February 13, 2014 – Sport Yukon is distributing Arctic Winter Games legacy funding to recipients of the first intake, Sport Yukon president and president of the 2012 Arctic Winter Games, George Arcand announced today.

Yukon successfully hosted the 2012 games and also delivered them under budget, resulting in a $500,000 Arctic Winter Games legacy fund. A portion of the funding was open to Yukon sport governing bodies last fall and another application process is planned for this fall.

“We were pleased to see that twenty five Yukon sport governing bodies submitted applications for, and received, legacy funding. The projects applied for speak well of the health, growth and sustainability of Yukon sport and recreation groups.” Sport Yukon president George Arcand said.

Each sport governing body is eligible to apply for up to $20,000.

To ensure the funds are distributed in a way that represents the values of the Arctic Winter Games, the 2012 host society formed a legacy committee to develop an allocation plan. The plan recommended that the funding should fall under three categories: five per cent for archival/physical, 20 per cent for the arts and culture sector, and 75 per cent for sport development.

In March 2012, Whitehorse hosted over 2,000 athletes, coaches, and artists. Through the exemplary work of a very dedicated group of volunteers and staff, the games were described as a tremendous success.

“We can be proud that Yukon hosted a very memorable and successful 2012 Arctic Winter Games,” Minister of Community Services Brad Cathers said. “Good fiscal management resulted in a significant legacy fund that will be put to good use by groups and projects that represent the spirit of sport and contribute to an active and healthy lifestyle for Yukoners.”