July 2 - Olympic medallist Doug Hamilton has been appointed as a member of Toronto's Board of Directors for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games Host Committee, it was announced today.


The former rower won a bronze medal in the quadruple sculls at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles.

He is now a partner in the Environment, Health and Safety Group of the litigation department of McCarthy Tetrault in Toronto and is leading lawyer in the area of environmental law.

From 1989 to 1997, he was in charge of Canada's highly successful international rowing programme and, more recently, was vice-president of sports and venues for Toronto's unsuccessful bid to host the 2008 Olympics and Paralympics.

Gary Lunn, Canada's Sports Minister, who announced the appointmnet of Hamilton to the Board, said: "On behalf of the Government of Canada, I am pleased to appoint Doug Hamilton to serve as Federal Government representative on the Board of Directors.

"His experience and knowledge will greatly benefit the Board, and I am confident that he will be a welcome addition."

The appointment of Hamilton, narrowly beaten in 2001 to become the President of the Canadian Olympic Committee, was also welcomed by Roger Garland, the chairman of the Board.

He said: "Doug Hamilton's unique scope of experience will help us deliver great games and a long-lasting legacy for the community."