(Special Olympics Alberta on Facebook)

By Justin Goulet

COVID Delays

Special Olympics Alberta Provincial Games delayed to 2023 due to COVID-19

Aug 27, 2020 | 1:59 PM

EDMONTON, AB – Special Olympics Alberta has announced some unfortunate news.

The Summer Games set for 2021 have been cancelled. The event was scheduled to take place July 9 to 11, 2021 in Strathcona County.

On the bright side, Special Olympics Alberta has confirmed that their partnership with Strathcona County has been extended. Therefore, the region will host the Winter Games in February 2023.

“COVID-19 has had tremendous social and financial impact on our province. Our communities focus right now needs to be on recovery and regaining stability,” it states in a release.

“Even though the Provincial Games are a positive force in this rebuild, we acknowledge that as strong community partners we have a responsibility to mitigate any further financial and public health strains within our province.”

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There are over 3,000 Special Olympic athletes across Alberta. The organization’s CEO Johnny Byrne said they believe this is the best decision for athletes and the host community of Strathcona County.

“Strathcona County has been a tremendous partner and we are thrilled to have their unwavering support as we begin our planning for the next Provincial Games,” he said.

“We are looking forward to the opportunity to build on the momentum we have created with Strathcona County thus far. The extra time we have to work, plan and access resources with the community and its members will help us to responsibly deliver an unforgettable event in 2023.”

The organization said the Winter Games will be held in Strathcona’s world-class facilities such as the Strathcona Wilderness Centre.

“Strathcona County is pleased to continue our partnership with Special Olympics Alberta and have the opportunity to host the 2023 Special Olympics Alberta Winter Games,” said mayor Rod Frank.

“It has been a wonderful experience working with their team so the decision to stay in Strathcona County for 2023 was an easy one,” added Byrne.

“Although we are disappointed to have to cancel our 2021 Provincial Games, we look forward to showcasing the County in 2023 and providing our athletes families, and the local community with a memorable Games experience.”

More on Special Olympics Alberta can be found here.