The excitement about the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver and Whistler continues to build across the country. Over the past few months, the Olympic Torch Relay has been spreading the spirit of the Games throughout every corner of Canada. The flame has lit up the hearts of Canadians with pride for our athletes and for this vast country.

Like all Canadians, the Government of Canada is honoured and excited to welcome the world to the Games. Our Government is a major and committed stakeholder in delivering successful and well-managed Games in 2010 and in ensuring that these are Canada’s Games.

Our Government is a proud supporter of our athletes, who have been turning in stellar performances on the world stage all season long. I have seen firsthand the dedication and perseverance of our Olympic hopefuls, and their performances in the months leading up to the Games have given us a taste of the excitement to come.

I am confident that Canadians will win gold here at home and I encourage all Canadians to cheer on our athletes as they strive for excellence.

This Canada 2010 website is another way our Government is helping people to share their pride and experience the Olympic dream. Visitors to the site can explore Canada’s proud Olympic and Paralympic history, learn more about our elite athletes, and understand what makes Canada such a unique country.

These will truly be Canada’s Games, and, as Minister of State (Sport), I invite Canadians and people from all around the world to visit our site and get in the Games!

The Honourable Gary Lunn