Winnipeg, MB - Today at an announcement at The Forks, the Canada Games Council and the Province of Manitoba named the City of Winnipeg the host of the 2017 Canada Summer Games. In just over four years, the City of Winnipeg will welcome the country’s best young developing athletes to compete in 20 selected sports representing the best that their Province or Territory has to offer.
"We are very pleased to be able to welcome the 2017 Canada Summer Games to Winnipeg," said Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz. "Our city has a long history of providing first-class hospitality to athletes and visitors during large sporting and cultural events. I am confident that the 2017 Canada Summer Games will be no exception.”
The 2017 Games will mark the 50th Anniversary of the Canada Games as well as the 150th celebration of Canadian Confederation.
“In addition to contributing an estimated $130 million dollars to our local economy, the 2017 Games will also give Winnipeg athletes the opportunity to compete in front of a hometown audience,” said Katz. “The athletic talent that our community produces is impressive and I personally look forward to being able to cheer on Winnipeg athletes as they compete in this national event.”
The City of Winnipeg has begun the initial groundwork for the Games. Nineteen potential venues have been identified and a Host Society will be in place by August 2013.
For more information on the Canada Games, visit: www.canadagames.ca