Government of Canada Supports CORK International Regatta

by Canada News Centre on 18 Aug 2010 KINGSTON, Ontario, August 16, 2010 - Today the Government of Canada announced funding to help the Canadian Yachting Association host the 2010 CORK OCR International Regatta, which runs August 16 to 25 in Kingston, Ontario. The announcement was made by Gord Brown, Member of Parliament (Leeds-Grenville), on behalf of the Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of State (Sport).

'The waters off Kingston offer some of the best freshwater sailing in the world, and I'm proud to announce funding in support of such a distinguished international regatta,' said Mr. Brown. 'Not only will this sailing competition bring in elite crews from Canada and abroad, but will once again attract visitors and tourists to enjoy what Kingston has to offer.'

'CORK Olympic Classes regatta is the only event of its type in North America during the summer months. As such, it provides a key opportunity for up-and-coming and established Canadian sailors to compete at the top level,' said Paddy Boyd, Executive Director of the Canadian Yachting Association.

'CORK has been hosting annual international regattas for several decades. CORK OCR in particular has provided an opportunity for athletes, coaches, officials, and sport volunteers to gain experience and develop skills. As a volunteer, not-for-profit organization, CORK is most appreciative of the ongoing support from the Government of Canada, which is instrumental in the continued development of the sport,' said James Fraser, CORK Board Chair - Sail Kingston.

Since the 1976 Olympics, the CORK regatta has offered excellent training for sailors, coaches, and officials and has become a fixture on the international calendar. CORK has hosted championships for international classes out of the Portsmouth Olympic Harbour for the past 36 years.

The Government of Canada believes that participation in sport is part of a healthy lifestyle and contributes to a healthy society. Hosting international sport events gives Canada the opportunity to showcase our country to athletes and spectators from all over the world.

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 $50,000 was provided to the 2010 CORK OCR through Sport Canada's Hosting Program.