ATHLETES HEADING TO WEYBURN FOR THE SUMMER GAMES

Athletes from all across Saskatchewan will be converging on Weyburn from August 8th -14th for the 2004 Saskatchewan Summer Games.

"Weyburn is definitely going to be one of the most exciting places in Saskatchewan for those seven days," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Joan Beatty said. "I would encourage everyone to include the Games in their summer holiday plans. Between watching Saskatchewan's finest athletes compete and taking in the cultural activities, there will be no shortage of things to do and see. The people of Weyburn have put together a spectacular event, and I know they will live up to their reputation as some of the friendliest people in the province."

Approximately 2,000 athletes will be competing, and close to 2,000 volunteers will be helping with every aspect of the Games.

"Weyburn is very excited to be hosting the 2004 Saskatchewan Summer Games," 2004 Saskatchewan Summer Games Manager Chantelle Ernst said. "This is the largest participant event that Weyburn has ever hosted, so the City is ecstatic to be hosting the multi-sport Games for the first time!"

"The City of Weyburn and the host committee welcome the many visitors to town, and plan on presenting a first-class performance. In only a couple of weeks, the Games will kick off with an explosion of excitement, with many cultural activities planned and great sporting competitions for all to enjoy."

Beatty added that these Games are also significant because of the addition of the newly created Zone 9, encompassing the northern part of the province. Northern athletes were previously involved in Zone 8 which includes the Prince Albert area.

"The creation of Zone 9 ensures that more residents of the north have an equal chance to participate in the Games experience," Beatty said.

For more information on the Games, log on to www.summergames.ca.

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For More Information, Contact:

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