Durham Region yesterday announced it has been selected to host the 2023 Ontario Parasport Games. The region last hosted these games in 2019.
The 2023 Durham Region Ontario Parasport Games will attract approximately 550 participants and result in an anticipated local economic impact of between $500,000 and $1 million. There will be 11 sport competitions at eight venues, along with an opening ceremony, and two dinners for participants, said a statement from the region.
Sport Durham, the Region of Durham’s sport tourism program, will work closely with the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries and community volunteers forming the Games Organizing Committee. This team will deliver another successful and memorable event for visiting participants, as well as community partners and volunteers, said the statement.
Durham Region hosted the Ontario Parasport Games in 2019—garnering around $678,000 in local economic impact; and a legacy fund of $112,000 that is being used to increase adaptive sport opportunities and participation in Durham. The 2019 Games were recognized with several national and provincial awards, it added.
The region has previously hosted four other Ontario Games, including the Ontario Summer Games in 2000; the Ontario 55+ Summer Games in 2010; and the Ontario Parasport Games in 1979.
Durham Region is a premier sport tourism destination, home to some of the Greater Toronto Area’s (GTA) best and busiest sporting complexes and venues. A sports-minded, active community, the region has an impressive resumé of hosting sport events, from large international events to numerous community-based sport tournaments.
“Durham Region is honoured to be hosting the Ontario Parasport Games for a second time. It’s a reflection of our commitment to accessibility and inclusion—a community working together to find valuable solutions that produce positive impacts. Collectively building on the best place to call home,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Region of Durham. “The local economic impact of having Durham Region host the 2023 Parasport Games will increase adaptive sports opportunities and participation at the local level. This opportunity will make Pickering-Uxbridge and Durham Region a hub for inclusive, accessible, and adaptive sports.”