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                                <title><![CDATA[PPN Source | Sports and leisure]]></title>
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                                <description>Find the press releases from the Sports and Leisure sector broadcasted by PPN Source.</description>
                                <language>en</language>
                                <updated>2026-06-09T11:00:00+00:00</updated>
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            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
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                                    <updated>2026-06-09T11:00:00+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Quebec hosts three major Scrabble championships.]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<h2>Québec, May 11, 2026 -<strong>The Quebec Federation of Francophone Scrabble Clubs (FQCSF)</strong> is proud to announce an exceptional program for the 2026 season. From May to July, the best players from Quebec and the international French-speaking community will compete in three major competitions in Quebec before heading to the World Championships in Tunisia. Nearly 1000 participants and volunteers are expected for these four events where mental agility and vocabulary richness will be highlighted.</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Three Major Events in Quebec</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Quebec Duplicate Scrabble Championship (May 15-18, Granby):</strong> For its 44th edition, over 350 players will vie for the podium in six classes. Notable figures like Francis Desjardins, Germain Boulianne, and François Bédard, who together have around thirty titles, will compete aiming for perfect games. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://bit.ly/4tqFXvy">CdQ-Duplicate Brochure</a></li><li><strong>Quebec Classic Scrabble Championship (June 12-14, Beaupré):</strong> This 18th edition emphasizes the traditional gameplay mode. Given that the vast majority of Quebec players practice the classic mode, FQCSF takes this opportunity to invite the general public to discover, join, or even start an official club in their region. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://bit.ly/4ndF3AW">CdQ-Classique Brochure</a></li><li><strong>Rimouski International Festival (June 26 - July 1, Rimouski):</strong> As a prestigious event on the international circuit, this 8th edition offers 5 competitions in 6 days. Combining "Scrabble holidays" and high-level competition, the festival will host the Quebec elite as well as European and African delegations. <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://bit.ly/3QRVAOP">FISR Brochure</a></li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Heading towards Tunisia and the Future</strong></p><p>The summer will culminate with the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://bit.ly/4dpETD5"><strong>54th French Scrabble World Championships</strong></a> in Tunis, from July 18-26, 2026. A delegation of around thirty Quebecois, including twenty elite players, will compete against the best representatives from the global Francophone community.</p><p>Quebec is already confirming its role as a global leader by preparing to host the 58th World Championships in <strong>2030</strong>, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of FQCSF.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Quote</strong></p><p>"Scrabble is an exciting mental sport that combines cognitive development and socialization. It is an intergenerational hobby accessible to all, allowing individuals to surpass themselves while learning. In clubs, it promotes motivation, learning, and becomes a real human adventure."&nbsp;<br>— <strong>Mr. Pierre Bergeron, President of FQCSF</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Highlights</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Visibility:</strong> Over 1,000 competitors mobilized in Granby, Beaupré, Rimouski, and Tunis.</li><li><strong>Excellence:</strong> Top players achieve near perfection with success rates of 97% to 100%.</li><li><strong>Inclusivity:</strong> A game played from 10 to 104 years old, in person or virtually, in duplicate and classic modes.</li><li><strong>Strength of the network:</strong> FQCSF brings together 1,600 passionate members through 62 clubs across Quebec. To find a club near you, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://fqcsf.qc.ca/clubs">click here</a>.</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Source and Information:</strong><br>Pierre Bergeron, President of FQCSF<br>Phone: +1 (418) 657-6953<br>Email: pierre.bergeron@fqcsf.qc.ca<br>Websites: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://www.fqcsf.qc.ca">www.fqcsf.qc.ca</a> | <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="http://www.fisf.net">www.fisf.net</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Available for Interviews (by phone or in person).</strong><br><i>Regional spokespersons available upon request.</i></p>]]>
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                                    <updated>2026-05-11T12:15:00+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Communiqué - A Quebecer with the Bleuettes: Roxanne Bolduc with France in the 1st round of qualifications for the U19 Euro soccer.]]></title>
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            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<p><strong>Valencia (Spain), December 10, 2025</strong> – French-Québécois defender Roxanne Bolduc (17 years old) experienced a perfect first phase of qualification with the French U19 women's team: three matches, three victories. Starting in two out of the three games played in Cardiff (Wales), the player from the south shore of Montreal contributed to the flawless performance of the team against Turkey, Finland, and Wales.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>These three victories allow France to finish first in its group and qualify for Qualifying Round 2 of Euro 2026. The draw for Round 2 (League A and League B) will take place on December 11, 2025, at the UEFA headquarters in Nyon. This was <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/fr/medias/communique-roxanne-bolduc-joueuse-franco-quebecoise-selectionnee-en-equipe-de-france-feminine-u19-pour-la-double-confrontation-amicale-face-a-lespagne">Roxanne Bolduc's second selection with the U19 team</a>, following her debut in October during the two friendly matches against Spain, the defending champion.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>“Every time I hear the national anthem, I realize the privilege I have to wear this jersey. The group of girls and coaches is amazing. There is so much talent among my teammates. I believe I have never seen such a close-knit team, both on and off the field. This is the second camp we have spent together after the one in October: it's perfect for getting to know each other better. About my performance, I know I can do even better and correct some things. I'm already working on it since my return to Villarreal. There are always sequences we'd like to relive, that's part of sports. The most important thing is the collective result, and these three victories were wonderful to experience.” <strong>– Roxanne Bolduc</strong></i></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Profile and Journey of Roxanne Bolduc</strong><br>Born on December 24, 2007, in Saint-Hyacinthe (Quebec, Canada), Roxanne Bolduc holds dual Canadian and French nationality. Now living in Spain with her family since 2021, she is playing this season with Villarreal CF, with whom she has a contract for the next two years. At just 17 years old, switching between the first team and the reserve team of Las Groguetes, she is considered a young talent of European soccer in her position.