OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Jan 6, 2014) - Their Excellencies the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, and Mrs. Sharon Johnston will be joined by athletes and Skate Canada representatives to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Figure Skating Championships and to announce Their Excellencies' patronage of the event, on Wednesday, January 8, 2014, at 10:30 a.m., at Rideau Hall.

On this occasion, His Excellency will deliver opening remarks about the significant links between governors general and skating traditions in Canada. Joannie Rochette, will talk about her role as the athlete ambassador for this year's championships, as well as her experiences as an Olympian and as a competitive figure skater. Leanna Caron, President of Skate Canada, will provide details on Their Excellencies' participation in the 2014 Canadian Tire National Skating Championships, being held in Ottawa, from January 9 to 15, 2014.

Marking 100 years of champions, the Rideau Hall event will bring together top Canadian figure skaters, including Olympic silver medallist Elizabeth Manley, and seven-time Canadian champion and Olympic silver medallist Elvis Stojko.

The celebration will conclude with the premiere figure skating performance of Canada Skates: 100 Years of Champions choreographed by Canadian and world champion and Olympic bronze medallist Jeffrey Buttle, on Rideau Hall's historic outdoor rink (weather permitting).

About Skate Canada

Skate Canada, the national governing body responsible for the development and administration of skating in Canada, is the largest figure skating association in the world. With over 5 000 registered coaches, skating programs for athletes of all ages are offered at nearly 1 300 skating clubs and schools across the country. Skate Canada is an association dedicated to providing every Canadian with the opportunity to learn life skills while experiencing the power, strength and creativity of one of Canada's premier sports. For more information on Skate Canada or the 2014 Canadian Tire National Skating Championships, visit www.skatecanada.ca.

Media representatives wishing to cover this event must confirm their attendance in advance with Marie-Pierre Bélanger, and arrive on-site no later than 10:15 a.m. on the day of the event. Media identification cards must be worn at all times.

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