Martin cheers on Paralympic Torch Relay

NEWS RELEASE

OFFICE OF THE PRIME MINISTER OF CANADA

***************************** Prime Minister Stephen Harper marks start of Paralympic Torch Relay

OTTAWA – Prime Minister Stephen Harper today welcomed the arrival of the Paralympic Flame on Parliament Hill after it was ignited a short distance away at an Algonquin fire-lighting ceremony on Victoria Island (Ottawa). 

The lighting of the Flame for the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games marks the launch the 2010 Paralympic Torch Relay. 

This represents an important moment in Canada’s history, as it is the first time that the Paralympic Torch Relay and the Paralympic Winter Games are being held on Canadian soil.

“This flame highlights the courage and determination of the Paralympic athletes who have been training long and hard and are ready to shine at the 2010 Vancouver Paralympic Winter Games,” said the Prime Minister. “The people of Canada are proud that for the first time in our history, we are hosting the Paralympic Winter Games.”

During its ten-day journey, the Paralympic Flame will be carried by nearly 600 torchbearers through Ottawa, Quebec City, Toronto, Esquimalt, Victoria, Squamish, Whistler, Lytton, Hope, Maple Ridge and Vancouver. 

The Paralympic Flame will reach its destination on March 12, when it arrives at BC Place Stadium for the opening of the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games. 

In keeping with its theme – “Spark becomes flame” –  the Torch Relay will showcase the extraordinary achievements of Paralympians and celebrate the endless possibilities of the human spirit. 

The Government of Canada is a proud sponsor of this initiative.

“Excitement is building as we count down to Opening Day of Canada’s Paralympic Games,” said the Prime Minister. “My wife Laureen, my children and I will join all Canadians in cheering on our athletes – Go Canada Go!”  

For more information on the government’s support for the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Torch Relay and the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, visit http://www.canada2010.gc.ca.

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