May 16, 2005 - Former Olympian Joins Team Canada

MEDIA RELEASE

For Immediate Release - May 16, 2005

Former Olympian Joins Team Canada

Winnipeg, MB - Olympic Bronze medallist and two-time World Champion Georgina Wheatcroft will fill the lead position for the reigning Canadian Women’s Curling Champions.

"I am thrilled to join Team Canada," said Wheatcroft. "I respect these girls as players and I am looking forward to a fantastic opportunity."

Wheatcroft steps in after former lead Cathy Gauthier made the tough decision to relinquish her position on Team Canada due to family commitments.  The remaining members of Team Canada, Jill Officer, Cathy Overton-Clapham and Skip, Jennifer Jones were left with the challenge of finding a player.

Wheatcroft brings a significant amount of experience having competed at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Utah and winning the bronze medal.  Wheatcroft also won the Women’s World Curling Championships in 1987 and 2000.

"Georgina will be an incredible addition to the team," said Jones.  "She has such a wealth of talent and experience and we are just thrilled that she agreed join the team."

Team Canada would also like to announce the addition of Janet Arnott as coach.  Arnott is the 1984 Women’s World Champion and is a three-time Canadian Scott Tournament of Hearts Champion. 

"Janet will bring a significant amount of knowledge to the team," said Overton-Clapham.  "We know she will do an amazing job."