International Olympic Committee member Paul Henderson of Canada is so upset that funding for high-performance athletes by the Canadian government is dependent on whether or not Vancouver wins the bid to host the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, that he threatened to snub any federal politician attending the 2004 Summer Olympic Games in Athens.
Henderson said he is refusing to be seen with federal politicians in Vancouver during the IOC’s inspection visit next month and he won’t use his influence in sailing circles to help Canadian politicians in and around Athens.
Henderson added, “this is a disgrace. Time to stand up and be counted. I have informed Vancouver that I will not be available for any photo ops with any federal politicians or Sport Canada employee during the IOC evaluation commission. Since the Feds do not care anyway this should in no way bother them but it does me.
“Nor will I arrange for any Canadian government official to have VIP treatment in Athens to see the Canadian sailors race… They can buy tickets on the Fishing Charter Boats”.
Paul DeVillers, secretary of state for amateur sport, said he was surprised at the announcement by Canada’s finance minister but added he would work immediately toward removing the condition.
Finance Minister John Manley said Thursday Ottawa will consider overturning the contingency.
