With less than a month to go until the 2025 Special Olympics BC Summer Games in July, the city has announced that it is on the shortlist to host the 2030 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games.
"We are absolutely thrilled to be chosen as one of the shortlisted cities for the 2030 National Special Olympics," said Shirley Bond, director of public relations for this July's Special Olympics BC Summer Games.
“I was really proud to be part of the bid group that worked so hard to put together a first-class bid, and I think it was super helpful to have the unanimous support of council and so many others. So great next step, but the big ones yet to come."
If chosen, the city would host 1,700 athletes from across the country, along with coaches, family, friends and supporters.
The bid was submitted during a Feb. 24 council meeting. A staff report stated 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.
“What matters most to me is that we have seen our community learn so much about Special Olympics and about the importance of an ongoing program,” said Bond. “The games are important but what goes on every week all year long for our athletes, our coaches, our volunteers is so critical. I think that the summer games will build momentum and we can continue to tell the story of the Special Olympics during that period as we wait for the national. I am just so proud of the Special Olympics local and parents, families, coaches, and volunteers who every single week create a wonderful training opportunity for our athletes.”
The committee is now planning a site visit for Special Olympics Canada representatives this October. The successful community will be announced later this year.
Bond also noted how Prince George can improve its chances of being chosen for the 2030 games.
“If we do this job well and we will, it will be a really great opportunity for the 2030 bid committee to build on that success,” said Bond. “We need to really encourage people to step up. You can just spend a couple of hours or a couple of days supporting these athletes. That is going to be an important part of convincing the national games.”
Bond said she believes that Prince George has a good chance of being chosen for the National Games.
“Prince George is exceptional at hosting games and tournaments and welcoming Canada,” Bond said.
"Prince George steps up and I think we have a reputation of being able to deliver. I think that will certainly be taken into account when they analyze who's best to host the 2030 Summer Games.
The Special Olympics BC Summer Games are set to begin on July 10. Volunteers are still needed. Visit the Special Olympics BC website to learn more and to register at https://specialolympics.ca/british-columbia/2025-sobc-summer-games