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Originally trained in Quebec from the age of 5 (Vallee du Richelieu Soccer Club, ARSRY Richelieu-Yamaska, AS Montis, Ascalon St-Georges), she moved to Spain at the age of 13 and played for the following teams:</p><ul><li>2021-2022: CFF Maritim</li><li>2022-2024: Levante UD</li><li>2024-2025: Valencia CF</li><li>Since 2025: Villarreal CF</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>First Selection with the National Team</strong><br>Roxanne Bolduc received her first call-up to the French U17 team in September 2023. In a friendly match in Northern Ireland, she played 90 minutes in a 2-0 victory against the host country in Belfast.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Website: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://roxannebolduc.football">https://roxannebolduc.football</a><br>Representation Agency: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.instagram.com/wassermanfootball/">Wasserman Football</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Contact:</strong><br>Ingrid Bourgeois<br>(Quebec) 450 536-3419<br>(France) 07 49 23 91 10<br><a href="mailto:infos@bolle.ca">infos@bolle.ca</a></p>]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2025-12-10T11:00:36+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
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                                    <updated>2025-10-15T21:51:22+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[SPORTSQUÉBEC grants the 61st Finale of the Quebec Games - Summer 2027 to the City of Saint-Georges.]]></title>
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            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<p><strong>Montreal, January 22, 2025</strong> - The Corporation SPORTSQUÉBEC is pleased to announce that the City of Saint-Georges has been selected to host the 61st Finale of the Jeux du Québec - Summer 2027. This will be the third time the City will have the privilege of hosting the event, having successfully organized the Jeux du Québec Finales during the winter edition of 1974 and the summer edition of 1979.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After several months of careful analysis, the selection process concluded on January 17, following the final presentations before the selection committee. The choice was difficult, demonstrating intense and healthy competition between the two candidate areas. Following the conclusion of the process, the Corporation wishes to thank the City of Sorel-Tracy for its journey, evolving at each stage. With the municipality's development vision, SPORTSQUÉBEC acknowledges its capacity to host a Jeux du Québec Finale.&nbsp;</p>]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2025-01-22T17:00:34+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Soccer - Quebecer Roxanne Bolduc called up for selection with the vice-champions of Spain U17.]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Valencia, Spain, October 25, 2022 - Former CSVR, AS Montis and Ascalon Saint-Georges player Roxanne Bolduc is climbing the soccer ladder in Spain. 

In her second season in Valencia, the young 14-year-old player who is playing this year with the club Levante UD has been called up by the Valencian Community federation with the Valenta U17 selection, vice-champion of Spain.]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2022-10-25T10:00:06+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Press release: A Well-deserved 8th Place Finish for Raphael Lessard at Kansas Speedway - NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS)]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<p><strong>Kansas City&nbsp;(United States), May 2nd, 2021&nbsp;</strong>– A few laps after starting 15th on the grid at Kansas Speedway Saturday night, Raphael Lessard quickly realized that his #24&nbsp;<strong>Canac</strong>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<strong>Quincaillerie</strong>&nbsp;<strong>Richelieu</strong> Silverado understeered to the point of prematurely wearing out the right front tire so much that he was unable to keep up with the leaders. Raphael Lessard adapted his driving and fought his way back to the leaders after two long stops in the pits. His determination allowed the young Beauceron to make the most out of what he had and cross the finish line in eighth place.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>The Race from the Driver’s Seat&nbsp;</strong>(extracts)</p><p>"The race tonight&nbsp;(Saturday)&nbsp;was not easy for me as I struggled with the #24&nbsp;<strong>Canac</strong>&nbsp;|&nbsp;<strong>Quincaillerie</strong>&nbsp;<strong>Richelieu</strong> truck’s serious understeer throughout the race. The team made major set-up changes twice, but that did not fix the problem. The time lost working on the suspension during the end-of-segment pit stops dropped me to the back of the field but happily still on the lead lap. Over the last few laps, my right front tire was again used up. I tried to keep it as cool as possible for the last overtime restart and drove the last two laps "aggressively" to get the most out of what I had to work with. We are happy with eighth place under the circumstances,"&nbsp;said Raphael Lessard.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Date:&nbsp;</strong>Saturday May 1st, 2021</p><p><strong>Event:&nbsp;</strong>Wise Power 200</p><p><strong>Track:</strong>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.kansasspeedway.com/">Kansas Speedway</a>&nbsp;(Kansas, United States – 1.5-mile banked oval)</p><p><strong>Race format:&nbsp;</strong>Three stages of 30 | 30 | 74 laps</p><p><strong>Start | Result</strong>: 15th | 8th (140 in overtime of scheduled 134-lap race)</p><p><strong>Winner</strong>:&nbsp;Kyle Busch – KBM (Toyota)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>MEDIA CONTACT</strong>:</p><p><strong>Jessica Ménard,&nbsp;</strong>Les Équipes Caissie-Ménard inc.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Business Consultant, Raphael Lessard Racing&nbsp;</p><p>Mobile: 819.448.6514 – Email:&nbsp;</p><p><a href="mailto:jmenard@caissiemenard.com">jmenard@caissiemenard.com</a></p>]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2021-05-02T14:04:45+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Successful start for Raphael Lessard turns into a frustrating finish in Richmond - NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS)]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<p><strong>Richmond&nbsp;(Virginia, United States) – April 17, 2021 / PPN Source -</strong> Raphael Lessard is comfortable on relatively short oval tracks like Richmond Raceway. From fifth on the grid, everything was in place for a result at the front of the field, driving the #24&nbsp;<strong>Canac</strong>&nbsp;Silverado prepared by GMS Racing.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Raphael Lessard fought successfully in the top-5 over the first 50 laps of the race and in the top-10 during the first 180 laps, collecting precious bonus points in the first two segments by finishing both of them in 7th place. Following the caution period on lap 187, several incidents occurred: an error in the pits dropped Raphael Lessard to the middle of the field, and a driver he was trying to pass caused an incident that forced him to enter the pits in order to straighten the left side fenders. In the end, Raphael Lessard crossed the finish line in 23rd place.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>The Race As Seen by the Driver&nbsp;</strong>(extracts)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I was confident in my <strong>Canac</strong>&nbsp;truck at the start of the race. We believed that a top-5 or better finish was well within reach, especially with the great set-up the team was improving on during the stops. The truck was even running better and better in the longer segments.