This release was issued under a previous government.
“Building on previous experience in hosting world-class events, Medicine Hat is an excellent choice to host the 2016 Alberta Winter Games. This is a tremendous opportunity for the community, as well as Alberta coaches, athletes and volunteers.”
Athletes ranging in age from 11 to 17 will compete in traditional winter sports such as alpine skiing, curling, figure skating, freestyle skiing, hockey, and speed skating. The number of participants is similar to an Olympic Winter Games, with more than 3,000 athletes, coaches and officials taking part in the events.
Medicine Hat has previously hosted the 1978 Alberta Winter Games, 1992 Alberta Seniors Games, 2002 Alberta Winter Games and 2008 Alberta Summer Games.
The Alberta Sport Connection (formerly the Alberta Sport, Recreation, Parks and Wildlife Foundation) supports the Alberta Games on behalf of the Alberta government and works closely with the host community to prepare for the event. The Alberta Sport Connection will provide advice, as well as operating grants totaling $420,000.
“Medicine Hat has a long history of success in sports at all levels. High school athletes, in particular, have done exceptionally well. These successes are due in part to the facilities developed in the City as a result of previous commitments to events such as these upcoming Winter Games”
The Alberta Winter Games take place every two years. The 2014 Alberta Winter Games take place in Banff and Canmore February 6 – 9.
Related information
Multimedia
Watch on YouTube: Minister Starke congratulates Medicine Hat on successful bid
Listen on Soundcloud: Minister Starke on successful Alberta Winter Games bid
Listen on Soundcloud: Medicine Hat will do a fantastic job as winter games host