Ski cross racer Jenny Owens and cross country skier Paul Murray were today inducted to the Athletes’ Commission by AOC Secretary General Craig Phillips today.

The dual Olympians were elected by their peers during the Vancouver Olympic Winter Games last month and join eight Summer Olympians, on the extremely impressive Commission.

The Vancouver Games marked the conclusion of the four year term for Steven Bradbury and the two terms (eight years) of service from Jacqui Cooper.

After being briefed by Phillips on the history of the Commission, its role, AOC Policies and the key events of the next four years, then Owens and Murray were ready to get down to business.

“I was really proud when elected and now that I have a greater understanding of the role of the Commission and what we plan to achieve I’m even more excited to be a part of it,” Murray said after his first meeting.

For Murray, who has just retired from international competition and commencing the transition back to being a school teacher, the main discussion of the day was very topical.

The Commission is determined to help guide athletes with the often difficult transition in their lives - by providing information and key contacts that can help them along each stage of the journey.

“By contributing to tangible things like an athletes’ transition and also educating athletes and school kids about the Olympic ideals and values are just some of the things this great group will make happen.”

The Commission is chaired by six-time Olympian James Tomkins with Trent Franklin (Water Polo) as deputy chair. The other Commission members are Natalie Cook (Beach Volleyball), Grant Hackett (Swimming), Angie Lambert (Hockey), Paul Murray (Cross Country Skiing), Jenny Owens (Ski Cross), Chantelle Newbery (Diving), Clint Robinson (Canoe/Kayak) and Libby Trickett (Swimming).

The AOC Athletes’ Commission meet three times a year.

AOC