Games Mascots Unveiled

NOTE: A social media version of this release with downloadable hi-res photos and a video clip will be available later today, Nov. 19, at http://gov.ns.ca/news/smr/2009-11-19-mascots.asp .

They're cool, they're sporty, and they'll be getting kids excited about the Canada Winter Games. Anni and Sammi, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, were unveiled today, Nov. 19, as official mascots of the Halifax 2011 Canada Games.

Anni, short for Angelique, and Sammi, short for Samuel, are brother and sister and were named by students at Ecole Beaubassin, in Bedford and École Bois-Joli, in Dartmouth. The names apply in both English and French and represent the bilingual nature of the Canada Games.

The Nova Scotia Duck Toller is Nova Scotia's official provincial dog, and is celebrated for its athletic prowess, intelligence, and its good nature and determination - all attributes that fit the spirit of the Canada Games.

"People will remember our mascots long after the Games are over," said Games chairman Jean-Paul Deveau. "Kids love Anni and Sammi, and they represent what the Halifax 2011 Games will be all about. Plus, aside from my golden retriever, Miko, they're the coolest dogs I know."

Anni and Sammi will make their way across the province, attending events and celebrations, entertaining people young and old, getting kids active, and building sprit and support for the Games.

Kids can find a list of Anni and Sammi's "play dates" by visiting annisammi2011.ca, where they will also learn about Halifax, Nova Scotia, and the Canada Games. Kids can also become card-carrying members of Anni and Sammi's kennel club, and play online games such as snowboarding and snowball fight.

The 2011 Canada Winter Games will be the largest multi-sport event in Halifax's history and the city's first Canada Winter Games. More than 2,700 athletes will come to compete in over 20 sports, attracting thousands of visitors, VIPs, officials and media.

Beyond the impact on the sporting community, the Games are expected to create about $80 million in economic spinoffs for the local economy.

More information on the Games can be found at www.canadagames2011.ca .