'Man in Motion' chosen as Stampede parade marshal

Calgary Stampede organizers have named "Man in Motion" Rick Hansen as the 2011 parade marshal.

"He has dedicated his life to helping others and inspiring Canadians to do the same. He's one of Canada's most recognized and respected ambassadors, beloved worldwide as an icon of perseverance and hard work," said Mike Casey, Stampede president in a statement released on Thursday.

Hansen travelled around the world in the mid-1980s to raise funds for spinal cord injury research. His foundation has raised more than $200 million.

"If I wheeled around the world I figured I'd better get on my chair and wheel the parade route and ask some folks to join me," Hansen said.

The Calgary Stampede takes place July 8 to 17, with the parade kicking off "The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth."

Last year's marshals were brothers Jet and Cord McCoy, cowboys who hail from Oklahoma and are best known as contestants on the American reality show Amazing Race.

There had been rumors Prince William and Kate Middleton might take on the ceremonial role this year. They will be honeymooning in Calgary on the day of the parade.

Stampede officials said the royal couple was invited to be guests at the parade, but no reply has yet come back from London.