Spencer gets green light for London

Toronto – Today, the Canadian Olympic Committee issued the following statement on boxer Mary Spencer being allocated a quota spot in the women’s 75 kg competition, while Mandy Bujold and Sandra Bizier were not allocated quota spots to compete at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

“I have been training and planning for this outcome, and i’m relieved that I will be competing this summer in London. I feel stronger and even more focused right now. The route to London was not as expected, but I feel I’ve learned a lot and I will take those lessons with me on the final leg of the journey. My coach Charlie Stewart and the rest of my team have been helping me prepare to box at the Games, and I’m looking forward to the honour of representing Canada in the ring in London. I will not be the only boxer representing our country, so I’m also exited to cheer on my teammates who qualified to box at the Games. I thank Boxing Canada, the COC and its partners, and my sponsors and community for their support.”
– Mary Spencer

“Boxing Canada is pleased that Mary Spencer was given a quota spot for London. Her previous three World Championship titles prove that she should be in the Olympics. We thank the IOC and AIBA for giving Mary the opportunity. At the same time, we are disappointed for Mandy Bujold and Sandra Bizier that will not join the team in London. They have worked hard and would have represented Canada with pride.”
-Pat Fiacco, Boxing Canada President

“This is excellent news for Mary and great news for the 2012 Canadian Olympic Team. I wish her good luck in training and can’t wait to see her in the ring. I feel for Mandy and Sandra who did not receive a quota spot. I know that they will bounce back from this disappointment.”
-Mark Tewksbury, 2012 Canadian Olympic Team Chef de Mission

“The Canadian Olympic Committee is pleased with the outcome of the decision to allow Mary to compete at the Olympic Games. The Team is stronger with Mary on it. My thoughts also go out to Mandy and Sandra. Disappointment aside, you have represented your country with pride in the ring.”
-Marcel Aubut, President, Canadian Olympic Committee