City.

"I am delighted that our government is making this very significant investment again this year in the running of Cain's Quest,” said Jim Baker, MHA, Labrador West. “As one of the toughest challenges to be found on this continent, Cain's Quest receives wide international media exposure showcasing Labrador as a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts."

The White Wolf Snowmobile Club was formed in 1997 to enhance and develop the recreational snowmobiling industry throughout western Labrador. A major contribution of the group is the development of a groomed trail system connecting to Quebec’s extensive trail network and the rest of Canada. The group has groomed in excess of 450 kilometres of high-quality trails, receiving exceptional reviews from local and out-of-province riders.

“Cain’s Quest is a world class event which has been instrumental in promoting this province, and in particular Labrador, as a premier snowmobiling destination,” said Todd White, co-chair, Cain’s Quest Committee. “This event has grown dramatically since its inception in 2006. The support from all levels of government, our corporate sponsors, and the over 300 volunteers help make this event a reality every year. The 2011 event has 26 teams with over half coming from outside the province and the country including a racer from France. This is truly an international event and is one of the biggest snowmobiling events in the world. It’s happening right here in our province.”

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Media contacts:

Scott Barfoot
Director of Communications
Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
709-729-4570, 690-6290
scottbarfoot@gov.nl.ca 
Diana Quinton
Director of Communications
Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation
709-729-0928, 631-8155
DianaQuinton@gov.nl.ca 
John Tompkins
Director of Communications
Department of Labrador and Aboriginal Affairs
709-729-1674, 728-7762
jtompkins@gov.nl.ca 
Donna Ivey
Communications Manager
Government Members Office
709-729-0898, 697-1424
donnaivey@gov.nl.ca 
Todd White
Co-Chair
Cain’s Quest Committee
709-944-5011 

2011 03 11                                                                          9:45 a.m.
 

 
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