TORONTO - Roots-sponsored Canadian Olympic Medalist Alexandre Despatie soared to new international heights yesterday winning the gold medal in the World Aquatics Championships in Montreal. Before his hometown crowd, he delivered a precision dive in the three-metre springboard that produced the highest score ever in the event at a world championship. He put in a near flawless performance by scoring perfect 10s from three judges on the third of six final dives to finish with a total of 813.60

Despatie, 20, who last spring signed a deal to represent Roots, has won several international and Canadian competitions in 2005 and 2004, in addition to capturing a Silver Medal at the Summer Olympics in Athens last August. Known as Alexandre the Great, Despatie, 20, is considered one of the best divers in the history of the sport. His latest achievement in Montreal yesterday furthers his standing.

“We’re absolutely thrilled for Alex,” says Michael Budman, Co-Founder of Roots. “He is an amazingly dedicated athlete and a great competitor. Ever since we first met him, we’ve been impressed by his drive and determination and the pride he takes in his sport. It’s exciting to watch him as he goes from strength to strength in developing his career. We’re proud to have Roots associated with such a gifted athlete and first-class individual.”

For further information, contact:
Robert Sarner,
Director of Communication and Public Affairs
416-781-3574 ext 4280
E-mail : rsarner@roots.com

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