August 09, 2013 (Mont-Sainte-Anne, Quebec) – The Honourable Bal Gosal, Minister of State (Sport), today announced the Government of Canada’s contribution to Cycling Canada Cyclisme in support of the 2013 UCI (International Cycling Union) Mountain Bike World Cup. The event is being held August 8 to 11 at Mont-Sainte-Anne, Quebec.

“The Government of Canada is proud to provide support to Cycling Canada Cyclisme for the 2013 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup,” said Minister of State Gosal. “This event offers an opportunity for our athletes to compete against some of the best in the world, while also bringing a welcome economic boost to the local community.”

“Hosting the highest level of Olympic cross country and downhill mountain bike racing in Canada would not be possible without the significant support of the Government of Canada,” said Greg Mathieu, Chief Executive Officer and Secretary General of Cycling Canada Cyclisme. “When Mont-Ste-Anne welcomes the mountain bike world, the opportunities for Canadian athletes, coaches, and officials are greatly enhanced and help build our sport system. It will be a great three days of racing.”

Cycling Canada Cyclisme is the national sport organization responsible for organizing and promoting cycling in Canada. Its mission is to create and sustain an effective system that develops talented Canadian cyclists to achieve Olympic, Paralympic, and World Championship medal performances.

The Government of Canada is the single largest contributor to sport in Canada and supports participation and excellence from playground to podium. The Government of Canada has provided $100,000 through Sport Canada’s Hosting Program for the 2013 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup. Sport Canada’s Sport Support Program provided more than $4 million to Cycling Canada Cyclisme during the 2012-2013 fiscal year. Sport Canada’s Athlete Assistance Program also provided over $1 million to support 97 Canadian cycling athletes with living and training expenses.