Premier Pat Binns and Minister responsible for Sport, Elmer MacFadyen today offered congratulations and best wishes to Kara Grant on her upcoming trip to Athens Greece to compete in the 2004 Olympic Games.
“Kara has represented Prince Edward Island in pentathlete competitions around the world, and she has always been a wonderful ambassador and role model,” said Premier Pat Binns. “It is my pleasure to wish Kara the very best as she competes in one of the worlds most prominent athletic competitions. I am sure that all Islanders will join me in cheering for Kara as she represents Canada and Prince Edward Island in Athens.”
Raised in Stratford, Kara began her career as a pentathlete in 1996 by winning the Junior National title. Kara is four-time Canadian National Champion. She is also the winner of numerous national and international events including two Pan American Championships. Kara has represented Prince Edward Island and Canada at pentathlon events around the world. Kara met all of the requirements to join the Canadian Team by capturing the Canadian Championship in Alberta on July 3.
“Kara’s achievements demonstrate that through hard work and dedication, dreams to participate in the Olympic Games are possible,” said Minister MacFadyen. “Kara is a wonderful role model for young girls and women in sport and we wish her a successful competition.”
Women’s modern pentathlon was added to the Olympic program in 2000. At the Olympic Games in Athens, 32 men and 32 women will vie for Olympic gold.
The pentathlon consists of five disciplines: pistol shooting, fencing, swimming, horse jumping, and running. The competition final takes place over a one-day period in the above stated order. The pentathlon demands a unique combination of strength, technical ability and mental focus.
The women’s pentathlon competition runs August 27, 2004 at the Olympic Modern Pentathlon Centre in Athens, Greece.