Ontario Winter Games
Collingwood Plays Host To
Thousands of Young Athletes
In acting as a host for the 2008 Ontario Wnter Games, the Town of Collingwood welcomed thousands of young athletes between the ages of 10 and 22 March 6th to 9th. The Downtown Collingwood Eddie Bush Memorial Arena hosted speed skating and women's hockey, the Collingwood Curling Club hosted curling competitions and Collingwood Collegiate played host to wrestling events.
Four Days Of Competition
23 Sports, 2,500 Athletes, 1,000 Volunteers
The 2008 Ontario Winter Games featured 2,500 young athletes between the ages of 10 to 22 years. They were here to compete in 23 indoor and outdoor sports in venues throughout the Southern Georgian Bay region, including Collingwood. The Town of Collingwood played host to speed skating, curling, wrestling and women's hockey.
"This is a major opportunity for young athletes to compete at the Provincial level and gives them the opportunity to prepare for national and international competitions" said Ontario Winter Games Committee Chairperson Peter Dunbar. "We welcome the opportunity to provide the venues for them to accomplish their goals" Dunbar added.
Other events were held in CFB Borden, Owen Sound, Town of the Blue Mountains, Clearview Township, Wasaga Beach, Meaford, Barrie and Kitchener.
photos by Paul Richards
The Ontario Winter Games began in 1970 as a showcase for provincial talent. "The Ontario government is proud to support these Games as part of our commitment to developing amateur athletes who inspire us all to lead active, healthy lives," said Minister Margarett Best. "These Games bring a variety of benefits to the region and I am confident the Town of Collingwood, the surrounding communities and the hundreds of volunteers will host an outstanding event."
For more photos, information and Ontario Winter Games results, visit www.owg2008.ca