The B.C. government is extending its warmest congratulations to the Canadian men's wheelchair basketball team for its gold medal win this weekend, announced Bill Bennett, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.

The team, which features two B.C. athletes, competed against Australia in the final, winning the match 64 - 58 to capture gold. The U.S. defeated Great Britain 61- 46 in the bronze medal match.

Today's medal marks the seventh of the 2012 London Summer Paralympic Games and second gold for athletes who are either from B.C. or train here.

Quote:

Bill Bennett, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

"I know all British Columbians join me in congratulating the members of the Canadian men's wheelchair basketball team. We admire the personal commitment of each athlete, the coaches and each of the team officials. British Columbians understand what it takes to be successful in any endeavour in life. As the B.C. minister responsible for sport, and on behalf of my fellow citizens, well done!"

Quick Facts:

B.C. athletes on the men's wheelchair basketball team are:

• Robert (Bo) Hedges (Wonowon)
• Richard Peter (Vancouver/Duncan)

• Canada and Australia are historic rivals in wheelchair basketball. At the 2008 Beijing Games, Australia defeated Canada to win gold. At the 2004 Games in Athens, it was Canada that beat Australia for the gold medal.
• Canada defeated the Netherlands for the gold medal at the 2000 Sydney Games.
• Coach: Jerry Tonello

Learn More:

London 2012: http://www.london2012.com/paralympics/

Canadian Paralympic Committee: http://paralympic.ca/

Contact:

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