Statement by the Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), on the Occasion of the Opening Ceremonies of the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games

OTTAWA, Jan. 28, 2013 /CNW/ - Tomorrow marks the official opening of the 2013 Special Olympics World Winter Games in PyeongChang, South Korea.

Close to 3,300 athletes from more than 100 countries, including 101 Canadians, will take part in the Games from January 29 to February 5, and we look forward to cheering them on.

Tomorrow, members of our Canadian Special Olympics Team will march proudly into the Olympic stadium, led by our flag bearer, cross country ski athlete Rachel Bleau (TBC), as they begin their journey to the podium.

As Minister of State (Sport), I wish great success to all the Canadian Special Olympics athletes who will proudly represent our country at this major competition. I would also like to thank the coaches, mission staff and volunteers who support and encourage our athletes on this exceptional journey.

Our Government is proud to support our Special Olympics athletes, who are a source of pride and inspiration for all Canadians.

SOURCE Canadian Heritage