Team N.S. Athletes Celebrate Opening of 2009 Canada Summer Games

Nova Scotia's elite athletes marched into the opening ceremonies at the 2009 Canada Summer Games at Consolidated Credit Union Place in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, today with Nova Scotia's flag proudly held high.

"The atmosphere here is electric. We're really excited and we're ready to compete," said Ron O'Flaherty, Team Nova Scotia chef de mission. "Our goal is to give all of the athletes an unforgettable Canada Games experience. We also plan on standing on the podium and bringing home some medals."

More than 300 athletes will represent Nova Scotia at the games from Aug. 15 to 29. Half of the athletes are competing in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, and the surrounding areas for the first week. In the second week, the other half of the athletes will travel to Prince Edward Island to compete in Charlottetown and surrounding areas.

"It's obvious that the host society has been working hard to support our athletes through the detailed organization of the event and the incredible facilities," said Mr. O'Flaherty. "Tomorrow, we will get out there and show our province how much our athletes have accomplished through their training and dedication to their sports."

The Canada Games is the country's largest amateur multi-sport event. About 4,400 athletes, artists, coaches and managers will compete for 1,500 medals in 18 sports.

Partners supporting Team Nova Scotia include Sport Nova Scotia the Department of Health Promotion and Protection. Official sponsors include MEE Sports, Atlantic Lottery Corporation, CTV, 101.3 The Bounce and the Chronicle Herald.

Keep up to date with Team Nova Scotia news and results at http://ns.canadagames.ca .