Winnipeg will welcome Canada’s largest multi-sport event if the City is successful in its bid to host the Canada Summer Games in 2017.
In addition to 4,600 athletes, coaches and officials, the Games will bring to the city an estimated 20,000 out-of-province visitors. The two-week event has the potential to generate over $130 million in economic activity within the city.
“We are excited at the prospect of hosting the Summer Games,” said Mayor Sam Katz. “Winnipeggers are not only enthusiastic spectators; we are always looking for opportunities to welcome the nation. In addition to the Games, visitors will be able to take in our many attractions, such as the Journey to Churchill exhibit at Assiniboine Park Zoo, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, the new football stadium, and the completed Convention Centre expansion.”
The Mayor brought a motion to Executive Policy Committee this morning to start the process to submit a proposal to bring the Games to Winnipeg. The intention of the bid committee is to submit a winning bid that exceeds Canada Games Hosting Standards.
In pursuing the Games, the City will be a key partner with the Government of Canada, the Province of Manitoba, Sport Manitoba, and Winnipeg’s business community, along with many other stakeholders.
The Canada Games uses a set financial framework for public funding of the event. The following contributions for the 2017 Canada Summer Games have been approved by both the Government of Canada and Province of Manitoba:
- Government of Canada: $7,350,000 (operating)
- Government of Canada: $3,000,000 (capital)
- Province of Manitoba: $7,350,000 (operating)
- Province of Manitoba: $3,000,000 (capital)
Pending approval by City Council, Winnipeg would contribute $3 million in capital funds over a four year period (from 2014 to 2017), an equally shared indemnification agreement with the Province of Manitoba, a facilities upgrade program, and a legacy project or projects.
Winnipeg’s proven track record of hosting major sporting events, coupled with its strong and experienced volunteer sector, will play a role in the strength of the bid. In 1999, the City hosted the Pan American Games, an event that put Winnipeg in the international spotlight.
“This is an exciting event that will draw visitors and sports enthusiasts from across Canada,” said Mayor Katz. “If past events are any indication, Winnipeggers will be eager to support the Games and offer up their time and talents as volunteers.”
The 2017 Summer Games have special significance, as they will be held during Canada’s 150th birthday celebrations and mark the 50th anniversary of the Games.
The Canada Games have been held every two years since 1967, alternating between Winter and Summer Games. Manitoba last played host to the Canada Summer Games in 1997, when the games were held in Brandon. [CANADA GAMES]
