Mr. Speaker, today, Quebec sprinter Bruny Surin will receive the Maurice Richard award.
This award for excellence was created in 1979 by Montreal's Société Saint-Jean-Baptiste and is given to an athlete who is an honour both to his or her sport and to Quebec.
Recognized for his integrity, determination, courage and perseverance, Bruny Surin is one of Quebec's great sports figures. He has run the second fastest 100 metre dash in history, and he is a true inspiration and model for all young people.
The Bloc Quebecois congratulates this great athlete, not only for his outstanding performances, but also for persevering in a sport he loves, sometimes against all odds, through the good years as well as the more difficult ones.
Bruny, our hearts will be beating for you when we watch you race in the Sydney Olympic Games. Congratulations and good luck in the pursuit of your brilliant career.