“I encourage all family, friends and supporters to attend the rally and show Team PEI that we support them as they prepare to compete in the Canada Winter Games in Whitehorse, Yukon,” said Premier Binns. “I am very proud of our athletes, coaches, volunteers and families for the years they have dedicated to their sport, these games and to Team PEI. I know they will represent our province with pride!”

The Rally will be held on Tuesday, February 13, at the Delta Prince Edward Island in Charlottetown and is open to the public. The festivities begin at 7 p.m., with athletes, artists, team coaches, managers and mission staff asked to be there by 5:30 p.m.

“The athletes and artists have worked very hard to get to this point and to represent their province,” added Minister MacFadyen, who is the Minister Responsible for Sport. “I sincerely hope the public will come out to the rally and show their support for our athletes and artists.”

The rally will feature the introduction of the teams and the unveiling of the Team PEI walkout uniform.

“The rally is an important part of Team PEI’s preparation for the Canada Games,” stated Francois Caron, PEI chef de mission. “It is the one time where all of the team will be together and is a great way to build team spirit.”

BACKGROUNDER:

• The 2007 Canada Winter Games will take place in Whitehorse, Yukon, from February 23 to March 10.

• Team PEI consists of 179 athletes and artists, 49 coaches and managers and 16 mission staff participating in 19 sports with 16 teams and 1 artist team.

Team PEI Mission Office contact information(for parents, friends, supporters and media):

Tel: 867-393-8524

Fax: 867-393-8550

Email: cg2007.teampe@gmail.com

Web: www.gov.pe.ca/teampei

Host Society: www.2007canadagames.ca (up-to-date results and schedule)

Canada Games Council: www.canadagames.ca