Rideau Hall, Monday, April 28, 2014

On behalf of me and my wife, Sharon, I would like to welcome all of you to Rideau Hall, the home of hte people of Canada, on this wonderful morning!

It’s taken a while, but I think spring has finally taken hold of our nation’s capital, and what better way to celebrate than with the Queen’s Baton Relay winding up this residence’s path.

The relay, which will cover over 190 000 kilometres and visit 70 nations and territories, will involve a third of the world’s population. The most engaging relay in the world will end at the opening of the 20th Commonwealth Games, held this year in Glasgow Scotland, in July 2014.

Today, it is Canada’s turn!

We are joined this morning by students from schools across the National Capital Region. Let me hear from you! Are you having a fantastic morning?

I am so delighted that you are here, not only because of your energy and enthusiasm, but also because you all understand the importance of both learning and athletics. A balance of healthy minds and healthy bodies—that’s you!

With us here today are also some of the best athletes in Canada. These men and women are all wonderful representatives of their respective sports. I encourage all of you to talk to them later and ask them about their experiences.

And don’t forget to go look at the baton up close, as it is a truly remarkable, indeed historic, piece of craftsmanship.

Think of all the kilometres this baton has already travelled, of how many countries it has seen.

I was thrilled to accept the baton from Chantal Petitclerc. Her presence here, and that of all the other athletes, speaks to just how important this relay is. It also means that the Commonwealth Games—which will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, this summer—are quickly approaching.

Sharon and I are both excited to start watching the competition, cheering on our Canadian athletes, revelling in every win.

Her Majesty The Queen placed her message for the opening of the Commonwealth Games inside this baton, and seeing it pass from hand to hand, country to country, shows how much we all have in common. The Commonwealth is a diverse group of countries, with many languages, cultures and differing points of view. But in sport, we can all come together, in unity and in peace.

Thank you, once again, for joining us today. Enjoy your time here, and have a great summer!