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>We stopped late in the race to fit new tires in anticipation of overtaking rivals who had stopped early. Everything was going well until a team mistake in the pits cost me positions. We started from 21st position and then a competitor damaged the left side of my truck. It was a frustrating end to the race,"&nbsp;said the unhappy driver of the #24&nbsp;<strong>Canac</strong>&nbsp;Silverado. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Date:&nbsp;</strong>Saturday, April 17, 2021 – 1:30 pm</p><p><strong>Event:&nbsp;</strong>Toyota Care 250</p><p><strong>Track :</strong>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.richmondraceway.com/">Richmond Raceway</a>&nbsp;(Virginia, United States – 0,75 mile oval)</p><p><strong>Fprmat:&nbsp;</strong>Three stages of 70 | 70 | 110 laps each</p><p><strong>Start | Result</strong>: 5th | 23rd&nbsp;(covered 249 of the 250-lap race)</p><p><strong>Winner</strong>:&nbsp; John Hunter Nemechek – Kyle Busch Motorsports&nbsp;(Toyota)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>MEDIA CONTACT</strong>:</p><p><strong>Jessica Ménard,&nbsp;</strong>Les Équipes Caissie-Ménard inc.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Business Consultant, Raphael Lessard Racing&nbsp;</p><p>Mobile: 819.448.6514 – Email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jmenard@caissiemenard.com">jmenard@caissiemenard.com</a>&nbsp;</p>]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2021-04-18T00:44:10+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Press release: Raphael Lessard - Fifth for the start at Richmond Raceway - NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS)]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<p><strong>Saint Joseph de Beauce&nbsp;(Quebec, Canada), April 14, 2021 - </strong>Raphael Lessard will take part in his sixth NCWTS race of the season this Saturday on the wide, nearly flat 0.75-mile oval at Richmond Raceway at the wheel of his #24&nbsp;<strong>CANAC</strong> Silverado. His performance and that of his GMS Racing team impressed everyone at Bristol, and Raphael Lessard is going for another podium finish this coming weekend. His performance on the Bristol dirt surface confirmed his ability to adapt and learn quickly, and demonstrated his level of professionalism after only one full season in a NASCAR series, and despite the odd circumstances imposed by the pandemic.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Raphael Lessard Racing team members are working to find the necessary financing to participate in all 22 races of the season.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We are well prepared for Richmond this weekend. This is my second race at this track, and the experience I gained over the 2020 season will allow me to drive faster and to quickly adapt my driving to the behaviour of my #24 Silverado&nbsp;<strong>CANAC</strong> truck over the race distance. The track surface is hard on the tires and I have to drive smoothly to protect them. I am comfortable on a short track like Richmond with its low banking in corners 1 and 2. The entrance to turn 3 is almost flat and you have to be careful when braking not to slide the rear tires, which wears them out too quickly. My&nbsp;<strong>CANAC</strong>&nbsp;truck will be fast and I'm sure it will be great for the race," says Raphael Lessard with enthusiasm.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Event:&nbsp;</strong>Toyota Care 250, race 6 of 22&nbsp;(250 laps in three segments of 70 | 70 | 110 laps – 187,5 miles)</p><p><strong>Track:</strong>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.richmondraceway.com/">Richmond Raceway</a>&nbsp;(Virginia, United States – 0.75 miles)</p><p><strong>Date | Live TV &amp; Radio:</strong>&nbsp;Saturday, April 17 at 1:30 pm (EDT) on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.rds.ca/"><strong>RDS</strong></a>, Fox Sports Racing, FS1, MRN and SiriusXM NASCAR 90</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>**RDS and RDS DIRECT digital network present every NCWTS race on the 2021 schedule.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>MEDIA CONTACT</strong>:</p><p><strong>Jessica Ménard,&nbsp;</strong>Les Équipes Caissie-Ménard inc.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Business Consultant, Raphael Lessard Racing &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Mobile: 819.448.6514 – Email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jmenard@caissiemenard.com">jmenard@caissiemenard.com</a>&nbsp;</p>]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2021-04-14T16:36:48+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Spectacular Drive Through the Pack by Raphael Lessard On the Bristol Dirt From 29th at the Start to a Podium Finish (3rd) - NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS)]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<p><strong>Bristol</strong>&nbsp;(Tennessee, United States), <strong>March 29, 2021 -</strong> Raphael Lessard put on quite a show in his first race on dirt today. The fifth round of the NCWTS Truck Series was run on the Bristol Motor Speedway oval which was covered with dirt just for the Pinty's Dirt Track Race. This race was highly anticipated by everyone, especially as rain forced NASCAR to postpone the event from Saturday to Sunday, then on to Monday. The field was unable to qualify on Saturday due to the weather, and Raphael Lessard started in 29th place as per NASCAR's calculation based on the team's results. From the first to the last lap, Raphael Lessard kept on overtaking his opponents, until placing his #24 GMS Racing Chevrolet Silverado on the podium at the finish.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Race Action</strong></p><p>After setting the fastest time in the first practice session on Friday (March 25), Raphael Lessard and his #24 GMS Racing Chevrolet Silverado set the 16th fastest time in the final practice session, on a track close to what the race would be run on. This was a promising lap time for a driver with no experience on this surface where the driving and suspension settings are totally different from those on asphalt in order to react effectively to the changing surface of the dirt track on every lap.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Starting from 29th on the grid for the Monday race, as per NASCAR's calculations based on the team's results, Raphael Lessard began his irrepressible march to the front of the race, marked by his 15th place on his first pit stop on lap 40 and by his 8th place on his second pit stop on lap 90. He then finished on the podium by tenaciously defending his third place which he had reached on lap 123 of the 150-lap event.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The GMS Racing team knew how to prepare an exceptional truck for Raphael Lessard, the same truck that had won on the dirt in 2019 in the hands of Stewart Friesen. The team gave their driver a truck with proven potential, and the driver made the team proud.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>The race as seen by the driver&nbsp;</strong>(extracts)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Third place and a first podium this year, I am happy. I was already feeling good with the quickest and then 16th time in Friday's two practice sessions with good dirt racers around me, like Kyle Larson and Chase Briscoe. I started the race from way back, but the quick drivers around me also wanted to move up to the front. I had to follow them, which I did in the race until they were eliminated, or I passed them.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Mud blocked my radiator at the start of the race and the engine temperature rose to over 300o F. The numerous yellow periods (at least 8) and the two pit stops allowed me to cool the engine down a bit. The team was able to add water and remove the dirt on the second stop, and the engine temperature returned to 220o F for the third stage. We were lucky because I thought the engine was going to fail.