SASKATCHEWAN ATHLETES TAKE TO WORLD STAGE

As the Olympic Summer Games open in Athens today, the Premier of Saskatchewan is just one of many who will be watching with great interest.

"There are seven Saskatchewan athletes who begin competition as members of Team Canada today, and the whole province is excited and proud of these young people," Premier Lorne Calvert said. "I know many of us will be following the coverage closely and rooting for our athletes as they compete at this highest of levels, with the whole world watching."

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.

"I think it's important for these athletes to know that the province is behind them as they take to this international stage, and that we appreciate the hard work, dedication and sacrifice that it has taken for them to have come so far," Calvert said. "I've extended my best wishes to our athletes to let them know that as the competition begins they are already winners in the hearts of Saskatchewan people."

Immediately following the Olympic Games, which run from today until August 29th, the Paralympic Games swing into action in Athens, and Saskatchewan again is well-represented on Team Canada.

Eight of this province's athletes are participating in 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.

"These athletes are really at the top of their sport, and we have high hopes and best wishes for them as they prepare for their journey," Calvert said. "The Paralympics are the ultimate test of excellence, and we know that our athletes will do us proud. We'll be pulling for them to reach their personal best when competition begins in two weeks."

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Carolyn Rebeyka Media Services Regina Phone: (306) 787-0963