Whitehorse: With the opening of the 2012 Arctic Winter Games in Whitehorse just days away, Yukon Liberal Interim Leader Darius Elias made a statement to welcome all of the visiting Arctic delegations, encourage all participants, and to cheer on Team Yukon’s athletes.

“On behalf of the Yukon Liberal Caucus, we’d like to welcome all athletes, officials, coaches, dignitaries, volunteers, and visitors to the 2012 Arctic Winter Games in Whitehorse,” said Elias. “The Arctic Winter Games is a proud tradition, uniting representatives from the circumpolar world through the passion, endurance and teamwork of sport and allowing us to showcase our vibrant living cultures throughout the Arctic. The Games bring out the best in everyone, providing all of our solid citizens and future leaders with a sense of camaraderie and allowing them to forge lasting friendships.”

Elias has participated in the Arctic Winter Games since 1986 and said that he understands firsthand the value of sport and the positive influence that it can have on individuals and in bringing communities together.

“It is an honour to have the 2012 Arctic Winter Games hosted in the Yukon this year,” continued Elias. “Good luck to all participants, and to those visiting, welcome to our beautiful territory. We hope that you have fun, do your best, and enjoy the spirit of the Games.”

“And to all our Yukon athletes, I’ll be cheering for you,” said Elias with a smile. “I highly encourage all Yukoners to come out and participate in this incredible event, and to support Team Yukon. Go Yukon, go!”

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For additional information contact:

Blake Rogers 667-8942