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"After the second stop, with the engine now healthy and with reasonable handling on the increasingly slippery track, we were in a good position to keep attacking. I worked with different lines and braking distribution to reduce the load on the right front tire so we didn't lose too much time in the last few laps. I managed to overtake other good drivers as I moved up to the leaders. The truck was losing grip in the corners and I worked hard to protect my position until the end of the race,"&nbsp;explained the driver of the&nbsp;#24 GMS Racing Chevrolet Silverado who was delighted with his stellar performance.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Next race – Richmond Raceway – April 17, 2021</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The NCWTS returns to normalcy for their next event, which will take place on the 0.75-mile oval of Richmond International Raceway&nbsp;(Virginia, United States).&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Date</strong>: Monday, March 29</p><p><strong>Event&nbsp;: </strong>Pinty’s Dirt Track Race</p><p><strong>Track:&nbsp;</strong><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.bristolmotorspeedway.com/">Bristol Motor Speedway</a>&nbsp;(Tennessee, United States – 0.5-mile oval)</p><p><strong>Format:&nbsp;</strong>Three stages of 40 | 50 | 60 laps</p><p><strong>Start | Finish</strong>: 29 | <strong>3</strong>&nbsp;(completed the 150-lap race)</p><p><strong>Race Winner</strong>:&nbsp; Martin Truex Jr. From the KBM team&nbsp;(Toyota)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>MEDIA CONTACT</strong>:</p><p><strong>Jessica Ménard,&nbsp;</strong>Les Équipes Caissie-Ménard inc.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Business Consultant, Raphael Lessard Racing &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>819.448.6514 – <a href="mailto:jmenard@caissiemenard.com">jmenard@caissiemenard.com</a>&nbsp;</p>]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2021-03-30T01:00:36+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Press release - Raphael Lessard On Dirt for the First Time In NASCAR At Bristol - NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS)]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<p><strong>Saint Joseph de Beauce</strong>&nbsp;(Quebec, Canada) – <strong>March 23, 2021</strong>. Raphael Lessard and his #24 <strong>GMS Racing</strong> Silverado are part of an unusual event this weekend: the "Pinty's Dirt Truck Race" run on the legendary high banks of the Bristol Motor Speedway oval in Tennessee. The track was covered with 23,000 cubic metres of dirt for the occasion, to create a unique spectacle for two prestigious NASCAR series&nbsp;(NCWTS and Cup).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Driving on dirt is quite different from driving on asphalt, where the track changes gradually over the course of the race with temperature variations and the build-up of oil and tire debris. On dirt, corner entry is usually a big slide to slow the car down. The loose track surface and the quick line changes on every lap, as holes, gullies, and piles of dirt develop on the outside of corners. The track can generate dust on dry dirt or become more slippery after being watered. The ideal trajectory changes throughout the race. All these variables complicate coming up with an effective race strategy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Preparation for these events began last week as some 1,400 drivers participated in races over this past weekend to get a feel for the track surface as well as help a good portion of the drivers who will race next weekend to discover and become familiar with the track surface. The NCWTS drivers will take part in two practice sessions on Friday and race in one of four qualifying heats on Saturday afternoon to determine the grid for the Saturday night main event. The extra practice and heat races will help drivers familiarize themselves with the track before setting off for 150 laps in an unfamiliar racing surface for many of them.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Raphael Lessard has spared no effort to prepare for his first professional race on clay.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"GMS Racing takes this race very seriously. I'll be driving the dirt-prepped truck that won the last NCWTS race run on dirt at Eldora Speedway (New Weston, Ohio) in 2019 with Stewart Friesen at the wheel. As far as my driving is concerned, we did some dirt testing last month in a "Modified 604" with about 400 hp, quite an introduction to dirt! Then, for the last two weeks, I have been driving a "Micro-Sprint", a small car that weighs almost nothing and runs very quickly with a 600-cc motorbike engine that spins at 15,000 rpm and surprised me with its performance. At the beginning, we ran with a big spoiler over the driver and then removed it on Monday, to better mimic the low downforce of the trucks on a rather slow track like on the dirt at Bristol. I was able to practice with the Chevrolet drivers like Kyle Larson and Alex Bowman and with other GMS Racing drivers, which was really good for me,"&nbsp;says Raphael Lessard with enthusiasm.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>The qualifying process</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The qualifying procedure promises action, as the accumulation of points over the four heat races will determine the grid positions for the main race. A random draw will start things off by determining grid positions for each heat race, and drivers will accumulate points in two ways:&nbsp;</p><ol><li>According to their position at the finish of their heat race, and</li><li>By earning one point for each position gained between their starting and finishing positions.</li></ol><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This method of determining the starting grid gives a fair result based on the performance of each driver and compensates for the bad luck of a driver forced by the draw to start at the back of the grid in his heat race. For example, a driver who starts last and wins a heat race with 10 starters earns 10 points for the win and 9 more for improving his position, for a total of 19 points. He would thus be almost guaranteed to start the main race on the front row or even on the pole.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Event:&nbsp;Pinty’s Dirt Track Race</strong>, race 4 of 22&nbsp;(150 laps – segment of 40 | 50 | 60 laps)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Track:</strong>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.bristolmotorspeedway.com/">Bristol Motor Speedway</a>&nbsp;(Tennessee, United States – 0.5-mile banked oval)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Date| TV:</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li><strong>Four qualifying heats,</strong>&nbsp;live on Saturday, March 27 from 4:30 pm on TSN and Fox Sports Racing</li><li><strong>Race,</strong> on Saturday, March 27 at 8:00 pm on&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.rds.ca/courses/nascar?utm_source=Direct&amp;utm_medium=Web&amp;utm_campaign=Optimisation-Menu"><strong>RDS</strong></a><strong>, </strong>Fox Sports Racing, FS1, MRN et SiriusXM NASCAR 90</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p>**&nbsp;RDS and the RDS DIRECT digital service present every NCWTS race on the 2021 schedule.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>MEDIA CONTACT:<br>Jessica Ménard, Les Équipes Caissie-Ménard inc.