March 5, 2010
Inspiring Torchbearers Lead Paralympic Flame's Journey

VICTORIA - The Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Torch Relay visits Esquimalt and Victoria tomorrow and the torchbearers selected by the Province of British Columbia are ready to carry the flame with pride during Day 4 of the relay's 10-day inspirational journey, Mary McNeil, Minister of State for the Olympics and ActNow BC, announced today.

"The spirit and enthusiasm for our athletes and the first ever Paralympic Winter Games in Canada, has been amazing - from the response to our public torchbearer contest to the individuals chosen to carry the flame," said McNeil. "The Province is honoured to be a supporting partner in the Paralympic Torch Relay and we are proud to highlight this momentous event through the people that will make it come to life."

"I extend the warmest congratulations to everyone who has the honour of carrying the flame," said Oak Bay-Gordon Head MLA Ida Chong. "I admire the torchbearers for their dedication to their community and I look forward to cheering them on during this truly historical event."

From November 2009 to January 2010, the Province organized a national contest as part of the Paralympic Torch Relay's public torchbearer application program. The contest provided an opportunity for Canadians to be part of the experience and support the ideals of the Paralympic movement: courage, determination, inspiration and equality. The contest was a huge success with a large volume of entries and many inspiring stories submitted.

The torchbearers involved in tomorrow's segment include Mark Macey, a random-draw winner of the Province's contest, and Neil and Scott Mavridis, provincially-nominated torchbearers.

Mark Macey, who drives a school bus, submitted his application because he wanted to share the honour with the students and encourage them to follow their own goals. With seven children of his own, Macey will carry the Paralympic Flame with the intention of sharing his dream with the Victoria community, showcasing how it can improve lives and inspire others to dream.

Neil and Scott are exceptional young men who have overcome many obstacles in their lives. Born with Down syndrome at two months premature, both struggled early in life but never quit. Constantly moving forward and proving many people wrong, these brothers have taught their mother and the people of their community, that you can accomplish anything if you are determined and given the opportunity.

The Paralympic Torch Relay takes place March 3-12, 2010. The 2010 Paralympic Flame will open the Paralympic Winter Games on March 12, after being part of a 24-hour event in downtown Vancouver. Approximately 1,000 athletes and officials from over 40 countries are expected to take part in the Paralympic Winter Games, concluding on March 21, 2010.

Earlier this year, the Province provided Victoria and Esquimalt with $34,975, through the Paralympic Torch Relay Community Grant Program, to support tomorrow's celebrations.

Additional information about the contest and the contest winners can be found at www.yougottabehere.ca.

For more information about the Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Torch Relay and the communities involved, please visit: www.vancouver2010.com.

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