Prime Minister Stephen Harper congratulates Maëlle Ricker on Olympic Gold Medal

February 16, 2010

Prime Minister Stephen Harper today congratulated Maëlle Ricker, whose exceptional performance today in the ladies’ snowboard cross event was rewarded with a gold medal at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.

“I would like to congratulate Maëlle Ricker, on winning a gold medal at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games,” said the Prime Minister.  “This is a major achievement and demonstrates exceptional effort and dedication.”
 
Ms. Ricker was born in North Vancouver and currently resides in Squamish, British Columbia.  This is her first medal in her third Olympic Games.  She is the winner of 20 World Cup medals in snowboard cross, including ten victories.  She has competed in six World Championships, earning a bronze medal in snowboard cross in 2005.
 
The 2010 Olympic Winter Games are being held from February 12 to 28.  Canada will be represented by more than 200 athletes who will compete in a 15-sport competition schedule at nine venues in Vancouver, Richmond and Whistler.  More than 5500 athletes, coaches and team officials from more than 80 countries are participating in these Olympic Games.