The pandemic has claimed another victim: the 2022 Manitoba Winter Games, previously announced to be held in Niverville, have been cancelled. The announcement was made in the afternoon on Friday, September 24.
According to a press release from Sport Manitoba, the decision was made “to keep Manitobans safe and prevent the spread of COVID-19.”
The Games, which would have taken place from February 27 to March 5, would have brought together upwards of 3,000 people from all regions of the province, including athletes, coaches, managers, officials, and volunteers. The Games would have encompassed 12 different sports.
“Over the last 18 months, inconsistencies in competition and training opportunities had an effect on athlete development,” reads the press release. “Without regular training, conditioning, and recovery routines in this crucial stage, the risk of injury, mental fatigue, and overtraining were also factors in making this decision. Along with continued uncertainty about the pandemic, and public health restrictions, it became clear it would not be possible to host an event of this magnitude and execute a safe and successful multi-sport Games experience.”
The decision was not made lightly and was arrived at upon thoughtful consultation between Sport Manitoba, the Town of Niverville, the organizing committee, the Hanover School Division, Public Health, and other Games partners.
The decision was also supported by the Games’ title sponsor, Manitoba Hydro, in addition to the presenting sponsors: Credit Unions of Manitoba, Calm Air, Konica Minolta, Travel Manitoba, and the Manitoba Dental Association.
“The host society remained committed and dedicated as it planned through so many unknowns over the last year,” the press release continues. “To give them an opportunity to follow through on some of the benefits of hosting a Manitoba Games, Sport Manitoba is guaranteeing $150,000 for capital projects. Some projects, like the cross country ski trails at Hespeler Park, have already benefited from this investment. The funds that remain will be allocated within the community to enhance sport infrastructure and equipment.”
The Town of Niverville has been offered the first right of refusal to host the 2026 Manitoba Games, which is the next Games available to host.
The Manitoba Games take place every two years and alternates between summer and winter sports. It’s the largest ongoing multi-sport event in Manitoba and represents an opportunity for young athletes to compete and prepare to reach national and international sporting stages.