&nbsp;<br>Business Consultant, Raphael Lessard Racing &nbsp;<br>Mobile: 819.448.6514 – Email: jmenard@caissiemenard.com</p>]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2021-03-23T18:58:28+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Raphael Lessard Betrayed By A Mechanical Failure At Atlanta Motor Speedway - NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS)]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<p><strong>Atlanta</strong>&nbsp;(Georgia, United States) – <strong>March 20, 2021</strong>. Starting from the 23rd position, Raphael Lessard worked his way through the field in the No.24&nbsp;Richelieu Hardware&nbsp;Silverado, taking care of his tires in order to understand their high rate of wear on this track. Raphael Lessard was up to 11th position without any problem on lap 48 when he felt a vibration. He suspected a flat tire, a critical problem on a track where the cars reach almost 300 km/h. This situation forced him to go to the pits for tires and gas. Raphael Lessard came back on track having lost a few laps on the leader. On lap 115, the young Beauceron tells his team that the car was not running properly at all and he was forced to pit with no possibility to return to the track with six laps to go. The team determined later in the garages that the differential had failed.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>The Race From the Driver’s Seat</strong></p><p>“The truck was running great early in the race and throughout the first stage. I was able to run on the quicker inside line, something that I could not do in last year's truck. I was up to 11th place and really thought that I had a flat tire when the vibration started, and I first had to pit for a new set.&nbsp; The team then told me that the old tires were OK, but the vibration was still there and getting worse as the race wore on, and the car would not run at its normal full speed. Then, near the end of the race, I felt a big hit at the rear as the failed differential ended my race with a bang with only a few laps to go.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The team is always ready with a good truck, and we are due for a good result. Thanks to <strong>Richelieu Hardware</strong>&nbsp;for their help and we will see you at Bristol for the dirt race. I'm really looking forward to it,” explained the driver of the No.24&nbsp;Richelieu Hardware Silverado.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Date</strong>: Saturday, March 20</p><p><strong>Event:&nbsp;</strong>FR8 Auctions 200</p><p><strong>Track:</strong>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.atlantamotorspeedway.com/">Atlanta Motor Speedway</a>&nbsp;(Georgia, United-States – 1,54-mile trioval)</p><p><strong>Format:&nbsp;</strong>Three stages of<strong>&nbsp;</strong>30 |30 | 70 laps</p><p><strong>Start | Finish</strong>: 23 | 39 (completed 124 of the 130-lap race)</p><p><strong>Winner</strong>:&nbsp; Kyle Bush<strong>&nbsp;</strong>from<strong>&nbsp;</strong>Kyle Bush Motorsports (Toyota)</p><p><strong>Next Race – Bristol Motor Speedway – March 27, 2021&nbsp;</strong>(On dirt)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>MEDIA CONTACT</strong>:</p><p><strong>Jessica Ménard,&nbsp;</strong>Les Équipes Caissie-Ménard inc.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Business Consultant, Raphael Lessard Racing &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Mobile: 819.448.6514 – Email:&nbsp;</p><p><a href="mailto:jmenard@caissiemenard.com">jmenard@caissiemenard.com</a></p>]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2021-03-21T01:31:13+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[DIFFICULT RACE FOR RAPHAEL LESSARD AT LAS VEGAS NASCAR - Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS)]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<p><strong>Las Vegas</strong>&nbsp;(Nevada, United States) – <strong>March 6, 2021</strong>. After starting from the 13th spot aboard his Silverado #24 Camping World truck, Raphael Lessard had to fight with a serious oversteer problem over the first two stages. After stops at the pits at the end of the first two stages, the 19-year-old driver now had a truck that was handling properly and was in an excellent 9th spot for the restart of the final stage. Bad luck struck when an eager crew member had jumped over the wall too early on that stop and Raphael Lessard had to restart at the back of the lead pack, in 23rd place. He then set off from deep in the pack on one of his usual runs through the field, hopefully up to what could have been a top-10 result. However, he caused an incident on lap 96 that heavily damaged his truck and left him 30th in the end.&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i><strong>“I made a mistake and I apologize to the other victims.</strong></i></p><p><i><strong>Let’s move on to Atlanta and get back to racing!”</strong></i></p></blockquote><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>The Race From the Driver’s Seat</strong></p><p>“I felt that the truck was not working well right from the start. Handling was good at the bottom of the track, but turbulence and a bad oversteer pushed me up the track and forced me to slow down in the middle of the corner, which ruined my corner exits. I finished the first stage in 20th position and the second in 16th despite the suspension modifications and other adjustments made by the crew in the pits at the end of stages 1 and 2,” explained the Silverado #24 Camping World driver.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“The truck was working better and better in the third stage and I was pushing hard to gain positions. With 38 laps to go, I hit David Gilliland who was running on my inside, and lost control. It was my mistake and I apologize to the other victims of the incident,”&nbsp;concluded a driver disappointed with his mistake that cost him dearly.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Next Race – Atlanta Motor Speedway on March 20, 2021</strong></p><p>After this difficult race, Raphael Lessard and his Silverado #24 from the GMS Racing team move on to the Atlanta Motor Speedway (Hampton, Georgia), another fast 1.5-mile oval similar to the Las Vegas Speedway, for the March 20 running of the FRB Auctions 200.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Date:&nbsp;</strong>March 5, 2021</p><p><strong>Event:&nbsp;</strong>Bucked Up 200 (race 3 of 22)</p><p><strong>Track:</strong>&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com/">Las Vegas Motor Speedway</a>&nbsp;(1.5 mile oval)</p><p><strong>Stages:&nbsp;</strong>At laps 30 |30 | 74</p><p><strong>Start/Result</strong>: 13th | 30th (completed 130 of the 134-lap race)</p><p><strong>Winner</strong>:&nbsp; John Hunter Nemechek<strong>&nbsp;</strong>fromKyle Busch Motorsports (Toyota)</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Photo</strong> <strong>Credit</strong>: GMS Racing</p><p><strong>High Resolution Pictures</strong>:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://cutt.ly/ylD21On">https://cutt.ly/ylD21On</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>MEDIA CONTACT</strong>:</p><p><strong>Jessica Ménard,&nbsp;</strong>Les Équipes Caissie-Ménard inc.<strong>&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Business Consultant, Raphael Lessard Racing &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Mobile: 819.448.6514 – Email:&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jmenard@caissiemenard.com">jmenard@caissiemenard.com</a>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Follow Raphael&nbsp;Lessard:</strong></p>]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2021-03-06T15:16:54+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[FULL TRUCK SEASON FOR RAPHAEL LESSARD WITH GMS RACING - Richelieu Hardware returns as a partner]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[St-Joseph-de-Beauce (Quebec, Canada) - January 7, 2021 – Raphael Lessard had a wide smile on his face when he boarded a flight from Montreal on January 5, on his way back to the United States to complete preparations for a full 22-race season in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series (NCWTS). 

