Special Olympics Alberta provincial games delayed to 2023

By Janet Kanters, Editor

Special Olympics Alberta is cancelling the Special Olympics Alberta Summer Games 2021 originally scheduled to take place from July 9-11, 2021 in Strathcona County. 

Strathcona County’s hosting duties will be extended, and they will now be hosting the Special Olympics Alberta Winter Games in February 2023. 

“We believe this is the best decision for our athletes and for our host community,” says Johnny Byrne, Special Olympics Alberta CEO. “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.” 

According to a news release from Special Olympics, the Special Olympics Alberta Winter Games promise to be a dynamic event held in Strathcona County’s world-class facilities like the Strathcona Wilderness Centre. The Games will highlight athletes of all abilities, inspire the community and promote the values of inclusion, accessibility and fairness. 

Special Olympics Alberta is dedicated to enriching the lives of Albertans with intellectual disabilities through the transformative power and joy of sport. Its programs cater to all ages and a wide range of abilities to over 3,300 athletes from 140 communities, providing world class sports programs that are run daily by over 950 volunteers and coaches.