Vancouver, B.C. (April 27, 2007): 2010 Legacies Now, through its Hosting BCTM program, is investing $50,000 in the 2008 Ford World Women’s Curling Championship, which will take place in Vernon next March. This funding is part of an overall investment of $271,500 in 11 communities hosting 20 major sporting events around B.C.

“Hosting this world-class competition will give us a chance to showcase Vernon to the world, much like the 2010 Winter Games will be our chance to showcase British Columbia to the world,” said Tom Christensen, MLA for Okanagan-Vernon. “I’m proud that our government can support this event through 2010 Legacies Now and proud of the many local residents who worked hard to bring this prestigious competition to Vernon.”

“2010 Legacies Now is committed to building B.C.’s reputation as a premier sport event destination,” said Bruce Dewar, chief executive officer, 2010 Legacies Now. “From wrestling and sailing, to sledge hockey and curling, the Hosting BCTM program is helping communities attract and host a wide range of sport events.”

Over 3,500 spectators will visit Vernon to watch more than 60 athletes compete in the 2008 Ford World Women’s Curling Championship taking place March 22-30, 2008.

“The 2008 Ford World Women's Curling Championship would like to thank 2010 Legacies Now for its invaluable support,” said Rob Pringle, event organizing committee chair, 2008 World Women’s Curling Championship Host Committee. “This Hosting BCTM grant will assist us in developing our local athletes, attracting athletes from around the world, and hosting an excellent competitive event.

“An event like the 2008 Ford World Women’s Curling Championship showcases Vernon as a great sport tourism destination,” said Jack Gilroy, chair of the Greater Vernon Spirit of BC Community Committee. “This is an ideal opportunity for our athletes to compete locally and will be the perfect occasion to develop skilled volunteers within our community.”

Hosting BCTM provides funding to organizations throughout British Columbia to host national and international-level sport events in B.C. Single-sport events at junior, senior and university levels are eligible for funding. This year, events receiving Hosting BCTM grants include Canadian championships, World Cups and Olympic Games qualifying tournaments.

Funded by the Province of B.C. and the City of Vancouver, Hosting BCTM has invested over $1.6 million in 30 communities to host 116 events since 2004.

The application deadline for the next round of Hosting BCTM funding is September 1, 2007. For a complete list of Hosting BCTM grant recipients or to download an application form, please visit www.2010LegaciesNow.com.

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Media Contacts:

Karen McDonald
Director, Communications
2010 Legacies Now
778-327-5180
kmcdonald@2010LegaciesNow.com

Nicole Mezzarobba
Coordinator, Communications
2010 Legacies Now
778-327-5139
nmezzarobba@2010LegaciesNow.com

About 2010 Legacies Now

2010 Legacies Now is a not-for-profit society that works in partnership with community organizations, non-government organizations (NGOs), the private sector and all levels of government to develop sustainable legacies in sport and recreation, arts, literacy and volunteerism. 2010 Legacies Now actively assists communities discover and create unique and inclusive social and economic opportunities leading up to, and beyond, the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.  For more information, please visit www.2010LegaciesNow.com.