"With the excitement of Canada’s outstanding performance in Torino still fresh in our minds and hearts, and the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games just around the corner, now is an exciting time to be a rising athlete in B.C.,"said Campbell. "I congratulate all the athletes being honoured today for their hard work, exceptional talent and commitment to excellence."

The annual Premier’s Athletic Awards recognize top female and male athletes participating in the B.C. Athlete Assistance Program. The B.C. Athlete Assistance Program provides $700,000 in financial support to about 1,500 B.C. athletes through grants ranging from $500 to $3,500.
"The accomplishments of the athletes being honoured today have set them apart – and are I’m sure just the beginning of future achievements,"said Tourism, Sport and the Arts Minister Olga Ilich. "Through programs like the B.C. Athlete Assistance Program and the tremendous support given by our provincial sport organizations, we want to ensure every athlete in B.C. is given the opportunity and training to reach their highest potential."

The program helps athletes reach their athletic goals while pursuing their educational and career goals. The funding supports training and competitive activities of athletes with the potential and commitment to represent B.C. and Canada in athletic competition at the Canada Games, Olympics/Paralympics, Pan American and/or Commonwealth Games.
This year’s recipients were recognized for their outstanding performance during the 2004/05
competitive year. Past award recipients include Paralympian Marnie Abbott (wheelchair basketball) and Olympians Daniel Igali (wrestler), Dianne Cummins (runner), Kelly Law (curling) and Ross MacDonald (sailing).

A commemorative plaque with each athlete’s photograph and list of sport achievements will be displayed at the B.C. Sports Hall of Fame and Museum in B.C. Place Stadium for one year.
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Media
contact:
Mike Morton
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
250 213-8218
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