December 3, 2007

Ontario Government Boosts 2008 Ontario Winter Games Funding

$593,500 To Collingwood-area Host Enhances Provincial Championships

TORONTO – The McGuinty government continues to strengthen support of amateur sport with a $593,500 hosting grant for the 2008 Ontario Winter Games, Margarett Best, Ontario Minister of Health Promotion announced today.

“The McGuinty government is committed to supporting amateur sport which influences the quality of life of all Ontarians in a positive way,” said Minister Best.  “The 2008 Games will be a top-notch competition, showcasing athletes who inspire all Ontarians to participate in sport and be physically active.”

The Town of Collingwood and surrounding communities will stage the Games March 6-9, 2008.  More than 3,000 athletes, coaches and officials will participate in the Games, supported by more than 800 volunteers.  The host funding is provided through the Ontario Games Program in partnership with the Sport Alliance of Ontario.
The increased funding is another example of the McGuinty government’s support of amateur sport, which totals $23.7 million this year.  Other examples include:

• The $10 million Quest for Gold Program, which includes the $7 million Ontario Athlete Assistance Program, with the first cycle of payments to athlete recipients to be announced in the coming weeks;
• $7.9 million provided to Provincial and Multi-Sport Organizations on an annual basis for sport programs geared to Ontarians of all ages and abilities, including high-performance athletes.

The Ministry of Health Promotion was established in June 2005 to improve and deliver programs that contribute to healthy living and wellness in this province. Key priorities include Ontario’s smoke-free strategy, healthy eating, active living, sport and recreation, injury prevention and mental health promotion.

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For further information:

Mark Frimpong
Minister’s Office
416-326-5702

Julie Rosenberg
Communications Branch
416-326-4833

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