Government of Canada Celebrates the Torch Relay

with the communities of North Battleford and Lloydminster

Battlefords-Lloydminster, January 12, 2010 – The arrival of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic torch lit up the communities of North Battleford and Lloydminster today as L local Member of Parliament Gerry Ritz presented the two cities with a commemorative plaque for welcoming the Olympic flame in their community.

“The Olympics are a great demonstration of world class athletic competition,” said Ritz. “The torch relay is a unique event that allows families in rural communities like ours to get involved and excited about the upcoming winter games. Go! Canada! Go!”

The Conservative Government has invested $22.5 million to ensure that communities throughout Canada are able to join in the excitement of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay.

The events and festivities organized by each celebration community highlight Canadian pride in our athletes, culture, and country. Canadians from coast to coast have the opportunity to take part in an unforgettable Olympic experience and watch our Canadian athletes go for gold in 2010. Each celebration community offers the opportunity for Canadians to welcome the Olympic Flame.

“The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay is the longest domestic relay in Olympic history,” said Minister of State Lunn. “On its journey, the Olympic Flame will be carried by 12 000 torchbearers through more than 1 000 communities across our country. I invite all Canadians to participate and embrace the Olympic spirit.”

At the end of the Torch Relay, the Olympic flame will arrive in Vancouver on February 12, 2010 for the Opening Ceremony signalling the start of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. The flame will burn for the entire duration of the Games and will be extinguished during the Closing Ceremony on February 28, 2010.

For more information on our Government’s support for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay or the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, visit www.Canada2010.gc.ca.

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