While continuing the search for full race season financing, Raphael Lessard Racing announces today the return of Richelieu Hardware as an associate partner for five races in the 2021 season. 

Raphael Lessard's #24 Silverado, prepared by GMS Racing, will proudly display the Richelieu Hardware colours, among others on the deck lid. This prominent Quebec corporation is a leading North American distributor, importer and manufacturer of specialty hardware and complementary products.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jessica Ménard, Les Équipes Caissie-Ménard inc. 
Business Consultant, Raphael Lessard Racing - Mobile: 819.448.6514 – Email: jmenard@caissiemenard.com]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2021-01-07T19:00:15+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[L’Ascalon de Saint-Georges, inquiet pour l’avenir du développement du soccer en Beauce.]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2020-12-22T01:03:00+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Une forte proportion d’étudiants-athlètes grandement affectés par les mesures sanitaires.]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<p><strong>Montréal, le 27 octobre 2020</strong> – En appui à la lettre ouverte de <i><strong>SPORTS</strong>QUÉBEC</i> publiée ce matin dans La Presse + et pour laquelle nous faisons partie de la centaine de signataires et à la suite de la confirmation du maintien des mesures sanitaires, nous dévoilons aujourd’hui les résultats d’un sondage que nous avons effectué auprès de nos étudiants-athlètes la semaine dernière.</p><p><br>Tout en étant conscient que chacun doit faire sa part pour limiter la propagation, nous sommes préoccupés des effets du confinement que notre consultation a démontré sur la santé et la motivation des étudiants-athlètes.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Voici les principaux résultats du sondage auquel plus de 300 étudiants-athlètes de l’Alliance Sport-Études ont répondu&nbsp;:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>24 % ne vont&nbsp;<strong>pas très bien</strong>&nbsp;ou&nbsp;<strong>pas bien du tout</strong></li><li>62 % disent que le confinement affecte&nbsp;<strong>beaucoup</strong>&nbsp;ou&nbsp;<strong>énormément</strong>&nbsp;leurs entraînements</li><li>45 % disent que ça affecte&nbsp;<strong>beaucoup</strong>&nbsp;ou&nbsp;<strong>énormément</strong>&nbsp;leur motivation à l'entraînement</li><li>67 % disent que les cours en ligne les satisfont&nbsp;<strong>pas du tout</strong>&nbsp;ou <strong>un peu</strong></li><li>49 % disent que ça affecte&nbsp;<strong>beaucoup</strong>&nbsp;ou&nbsp;<strong>énormément</strong>&nbsp;leur motivation scolaire</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Ces résultats confirment que le sport joue un rôle fondamental dans leur bien-être, leur équilibre et leur santé physique et mentale. Nous sommes inquiets que plus les mesures seront en place longtemps, plus la santé et la motivation des étudiants-athlètes déclineront. Nous croyons que nos partenaires sportifs seraient en mesure d’assurer un retour graduel du sport qui soit à la fois sécuritaire pour les personnes vulnérables et bénifique pour la population, en particulier les jeunes.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>À propos de l’Alliance Sport-Études</strong></p><p>L’Alliance Sport-Études, reconnue par les ministères de l’Éducation et de l’Enseignement supérieur, regroupe 45 collèges, le Cégep à distance et 9 universités. Sa mission est de soutenir la réussite et la persévérance des athlètes québécois de haut niveau qui poursuivent des études postsecondaires. Plus de 1 400 étudiants-athlètes provenant de la Ligue de hockey junior majeur du Québec et de plus de 50 fédérations sportives y sont inscrits.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Source&nbsp;:</strong></p><p>Sébastien Fyfe<br>Directeur général<br><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://alliancesportetudes.ca/">Alliance Sport-Études</a><br>514&nbsp;212-8505<br><a href="mailto:sfyfe@alliancesportetudes.ca">sfyfe@alliancesportetudes.ca</a></p>]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2020-10-27T16:46:34+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Pandémie de COVID-19 - La ministre Isabelle Charest annonce un plan d&#039;aide de 70 M$ pour le loisir et le sport]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<p><strong>Québec, le 15 octobre 2020</strong> -&nbsp;La ministre déléguée à l'Éducation et ministre responsable de la Condition féminine, Mme&nbsp;Isabelle Charest, est fière d'annoncer un plan d'aide de 70&nbsp;millions de dollars pour soutenir les artisans du sport, du loisir et du plein air qui ont été durement touchés par la pandémie de COVID-19. Les sommes sont majoritairement destinées aux partenaires du loisir et du sport, responsables de l'organisation d'une multitude d'activités qui favorisent la santé de la population et la vitalité de nos communautés.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Les organismes de sport et de loisir ont vu la majorité de leurs événements annulés et leurs inscriptions diminuées, ce qui a entraîné des difficultés financières importantes pour plusieurs d'entre eux, qu'il s'agisse&nbsp;d'organisations, de fédérations sportives, de regroupements, d'associations, de ligues, d'équipes, de clubs, ou d'organismes communautaires. Le gouvernement souhaite donc, avec ce plan, assurer la pérennité des organismes qui proposent des services à la population et qui ont subi les impacts négatifs de la pandémie.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Grâce à cette aide, les fédérations sportives obtiendront, notamment, une bonification de leur financement de 60&nbsp;% dans le cadre du Programme de soutien aux fédérations sportives du Québec et une autre de 60&nbsp;% dans le cadre du Programme de soutien au développement de l'excellence. Ce soutien financier&nbsp;permettra aux organismes nationaux de soutenir leurs clubs locaux ainsi que leurs associations locales et régionales. De plus, une bonification historique de 5&nbsp;millions de dollars sera accordée pour le déploiement provincial du programme Accès-Loisirs.