“This rally is a great opportunity for Islanders to meet the athletes, artists, coaches, managers and mission staff who will be representing our Province at the 2009 Canada Games,” said Premier Robert Ghiz. “I hope Islanders will get behind our athletes and artists and cheer them on at the rally and throughout the Games.”

The Team PEI Athlete’s Rally will be held Wednesday, August 12, at 7 p.m. at Credit Union Place in Summerside. This is the only time all members of Team PEI will be together under one roof.

“Team PEI participants have put a lot of time and effort into preparing for these games,” said Carolyn Bertram, Minister of Communities, Cultural Affairs and Labour. “This exciting event will allow us all to show our enthusiasm for the games, and demonstrate just how proud we are of our home team.”

Everyone is welcome and there is no charge to attend the rally. However, supporters are invited to bring non-perishable food items which will then be donated to the Salvation Army Food Bank in Summerside.

BACKGROUNDER:

Team PEI has a delegation size of 316 participants made up of 23 teams who will participate in 18 sports and the National Artist Program during the two weeks of the Canada Games.

Throughout the two weeks of the Canada Games, the Team PEI mission office will be staffed from 7 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. daily. Contact information: Ph (902) 620-0909, Fax (902) 620-0870, email teampei@2009canadagames.ca, online www.teampei.ca