Mr. Speaker, as of January 9, Quebec boasts the new women's Canadian figure skating champion. Fifteen-year-old Cynthia Phaneuf, from Contrecoeur, gave a dazzling performance in Edmonton to dethrone six time champion Jennifer Robinson, from Ontario, and take the crown.
A person's dreams can come true at any age, and we know that Cynthia's success is due to more than just luck. Her many hours of practice and her constant efforts over a decade have a lot to do with it.
Heroes can be any age. Throughout history, they have achieved immortal glory in their own way. All peoples and all communities need a hero to act as their model and source of inspiration for their lives. Cynthia, you will provide very tangible inspiration to the thousands of young Quebeckers who regularly lace up their skates and glide off down the ice to glory.
Speaking personally, and on behalf of all hon. members, I would like to offer warmest congratulations to our champion. Bravo, Cynthia. I am sure that you will be a shining star in figure skating for a long time to come.