June 28, 2022 (Calgary, AB) - Calgary is proud to have been chosen to host the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games 2024 following a collaborative bid to Special Olympics Canada. The bid effort was led by Tourism Calgary and included Calgary’s entertainment, sport and hotel facilities. Hosting the Games is expected to inject $10.7 million into the local economy, as well as leave a lasting positive legacy focused on disability-inclusive employment.
According to Blair McIntosh, Special Olympics Canada’s VP Sport, Calgary submitted a strong bid focused on “the care and comfort of our athletes.”
“The bid was centred on the concept of showcasing the Games in the heart of the city,” says McIntosh. “This will not only be a great opportunity for our athletes to experience all thatCalgary has to offer but will also place our athletes in the heart of the community, where we can witness inclusion in full affect.”
Calgary boasts a long history of hosting national and international events, including the 1988 Olympic Winter Games. This announcement marks the fourth time that Alberta will host aSpecial Olympics Canada National Games.
As hundreds of Special Olympics athletes prepare to qualify for the opportunity to compete on the national stage, CEO of Tourism Calgary, Cindy Ady, proudly accepts the challenge of maintaining Calgary’s record of excellence as a host city.
“Calgary knows what it takes to host large scale sporting events and just as important is our track record as ultimate hosts. The incredible athletes, along with family, friends, supporters, coaches and officials can all expect a warm welcome to our city and a fun-filled event.”
Calgary expects to welcome 4,000 visitors, including 1,250 participants for the Games along with officials, honoured guests and friends and family. The Games will be held across seven venues citywide and six hotels will make up athletes' village in downtown Calgary.
About the Games
Special Olympics Canada Winter Games is a national sporting event for Canadian athletes with an intellectual disability. To compete, each athlete must qualify at their local andProvincial/Territorial levels before moving on to compete in one of eight sports featured at the Winter Games. The eight sports include 5-pin bowling, alpine skiing, cross country skiing, curling, figure skating, floor hockey, snowshoeing and speed skating. Special Olympics Canada Winter Games Calgary 2024 will be the qualifying event for athletes to represent Special Olympics Team Canada at the Special Olympics World Winter Games 2025.
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