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Le gouvernement fait le choix d'appuyer ce secteur d'activité important notamment dans le but de permettre aux organismes de poursuivre leurs activités en leur offrant une aide ponctuelle et limitée dans le temps, pour atténuer l'impact de la crise. Cela permettra aux partenaires de continuer à proposer une offre d'activités variée et adaptée à tous les publics, particulièrement les clientèles qui sont à risque de diminuer leur participation, incluant les jeunes, les filles et les femmes, les aînés ainsi que les personnes démunies ou handicapées. Ainsi, après la crise, l'ensemble de la population pourra continuer à profiter d'une offre sportive et de loisir variée, sécuritaire et adaptée à ses besoins.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Citation&nbsp;:</strong></p><p>«&nbsp;Comme ministre déléguée à l'Éducation, ma priorité est de mettre en place les conditions nécessaires pour inviter la population à adopter et à maintenir un mode de vie physiquement actif. Je souhaite que tous les Québécois et Québécoises, peu importe leur âge, leur statut ou leur condition physique, aient accès à des activités qui les passionnent et qui ont des impacts positifs sur leur santé physique et mentale. La situation exceptionnelle dans laquelle nous sommes nous oblige à être inventifs dans nos manières de bouger et de pratiquer des loisirs. Pendant la pandémie, les organismes de loisir et de sport ont fait preuve d'une résilience incroyable et je veux les en remercier. Les sommes annoncées aujourd'hui leur permettront de poursuivre leurs activités malgré la pandémie. Je compte sur leur créativité et leur débrouillardise.&nbsp;»</p><p><i><strong>Isabelle Charest, ministre déléguée à l'Éducation et ministre responsable de la Condition féminine</strong></i></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Faits saillants&nbsp;:</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Les grands volets du plan de soutien financier</strong></p><p>Le plan de soutien financier prévoit notamment&nbsp;:</p><ul><li>une bonification de plus de 28&nbsp;millions de dollars du soutien financier destiné au fonctionnement des organismes provinciaux, régionaux et locaux;</li><li>au total, près de 23&nbsp;millions de dollars investis cette année seulement au sein des fédérations sportives.</li><li>près de 18&nbsp;millions investis en projets favorisant l'activité physique, le loisir, le sport et le plein air.</li><li>4,3&nbsp;millions de dollars pour la création d'une mesure pérenne de soutien au transport pour la participation à des activités récréatives et sportives;</li><li>une majoration de 2&nbsp;millions de dollars de l'aide accordée dans le cadre du Programme d'assistance financière aux initiatives locales et régionales en matière d'activités physiques et de plein air;</li><li>2&nbsp;millions de dollars en soutien au réseau sportif collégial et universitaire;</li><li>plus de 1,3&nbsp;million de dollars pour favoriser l'avancement des femmes et des filles en loisir et en sport.</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Liens connexes&nbsp;:</strong></p><ul><li>Pour en savoir davantage sur le coronavirus, la population est invitée à consulter le site&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.quebec.ca/sante/problemes-de-sante/a-z/coronavirus-2019/?utm_source=print&amp;utm_medium=print&amp;utm_campaign=coronavirus_2020">quebec.ca/coronavirus</a>.</li><li><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.quebec.ca/tourisme-et-loisirs/activites-sportives-et-de-plein-air/reprise-activites-sportives/">Québec.ca/activités-sportives</a></li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Renseignements: Alex Poulin, Directeur de cabinet, Ministre déléguée à l'Éducation, Ministre responsable de la Condition féminine, 819 582-2705</p>]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2020-10-15T23:00:10+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[COVID-19 - Retour graduel des athlètes au Complexe et dans le réseau de L&#039;INS Québec à compter du 15 juin.]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<p><strong>Montréal, le 12 juin 202</strong>0 - L'Institut national du sport du Québec (INS Québec) accueille avec enthousiasme l'annonce par la ministre déléguée à l'Éducation, Isabelle Charest de permettre la reprise des entraînements dans le réseau du l'Institut pour les athlètes de haut niveau. Ainsi, les athlètes de haut niveau pourront reprendre en partie et de façon graduelle leur entraînement au Complexe de l'INS Québec à compter du 15 juin.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>L'INS Québec a obtenu l'autorisation de la Direction nationale de la Santé publique (DNSP), du ministère de l'Éducation et de l'Enseignement supérieur (MÉES) et de la Régie des installations olympiques pour procéder à la réouverture partielle et graduelle de son Complexe situé au Parc olympique. De plus en ce qui a trait aux composantes du Réseau de l'Institut, les athlètes concernés pourront reprendre les activités dans leur Centre d'entraînement unisport et recevoir des services médico-sportifs et scientifiques des Centres régionaux d'entraînement multisports.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>« Depuis le début de la période de confinement, l'INS Québec a continué d'accompagner à distance les athlètes et entraîneurs de haut niveau, souligne Gaëtan Robitaille, président-directeur général de l'Institut. Nos experts sont aux premières loges pour constater les enjeux et cette reprise de nos services contribuera assurément à combler certains besoins. La réouverture du Complexe et des composantes du réseau de l'Institut se fera dans le respect des mesures sanitaires afin de créer un environnement d'entraînement sain et sécuritaire, car je suis convaincu que la meilleure façon de soutenir les athlètes, c'est de les aider à rester en santé. »</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>À compter du 15 juin, la salle de préparation physique et la clinique médicale ainsi que tous les plateaux sportifs du Complexe de l'INS Québec seront accessibles sous certaines conditions. En collaboration avec l'INS Québec, chaque sport résident a élaboré un plan de réouverture pour leur plateau d'entraînements. Ces plans ont également été approuvés par la DNSP et le MÉES. Pour les autres locaux à l'Institut (ex. laboratoires, salles de rencontres), la reprise des activités se fera en fonction des autorisations et des besoins des groupes d'entraînements.