The B.C. government is extending congratulations to Olympic open water marathon swimmer Richard Weinberger for winning Canada's first-ever medal in the event at the London Games.

Weinberger won the bronze in the 10-kilometre swim with a time of one hour and 50:00:03 minutes. His time was five seconds behind gold medallist Oussama Mellouli of Tunisia. Thomas Lurz of Germany won silver. Mellouli also medalled in Saturday's 1,500-metre freestyle, claiming bronze behind Victoria's Ryan Cochrane who won silver.

Today's race took place in the Serpentine River in Hyde Park, London.

Born in Moose Jaw, Sask., Weinberger trains in Victoria but has also lived in Surrey and Vernon. The bronze performance was his Olympic debut.

Weinberger's bronze medal win in London is Canada's 17th medal of the Games and 11th bronze. It is B.C.'s ninth medal overall and sixth bronze.

Quote:

Ida Chong, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

"I want to offer my warmest congratulations on behalf of the government of British Columbia to Richard Weinberger. His performance today in the gruelling open water marathon swim has wowed us all; especially considering this is his first Olympic appearance. His commitment to his sport and his sheer athleticism are inspiring. Bravo!"

Quick Facts:

• Date of birth: June 7, 1990.
• Born in Moose Jaw, Sask.
• Height 6 ft., 1 in./187cm; weight 159 lbs./72 kg.
• Learned to swim at age of five while living in Saudi Arabia.
• In 2009, Weinberger won the 10-kilometre open water race at the Canada Games in P.E.I.
• 13th at the 2010 World Open Water championships in Roberval, Que.
• 1st at 2011 London 10-kilometre Marathon Swimming Invitational.

Learn More:

London 2012: http://www.london2012.com/swimming/
Canadian Olympic Team: http://olympic.ca/team-canada/richard-weinberger

Contact:

Jeff Rud
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 953-3677
250 208-4028 (cell)