Ahead of the 2025 Special Olympics BC Summer Games in July, the City of Prince George has announced it is in the running to host the 2030 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games.
The national games are the country’s largest multi-sport event for people with intellectual disabilities. It would bring approximately 1,700 athletes, coaches, and volunteers from across Canada to Prince George to participate in 10 sports over five days at several City parks and facilities.
At the February 24 meeting, Council approved a request from administration to submit a bid for the 2030 games. The staff report explained that the economic impact of the 2030 Summer Games will be more than $8 million for the City and more than $12.5 million across the country. The games also benefit Prince George athletes, as previous games have left healthy legacy funds for local Special Olympics teams.
Together with Tourism Prince George and an internal committee, City staff prepared and submitted the bid and have received the news the bid has successfully moved to the next phase. The committee are now planning a site visit for Special Olympics Canada representatives this October. The successful community will be announced later this year.
“We are thrilled to be shortlisted to host the games in 2030. The City of Prince George is committed to inclusivity and is eager for the opportunity to welcome people of all backgrounds and abilities to our community,” said Civic Facilities and Events director, Andy Beesley.
“Prince George is well-equipped to welcome athletes from across the country, thanks to our world-class facilities and sports fields, experienced staff and organizing committee members, and the strong commitment of local volunteers. We have demonstrated our success with events such as the 2015 Canada Winter Games and soon, the Special Olympics BC Summer Games. We look forward to the site visit in October and are determined to impress our guests!”
The Special Olympics BC Summer Games are set to begin on July 10. Volunteers are still needed, to learn more about how to participate visit the Special Olympics BC website.