May 3, 2005 - Gauthier Commits to Family

MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release – May 3, 2005

Gauthier Commits to Family

Winnipeg, MB – Due to family commitments and the challenges and opportunities of being a single parent, Cathy Gauthier, lead of the 2005 Canadian Women’s Curling Championship team has decided to relinquish her position on Team Canada and will not compete in the 2005–2006 season.

Gauthier, who is a three-time Canadian Scott Tournament of Hearts Champion and Manitoba Curling Hall of Fame Inductee, made the decision in order to spend more time with her two children.

“Over the years, I have always had amazing support from my parents, family, friends and ex-husband and I thank them.  However, due to the reality of joint custody and the need for flexibility to meet the demands of this curling season, there was significant uncertainty whether I would be able to parent my children when not competing – it was a risk I was not willing to take.” said Gauthier, adding, “While the Olympics have always been my dream, and a 7th Scott Tournament of Hearts would have been a gift, my children are my life and they will always take priority.”

The remaining members of Team Canada, Jill Officer, Cathy Overton-Clapham and skip Jennifer Jones wish Cathy all the best and are supportive and understanding of her decision.

“Cathy is very passionate about curling and we can only imagine how difficult this is for her,” said Jones.  “But we understand her priorities and are very supportive of her decision.”

Gauthier won the Canadian Scott Tournament of Hearts in 1992, 1995 and 2005 and is a World Silver and Bronze medallist.

“Cathy brought a lot of experience and talent to the team,” said Cathy Overton-Clapham.  “She will be missed.”

 “Cathy’s sense of humour and quick wit provided a lot of laughs for the team,” said Officer.  “Her comic relief will be hard to replace.”

Gauthier wishes the team the best and will remain a supporter and fan of the team.

Team Canada is currently training for the Canadian Olympic Curling Trials to take place in December and the 2006 Scott Tournament of Hearts.  Team Canada will announce a replacement player in the near future.