Prime Minister Stephen Harper congratulates Marianne St. Gelais on Olympic Silver Medal

February 17, 2010

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today congratulated Marianne St. Gelais, whose exceptional performance today in the ladies’ 500-metre short track speed skating event was rewarded with a silver medal at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

“On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to congratulate Marianne St. Gelais on her stirring performance in winning a silver medal in short track speed skating,” said the Prime Minister.  The passion and commitment demonstrated by our athletes at these Games is an inspiration to all as we strive to own the podium in 2010.”
 
Ms. St. Gelais was born in Roberval, Quebec, and now lives in Montreal.  This is her first medal in her first Olympic Games.  She is the World junior record holder in 500 metres and has won nine medals in two World Cup seasons.  She was named Speed Skating Canada’s 2009 Rising Star for short track.
 
The 2010 Olympic Winter Games are being held from February 12 to 28.  Canada will be represented by more than 200 athletes who will compete in a 15-sport competition schedule at nine venues in Vancouver, Richmond and Whistler.  More than 5500 athletes, coaches and team officials from more than 80 countries are participating in these Olympic Games.