Local gymnast receives boost for her Olympic aspirations
A Red Deer gymnast has received a significant boost to her Olympic aspirations.
Kalena Soehen was named this week as one of 55 young Canadian athletes from both summer and winter sports selected by Petro-Canada and the Canadian Olympic Committee to receive a Fueling Athletes and Coaching Excellence (FACE) program grant.
COC officials say the athletes and their coaches are awarded a $10,000 FACE grant to help with their journey, with $5,000 going directly to the athlete and $5,000 to their coach. The money is often used for training, equipment and travel expenses.
In addition to providing financial support, FACE athletes and coaches are invited to an annual summit to learn from Olympians and Paralympians and receive advice on media, training, public speaking and personal brand development.