Congratulations to Prince Edward Island biathlete, Mark Arendz, on capturing his first World Cup gold, says Health and Wellness Minister Carolyn Bertram.
“Mark is an outstanding athlete and a tremendous representative for our province,” said Minister Bertram. “Congratulations to Mark, his family and his coaches on this accomplishment, and best wishes as you continue your 2011 competitions.”
Mark Arendz of Springton, PEI, shot clean and captured his first IPC World Cup victory at Sunday’s biathlon individual race in Vuokatti, Finland. He won the gold medal with a time of 39 minutes, 35.9 seconds. This was the third medal of the week for the 20-year-old; he also won silver in the biathlon sprint and bronze in the pursuit races.
“As a 2010 Paralympian and now a World Cup gold medalist, Mark continues to challenge himself as an athlete and as a competitor,” said Minister Bertram. “Mark is an inspiration to us all; he is an extremely talented athlete who shows true determination and fortitude in every situation.
The Department of Health and Wellness has supported Mark in his athletic endeavours, and continues to support sport and recreation opportunities for all individuals with a physical disability on Prince Edward Island through an annual funding grant provided to ParaSport and Recreation PEI. For more information on their programs, visit www.parasportpei.ca