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Avec une préoccupation constante pour la santé et la sécurité de ses employés, des usagers de son Complexe et de leurs familles, l'INS Québec a élaboré une série de mesures qui permet une reprise partielle et graduelle de ses activités tout en assurant le respect des consignes sanitaires notamment celle liée à la distanciation physique : accès limité et contrôlé au Complexe, groupe limité, entraînement sur rendez-vous et pour une durée limitée, réaménagement des locaux et installation d'équipement de protection, consultation et traitement à la clinique médicale sur rendez-vous, etc.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Concernant la réouverture graduelle et progressive des 17 Centres d'entraînement unisports et des huit Centres régionaux d'entraînement multisports membres du réseau de l'INS Québec le processus de reprise des activités pourra s'amorcer à compter du 15 juin. Les dates et les modalités varieront pour chaque centre en fonction des besoins et de la spécificité de leurs clientèles, le tout dans le respect des consignes de santé publique.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>« Au nom de l'INS Québec, je remercie les athlètes, entraîneurs, membres du personnel des organisations et partenaires pour leur compréhension et leur agilité à composer avec la situation, ajoute M. Robitaille. Je salue également le professionnalisme, la capacité d'innovation et la résilience des membres de notre équipe qui sont restés engagés et performants malgré les circonstances. »</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>À propos de l'Institut national du sport du Québec</strong></p><p>En misant sur la science, l'innovation et la technologie, l'Institut national du sport du Québec incarne le « Génie derrière les performances » en proposant des solutions de pointe propulsées par une équipe d'experts et de partenaires pour repousser les limites de chacun de nos athlètes. L'INS Québec accompagne plus de 550 athlètes de haut niveau -- principalement des membres d'équipes canadiennes --, près de 2 000 athlètes de la prochaine génération et quelque 900 entraîneurs en leur offrant des services scientifiques, médicaux et professionnels. Membre du Réseau des instituts de sport olympique et paralympique du Canada, l'Institut se déploie à travers le Québec grâce à son réseau composé de huit centres régionaux d'entraînement multisports, de 17 centres d'entraînement unisports et de son Complexe du Parc olympique qui accueille dix groupes d'entraînement de haut niveau.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Site Web: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.insquebec.org/">www.insquebec.org &nbsp;</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Renseignements: Jean Gosselin&nbsp;</p><p>Service des communications, Institut national du sport du Québec, 514-757-9092,&nbsp;</p><p><a href="mailto:communicationsmedia@insquebec.org">Par courriel</a></p><p>communicationsmedia@insquebec.org</p>]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2020-06-12T22:28:53+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Team Canada will not send athletes to Games in summer 2020 due to COVID-19 risks.]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) and Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC), backed by their Athletes' Commissions, National Sports Organizations and the Government of Canada, have made the difficult decision to not send Canadian teams to the Olympic and Paralympic Games in the summer of 2020. ]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2020-03-23T01:00:57+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="https://www.ppnsource.com/en" />
            <id>https://www.ppnsource.com/en</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[Guy Bolduc]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[<p><strong>Québec, le 10 mars 2020 - </strong>Pour une 10e édition, la Corporation des Loisirs Duberger- Les Saules présente le Défi des cocos. Cet événement de course à pied est l’occasion unique de relever un défi en famille en cette période de Pâques.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Le Défi des cocos se tiendra le 11 avril prochain au Parc Père-Frédéric situé au 2655, rue Robitaille à partir de 8h30. Les départs sont prévus consécutivement selon les distances. Des parcours de 1 km (8 ans et moins) et de 2 km (8 à 12 ans) sont réservés aux enfants. Quant aux plus énergiques des distances de 5 km, 10 km et 15 km sont disponibles.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Ce défi permet de promouvoir les saines habitudes de vie et est offerte à faible coût dans le but d’encourager la population du quartier à bouger. Pour toutes informations supplémentaires ou pour vous inscrire, veuillez consulter les sites internet des Loisirs Duberger-Les Saules : <a href="http://www.loisirsdubergerlessaules.com">www.loisirsdubergerlessaules.com</a> .</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>BÉNÉVOLES RECHERCHÉS ! Envie de vous impliquer ? L’équipe du Défi des cocos est à la recherche de bénévoles pour s’impliquer dans l’événement. Les tâches offertes sont la gestion des intersections, l’animation des points de ravitaillement, l’ouverture et la fermeture de la course (à vélo). Pour de l’information supplémentaire, veuillez communiquer avec les loisirs : <a href="mailto:info@loisirsdubergerlessaules.com">info@loisirsdubergerlessaules.com</a> ou au 418 682-2429. Sans l’aide précieuse de bénévoles, ces événements ne pourraient tout simplement pas avoir lieu!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Nous tenons à aviser la population qu’il y aura interdiction de circuler et de stationner dans certaines rues du secteur Duberger-Les Saules. Nous invitons les résidents à rester à l’affût de la signalisation en vigueur lors de l’événement.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>À propos des Loisirs Duberger-Les Saules&nbsp;</strong></p><p>Loisirs Duberger-Les Saules est une corporation bien établie dans l’Arrondissement des Rivières. Innovateur dans son offre d’activités, l’organisme est reconnu pour la qualité de ses services. Riche d’une équipe dynamique et expérimentée, elle offre un milieu de travail stimulant.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>-30-&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Source : Marie-Eve Savard Loisirs Duberger Les Saules <a href="mailto:m-e.savard@loisirsdubergerlessaules.com">m-e.savard@loisirsdubergerlessaules.com</a> 418 682-2429 poste 102 <a href="http://www.loisirsdubergerlessaules.com">www.loisirsdubergerlessaules.com</a></p>]]>
            </summary>
                                    <updated>2020-03-11T00:46:18+00:00</updated>
        </entry>
    </feed>
