By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

Chefs de mission for 2019 Games wrap up meetings in Red Deer

Sep 27, 2018 | 11:55 AM

Now just 141 days out from the 2019 Canada Winter Games, the question remains: Is Red Deer ready?

According to Team Alberta’s Chef de Mission, the answer is yes.

“The people of Red Deer, the volunteers, the host society and their partners and the Canada Games Council are all doing an amazing job. Red Deer will do Albertans proud,” said Pat Lechelt who, along with the other 12 provincial and territorial chefs de mission, were meeting in Red Deer this week.

“We have done venue tours, we’ve had presentations from the host society with regards to the athletes’ village, transportation, entertainment. We’ve had a chance to see their plans and provide feedback to help make these the best set of games possible.”

Lechelt noted confidence in security at the village and how well athletes and coaches will be treated, particularly with the entertainment lineup and other activities which will be available for the many who will be visiting our city.

DON'T WASTE IT

Lacombe encouraging residents to treat water as precious resource

35m ago

Ground School Training

New aviation career pathway elevates opportunities for students

9h ago

4-7 p.m. Wednesday

City to host downtown parking feedback session

12h ago

Chefs de mission are tasked with coordinating their provincial or territorial team, including staff and athletes. Responsibilities extend beyond actual competition and into logistics, including transportation, food services and athlete services.

“Everything we’ve seen up to this point indicates they are more than ready to go,” said Dave Patterson, Canada Games Council President and CEO. “The engagement from the community is outstanding, and as we see more and more volunteers step up to join the effort, we know we’re in great hands here and athletes across the country are going to be able to enjoy their experience.”

Patterson says milestones are being reached and things are right on, if not ahead of schedule including meeting volunteer and fundraising targets.

“Continue to volunteer and sign up. The experience starts now,” he added. “The earlier you get into it, the more you’ll enjoy it. Also, continue to support sport, continue to help out and be involved in sport each and every day. That will help us at the Games and help the legacy of the Games.”

The 2019 Canada Winter Games run Feb. 15-Mar. 3.