Mayor Katz honours all 2006 Winnipeg Olympic Athletes
Park and rejuvenated running oval to be named in honour of Winnipeg Olympians

MEDIA RELEASE:

WINNIPEG April 11, 2006 - Committed to recognizing the achievements of all the Winnipeg Olympians who participated in the 2006 Torino Olympics, Mayor Sam Katz today unveiled plans to name “Olympian Track,” which will be located in the newly renovated “Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex”, and announced that a North Kildonan city park will be named “Olympic Park.”

The announcement was made at Old Market Square in the Exchange District during a public celebration that recognized the achievements of all eight of Winnipeg’s Olympians.

“Winnipeg was blessed to have many talented athletes representing our city and country at the 2006 Olympics,” said Mayor Katz. “It is important to recognize the achievements of these tremendous athletes and encourage all of our youth to strive to do their best and look to these individuals as positive role models.”

Cindy Klassen (Speed Skating), Clara Hughes (Speed Skating), Mike Ireland (Speed Skating), Jennifer Botterill (Women’s Hockey), Shannon Rempel (Speed Skating), Delaney Collins (Women’s Hockey), Brittany Schussler (Speed Skating), Sami Jo Small (Women’s Hockey), were all acknowledged at today’s announcement and celebration. Countless Winnipeggers turned up at Old Market Square to show their support and celebrate the achievements of Winnipeg’s Olympians.

“Winnipeg has once again showed that our city is known for producing world class athletes, and I want to thank all of the athletes for representing our city,” said Mayor Katz. “By honouring our athletes in a permanent way, Winnipeg shows that we appreciate their efforts, sacrifice, and dedication, and wish them all well in future competitions.

The naming of the facilities, park, and street will be voted on by City Council on April 26th, 2006.