The 2007 Canada Winter Games Host Society announced Monday that the Columbia Sportswear Company has become a Major Sponsor and will supply more than $350,000 of product.

'Columbia is excited about providing its merchandise to the athletes and volunteers taking part in the Canada Games,' said Jeff Timmins, marketing manager for Columbia.

'We are proud to be able to support amateur athletes in Canada and the volunteers who are investing their personal time to make this great event happen.'

The volunteer uniforms consist of a fleece vest and a shell jacket, making volunteers easily identifiable during the Games. In addition to providing 5,000 volunteer uniforms, Columbia will also supply 3,800 backpacks to Games athletes, coaches and managers.

'Columbia's reputation for producing quality outerwear is second to none,' said Paul Flaherty, vice-president of sponsorship for the 2007 Games host society.

'This relationship allows the Games to reward athletes who have persevered and to recognize volunteers for their contribution to making these Games the most memorable.'

In addition to the uniforms and backpacks, the Columbia Sportswear Company is also the presenting sponsor of alpine skiing, which takes place at Mount Sima from March 5-8, 2007, during Week 2 of the Games.