Men's Hockey Breaks Attendance Record

The 2011 Canada Games is already breaking attendance records, with more than a week left to go in the 17-day event.

The men's hockey gold-medal game between Quebec and British Columbia was sold out by Feb. 13, with the crowd of more than 8,500 setting a Canada Games record for ticket sales in men's hockey and a single-game attendance record for any sport at the Canada Games.

The puck drops tonight, Feb. 18, at 7:30 p.m. at the Halifax Metro Centre. The game will be televised live nationally on TSN2 and RDS and streamed live on www.bellaliant.net.

"We've been delighted with the attendance at all of the sports and venues during week one," said Chris Morrissey, CEO 2011 Canada Games. "We knew hockey would be a popular sport, but to set an attendance record is fantastic. It really demonstrates the support Nova Scotians are showing for these Games."

The women's gold-medal game next Saturday at Dartmouth Sportsplex is also already sold out.

"This really demonstrates just how passionate Nova Scotians are about this sport," said Don Matheson, president, Hockey Nova Scotia. "And it really bodes well for the future growth of our game in the province when you see just how much support there is for major events like this."

"This, once again, shows why Nova Scotia is a great host and continues to set the standard for major events," said Grant MacDonald, director, Major Events and Community Partnerships, Events Nova Scotia. "Not only will these events have an impact on sport, but they will leave a legacy and economic impact on the province for years to come."

Nova Scotia has excelled as a host for a number of major hockey events, including setting attendance records set during the 2003 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship and the 2004 IIHF World Women's Hockey Championship.

Ticket information for week two events is available www.canadagames2011.ca, through www.ticketatlantic.com and by phone at 902-451-1221 or toll-free at 1-877-451-1221.