Ottawa, Ontario, Saturday, March 18, 2017

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My predecessor, Lord Stanley, would be so pleased to see us here at the corner of Sparks and Elgin streets in Ottawa.

The heart of Canada’s capital is a fitting place for this monument.

It reflects the Stanley Cup’s place in the hearts of millions of Canadians.

Who among us hasn’t dreamed of hoisting the Cup and skating a victory lap around our favourite hockey rink?

The Stanley Cup is a symbol of Canada—a symbol of excellence, of teamwork, of grit, grace and hard work.

It has become an important part of who we are. Who would have thought? At the behest of his children, Lord Stanley bought it for 10 guineas, or $50 Canadian at the time, to be awarded to the best hockey team in the Dominion of Canada!

Today, the Stanley Cup is the oldest trophy competed for by professional athletes in North America.

This monument honours that legacy and will further cement the Stanley Cup’s place in the life of our country.

A unique tradition among Cup-winning teams sees players and staff spending 24 hours with it in summer. They often visit their hometowns and cities to share it with fans.

Now, people from all over Canada and the world will visit this monument and have a chance to share in the glory of the Stanley Cup.

I would like to thank everyone who has worked so hard to make it happen. I was proud to serve as patron of your efforts and I’m delighted by your progress.

It’s a wonderful way to mark 125 years of the Stanley Cup, and 150 years of Canada.

Thank you all!