Hon. Alice Wong, P.C.

Harper Government Supports Yonex Canada Open 2011

RICHMOND, BC, July 21, 2011 – The Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State (Seniors) and Member of Parliament (Richmond), on behalf of the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), today announced the Government of Canada’s contribution to the Yonex Canada Open 2011, an elite-level badminton tournament to be held July 19 to 24 in Richmond, British Columbia.

“Our Government is proud to support Badminton Canada in hosting the Yonex Canada Open 2011,” said Minister Gosal. “Headlined by world-class Canadian and international badminton stars, this event will surely be thrilling for competitors and fans alike.”

“Holding world-class events such as this not only benefits Canadian athletes and other participants from around the globe, but it also has a positive impact on the local economy and the community,” said Minister of State Wong. “Once again, the City of Richmond, organizers, and volunteers are welcoming the world to this 2010 Winter Games legacy facility.”

More than 250 athletes from 35 countries will be competing in the six-day event at the Richmond Olympic Oval, including Canada’s most promising hopefuls for the London 2012 Olympic Games.

The Government of Canada is the single largest contributor to sport in Canada and supports participation and excellence from the playground to the podium. A contribution of $15,000 was provided to Badminton Canada for the Yonex Canada Open 2011 through Sport Canada’s Hosting Program.

For further information:

Jenny Van Alstyne
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Bal Gosal, P.C., M.P.
Minister of State (Sport)
819-934-1122
jenny.van.alstyne@pch.gc.ca

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca

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