Increased Canadian Federal Funding Celebrated by Own the Podium

—Government of Canada makes major investment in Canadian sport organizations—

OTTAWA— Own the Podium and the national sport community are celebrating the announcement today by the Government of Canada of $30 million over five years, starting in 2019-20. This funding will allow national sport organizations to develop programs and policies to keep kids in sport while making sure Canadians of all ages, backgrounds and abilities are able to access the extensive benefits of a safe and healthy sport system.

"In just her first year managing the federal sport portfolio, Minister Kirsty Duncan continues to reinforce the Government’s commitment to Canadians that sport is an important community asset and unifier in this country," said Anne Merklinger, chief executive officer, Own the Podium.

"The Government of Canada made it clear today they share Own the Podium’s belief that sport matters in this country. This generous investment will enable Canadian sport organizations to promote accessible, ethical, equitable and safe sports. We are grateful for Minister Duncan’s leadership."

From improving the overall physical and mental health of our youth, increasing productivity, teaching life lessons, integrating new citizens into Canadian culture, reducing obesity and building national pride, this new investment in sport will continue to create a healthier Canada.

"Whether it is today’s critical investment in ensuring a safe and healthy sport system, direct support to Next Generation and medal targeted athletes and coaches, or through hosting of major international sporting events, the Government of Canada has made a positive impact on the communities we live in through sport," added Merklinger.

"The benefits of this investment extend far beyond Olympic and Paralympic athletes winning more medals for Canada. Sport develops the values and characteristics that help make Canadians better on and off the field of play."

About Own the Podium

Own the Podium, a not-for-profit organization, prioritizes and determines investment strategies to national sport organizations in an effort to deliver more Olympic and Paralympic medals for Canada. Own the Podium's largest contributor of funding is the Government of Canada with additional funding provided by the Canadian Olympic Committee/Canadian Olympic Foundation, the Canadian Paralympic Committee/Paralympic Foundation of Canada, along with the corporate community.

For a full summary of Own the Podium initiatives and programs, including a breakdown of support and services by sport, please visit us at www.ownthepodium.org on the Internet.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Chris Dornan

Own the Podium

T: 403-620-8731

E-mail: chris.dornan@ownthepodium.org

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