Team PEI returned from the Canada Winter Games after achieving the best showing ever for the province. During the two-week competition in Bathurst-Campbellton, NB, Team PEI athletes won eight medals – the most ever for PEI at a Canada Winter Games.
"All Islanders are excited and proud of Team PEI and their tremendous efforts at the Canada Winter Games. Team PEI has demonstrated once again that our athletes can successfully compete against the best athletes in Canada," said Premier Pat Binns. "I would like to thank the families, coaches and mission staff whose support made it possible for all the athletes to compete at the high level of the Canada Games."
"I am extremely proud of our athletes, coaches and mission staff," said Minister MacFadyen. "The achievements of Team PEI are a testament to the hard work and dedication of athletes, coaches, mission staff and parents in the development of the sport community across the province."
The breakdown of the medal count includes three silver medals and five bronze medals. All three silver medals were won in the Judo competition along with two bronze. The other three bronze medals were won in fencing, boxing and gymnastics. The five Judo medals all came on the same day, which is an Island record for medals won on a single day of competition.
Another honour for the Island team was the Jack Pelech Award, which is awarded at the closing ceremonies. This prestigious award is presented to the province that best demonstrates sportsmanship, fair play, and friendship, along with best combined team performance at the games. PEI previously won the Jack Pelech Award when the winter games were last hosted in Prince Edward Island in 1991.
Also coming home with the PEI team is the prestigious President's Pin, awarded to Amanda Bulman for stopping to help an injured competitor during a cross-country ski race. In doing so, Amanda exhibited the true spirit of sportsmanship by putting the health and safety of a fellow competitor before her own goals of competing in the race.
The Government of Prince Edward Island is pleased to congratulate all members of Team PEI on a tremendous competition.