THUNDER BAY - The middle of August can't come soon enough.
In June it was announced that Thunder Bay is placing a bid to host the 2020 Special Olympics Winter Games, and the excitement was in full swing for the official site visit.
Special Olympic officials capped off their visit to the city on Friday by attending a pep rally at Prince Arthur’s Landing.
The decision is expected to be announced in mid-August, with Thunder Bay trying to beat out Regina for the nod.
“I can tell you, from a community support, commitment, and dedication standpoint, I think you’ve nailed it,” Special Olympics vice-president Blair McIntosh told the crowd of supporters.
McIntosh landed in Thunder Bay and was greeted by Special Olympians the moment he stepped off the plane.
“It was a great demonstration of how badly the community is looking to host our Games,” McIntosh said.
His tour of Thunder Bay included visits to sport venues, and athlete accommodations, and an evening reception where he met with more members of the community.
McIntosh said the three things officials look for is care and comfort for athletes, appropriate sport venues, and community support.
“We get a sense of what the commitment is already,” Burke said in regards to the community support. “It’s very important for us and Thunder Bay did a great job.”
Special events developer Paul Burke said the potential venues include Fort William Gardens, Kamview Nordic Centre, Loch Lomond, the Thunder Bay Tournament Centre, Delaney Arena, and the C.J. Sanders Fieldhouse.
“We’re using primarily the south side of the city with the exception of the (Fieldhouse),” Burke explained. “It’s a perfect venue for floor hockey.”
In terms of economic impact, Burke expects a “much, much higher” total compared to the $5.4 million earned at last year’s games in Corner Brook, N.L.
“Our games would include the bowling event which brings in another 200 athletes.”
All that’s left is for the city to hope.
The decision is expected to be announced the week of August 14-18.
