SASKATCHEWAN ATHLETES TO COMPETE IN 2004 OLYMPICS

Released on July 26, 2004

Seven athletes from Saskatchewan have been chosen to compete for Team Canada at the upcoming 2004 Summer Olympic Games in Athens, Greece, August 13th-29th.

"I want to congratulate all the athletes from Saskatchewan who have been chosen to be members of Team Canada. Few achieve the distinction of competing at the level of the Olympic games and the selection of these athletes to Canada's Olympic team is a testament to their perseverance, dedication and hard work," Premier Lorne Calvert said. "Saskatchewan is very proud of your achievement and we wish you all the best as you strive to achieve your personal best at the Olympics next month."

Nicole Cargill of Regina will compete as a member of Canada's synchronized swimming team. Mike Mintenko of Moose Jaw and Riley Janes of Saskatoon are members of the Canadian swim team. Cam Baerg and Jake Wetzel, both of Saskatoon, will represent Canada in the rowing competition, with Rochelle deJong of Regina attending as a spare. Erin Cumpstone and Viola Yanik, also of Saskatoon, will compete in women's softball and women's freestyle wrestling respectively.

In addition to these seven, another eight Saskatchewan athletes are competing at the Paralympic Games – Amy Alsop of Saskatoon in Goalball; Mike Bacon and Alan Semeniuk of Saskatoon in Wheelchair Rugby; Lisa Franks, Clayton Gerein and Rick Reelie of Saskatoon in Wheelchair Athletics; Earle Connor of Saskatoon in Athletics; and Bruce Heidt of Mankota in Air Rifle.

"The Olympics are about excellence at the highest level," Calvert said. "All of us can be very proud that Saskatchewan people will be doing their part to contribute to the success of the 2004 Summer Olympic Games."

In addition to the athletes, a number of Saskatchewan residents will also be participating at the games as coaches, officials and support staff.

Also going to Athens will be swimming official Bill McFarlane, wrestling coach Todd Hinds of Saskatoon, synchronized swimming judge Sandra Roberts of Swift Current and Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco as a boxing official. Ryan Flannigan of Prince Albert is one of two Canadian youth ambassadors attending the Olympic Youth Camp.

Regina's Lorne Lasuita will be an administrative officer with Village Operations. Team Canada's Liz Harrison of Saskatoon and Pierceland's Sherry Gross, as well as Maple Creek's Connie Burton will be on the medical staff.

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For More Information, Contact:

Janet Peters Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306) 787-4967