Government of Canada Funds Grand Prix de Trois-Rivieres

TROIS-RIVIERES, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - July 14, 2011) - Acting on behalf of the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, Jacques Gourde, Member of Parliament for Lotbinière–Chutes-de-la-Chaudière, today announced the awarding of $225,000 in non-repayable financial assistance to Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières (GP3R) Inc. for the promotion of the race's 2011 edition on markets outside Quebec.

"The Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières, whose reputation extends well beyond the boundaries of Quebec, has become an essential stop along the car racing circuit for fans from all over. The Government of Canada is therefore proud to support this major sporting event, which helps shine the spotlight on the beautiful Mauricie region," explained Jacques Gourde.

The 42nd Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières will take place this coming August 5, 6 and 7. The event will feature eleven car races, including the Firestone Indy Lights, back after a thirteen-year hiatus.

This funding from the Government of Canada has been granted through Canada Economic Development's Community Diversification program, an initiative whose objectives include supporting tourism development in Quebec's regions. The Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières produces considerable economic spinoffs for the region every year; in 2009 alone, the event generated some $17 million in direct benefits. Each annual edition also draws so many tourists to the area that all local lodging facilities are booked to full capacity.

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