KENORA, ON – Greg Rickford, MP for Kenora, today announced the Government of Canada’s support to communities hosting celebrations during the Olympic Torch Relay’s journey across our country.

“As an avid sports enthusiast, I am especially proud to be an MP of the Host Country for the 2010 Olympics,” said Rickford. “As we begin preparations for hosting the games, I know the Torch Ceremonies will get the Olympic spirit moving across the country. I am delighted that the Torch Route includes stops in seven communities within the Kenora riding.”

The Torch schedule through the riding is as follows:

Day 67 January 4 – Thunder Bay to Kenora, including stops in Ignace, Dryden, Vermilion Bay, Wauzhushk Onigum and Kenora

Day 68 January 5 – Kenora to Winnipeg, including stops in Keewatin and Iskatewizaagegan No. 39

The Government of Canada is providing Kenora with $15,000 for the local celebration.

“Our Committee has been working diligently to make this extraordinary event memorable for everyone in our community. We want to encourage everyone to show their community spirit and celebrate Canadian Athletes on January 4th, 2010 in Kenora!” said Mayor Len Compton.

Funding to Kenora will be used to highlight local talent and artists, provide interactive activities to engage youth and other individuals. 

Across the country, each local celebration will be different, offering unique opportunities for all Canadians to welcome the Olympic Flame.  The events and activities organized by each celebration community will highlight Canadian pride in our athletes, culture and country.

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

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