News release

Province Wishes Good Luck to Olympic Athlete

Nova Scotia Health Promotion (May 2005 - Feb. 2006)

Nova Scotia's only Olympic athlete, Sarah Conrad of Dartmouth, was given a send-off at her former high school today, Jan. 31, the day before she heads off to the Olympic Games in Torino, Italy, Feb. 10 to 26 to compete in snowboarding.

Health Minister Angus MacIsaac, on behalf of Health Promotion Minister Rodney MacDonald, recognized Sarah's achievement and wished her luck at Prince Andrew High School. Sarah, while attending high school, participated on the snowboarding team where she was coached by her mother Ginny.

"Sarah is an excellent example of how hard work, dedication and a strong support system can make dreams come true," said Mr. MacIsaac. "The entire province is proud of Sarah and we wish her all the best as she represents our country at the Olympic Winter Games."

Sarah, who is 20 years old, began snowboarding when she was 13 and has been passionate about the sport ever since. Sarah has been training with the national team for the past three years and is excited about her Olympic experience.

After qualifying for the 2006 Olympic Winter Games Sarah has been focussed on training.

"I am so excited to be heading to Torino to represent Canada," she said.

Mr. MacIsaac presented Sarah with a letter from the premier and Mr. MacDonald and a snowboarding helmet signed by the premier, Mr. MacDonald and himself. The presentation took place in front of Sarah's friends, family, various members of the provincial sport community, the current Prince Andrew High School snowboarding team, her sponsors, and the high school principal, Donna MacKenzie.