Cyclist to Carry Nova Scotia Flag

Cyclist Kate Scallion will begin her fourth Canada Games by leading Team Nova Scotia into the opening ceremonies on Aug. 6 in Regina, Sask.

Health Promotion Minister Rodney MacDonald announced today, July 26, that Ms. Scallion is the team's flag bearer for the first week of the Games. An athlete will be chosen during the second week of the Games to carry the flag into the closing ceremonies.

"To choose our flag bearer, we look for an athlete who demonstrates a strong commitment to sport, to the team, and to Nova Scotia," said Mr. MacDonald. "Kate prides herself on being a Nova Scotian at the top of Canada's sporting elite. She's a role model for her fellow athletes and we're proud to have her carry the Nova Scotia flag."

Ms. Scallion is from Wentworth, Cumberland Co. She competed in cycling at the 2001 Games, and in cross-country skiing in 1999 and 2003. She has represented Nova Scotia at other national events in both sports, and competed as part of Team Canada at the world mountain bike championships in 2002.

"It's a tremendous honour to be flag bearer. I'm thrilled," said Ms. Scallion. "It means a lot to think I'm a role model for athletes in Nova Scotia. I feel this is also an honour for my dad, who passed away in 2003."

Ms. Scallion is entering her third year of studying English at Carleton University in Ottawa. After her studies, she plans to spend a year mountain bike racing in Europe and New Zealand before beginning a masters' degree in English.

The new uniform design was also unveiled today. The four-piece uniform incorporates Team Nova Scotia's official colours -- royal blue, black and white. It includes a blue and white jacket, blue track pants, blue shorts, and a white micro-fibre T-shirt.

The uniform was modeled by rugby player Joe Young of Lantz and soccer player Stephanie Power of Dartmouth. Team members wear the uniform for the opening and closing ceremonies, medal ceremonies and other official occasions.

Team Nova Scotia has 330 athletes competing in 16 sports during the two weeks of the Games. The athletes are supported by 45 coaches, 23 managers, two boatmen and 18 mission staff. Four young artists will participate in the National Artists Program at the Games, bringing the team's total to 422 Nova Scotians.

The Games run from Aug. 6 to 20.