Collingwood Mayor Terry Geddes said the Ontario Winter Games is good for the town in many ways. "Not only is it good for business, it puts our town in the provincial spotlight" Geddes added. Thousands of athletes and spectators arrived in Collingwood and surrounding area to launch the March Break by taking part in Ontario's largest multi-sport event, including both team and individual sports. The Ontario Winter Games are held every two years, alternating with the summer games. Mayor Geddes says talks continue to make Collingwood the permanent host of the Winter Games. Athletes up to 22 years of age qualify for the Games through a regional selection process conducted by the Provincial Sport Organizations. Approximately 2,500 to 3,500 athletes, coaches, managers and officials take part in the Games. Collingwood played host to close to 2,000 participants.