Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, it is indeed my pleasure to be back here in this chamber with you and the rest of my esteemed colleagues. Mr. Speaker, while this may be the first day of our session, I'm going to be flying home to Hay River tonight so that I can attend the opening ceremonies of the 2003 NWT Track and Field Championships. The championships will be held tomorrow and Friday, June 5th and 6th, and promises it to be a fantastic event.
Mr. Speaker, this is the 13th year that Hay River has hosted this event that showcases athletes from all around the Northwest Territories. Right from the start of the opening ceremonies, Mr. Speaker, to the moment that the flame is extinguished to signify the end of the championships, it is wonderful to see the look of pride on the athletes' faces as they represent their respective school and communities. Mr. Speaker, the spirit and enthusiasm, camaraderie and sportsmanship shown by these kids is truly something to behold.
I continue, Mr. Speaker, to be in awe of the logistics involved in organizing such a large event. Last year there were approximately 1200 athletes and coaches involved. Mr. Speaker, an event of this magnitude would not be possible without a tremendous amount of volunteers. Volunteers are the engine that drive events such as this. Every year at this time, Hay River showcases its volunteer drive engine by hosting such events as the NWT Track and Field Championships and the Knights of Columbus Lobster Fest. Combined, these two events require the dedicated, hard work of some 350 volunteers. Mr. Speaker, time does not permit me today to list all of the volunteers from Hay River who help to make the NWT Track and Field Championships such a success year after year. I would like to collectively thank all of our volunteers and the business community of Hay River who always step up to the plate to ensure this event is an overwhelming success.
Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like to thank the coordinators, Gordon Miller and Tim Borchuk, all the success possible in this year's track and field championships. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause