The Nova Scotia sport community scored big today, Feb. 16, with the announcement of the first contribution to the 2011 Canada Games Legacy Fund. The Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation's (NSGC) Support4Sport Program will contribute $1 million toward the Fund.

"Investments like this ensure that the Canada Games legacy lasts well beyond 2011," said Games CEO Chris Morrissey. "This is a great first step for our legacy plan to be built upon."

Since 2006, the Support4Sport Program has raised more than $7 million to help athletes, coaches, officials and community programs that have reached more than 120,000 Nova Scotians.

"We are proud to do our part to help Nova Scotians be healthy and competitive at home and on the world stage," said Marie Mullally, President and CEO of NSGC. "The Support4Sport contribution will help ensure that the benefits of the Canada Games are long lasting. Benefits like these are what help develop vibrant communities across our province."

Jamie Ferguson, CEO of Sport Nova Scotia, said the Support4Sport Program is already making a difference at the individual and community level.

"The Support4Sport Program is making an incredible impact on every level of the sport system across the province," said Mr. Ferguson. "These additional funds will help us broaden the reach so that more Nova Scotians will enjoy the benefits of participating in sport."

The Canada Games Legacy Fund will benefit youth for years to come in amateur sport, culture and recreation. More details about the Games legacy fund will be announced in the spring.

Media Contacts:

Andrea Young
Halifax 2011 Canada Games
902-490-2332
E-mail: canadagames2011.ca

Robyn McIsaac
Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation
902-424-4443
Cell: 902-440-1551
E-mail: nsgc.ca