March 22, 2006 – Canadian speed skating and cycling legend Clara Hughes will be donating $10,000 to the Right to Play organization in honour of her recent triumphs at the Torino Winter Olympics. An ambassador for the non-profit children’s organization, Hughes has also inspired Sutton, Quebec, her hometown-by-adoption, and the Foundation Boulanger-Bédard to donate to Right to Play as well.

“We asked her (Hughes) what she would like from the municipality to celebrate her successes, and she replied that she’d appreciate Sutton donating to Right to Play,” said Mayor Kenneth Hill.

Hughes announced her personal commitment to donate after winning Gold in the 5,000m women’s speed skating event at the Torino Olympics this year. Hughes is among several Olympic athletes who are dedicated to the charity. American speed skater Joey Cheek will also be donating, although unlike Hughes, he receives financial compensation for recent Olympic efforts from the US Olympic Committee.

In addition to the donation, Hughes plans to create the Clara Hughes Foundation and details of this project are forthcoming.

Right to Play is a non-profit organization which provides sports equipment and coaching to Third-World children to foster peace, personal development and community. If you would like to make a donation please visit: www.righttoplay.com.