The City of Lloydminster will not be hosting the Saskatchewan Summer Games in 2021.
The Saskatchewan Games Council, the City and the Lloydminster 2020 Host Society have made the decision to cancel the games due to rising concerns surrounding COVID-19 in the province and country.
The Games were originally scheduled for July 26 to August 1, 2020, but were then moved to a tentative date of July 18 to 24, 2021. The decision to postpone the games by a year was made at the end of April.
Chair of the 2020 Saskatchewan Summer Games Host Society Kevin Kusch says the athletes’ safety and comfort is paramount.
“From the beginning, our board has maintained the Games need to be a memorable event. For many athletes, this is their first experience competing at the provincial level, and as a host society, one of our duties is to provide them with a true Saskatchewan Summer Games experience. We look ahead to welcoming the athletes, coaches and families when it is safe to do so.”
With the cancellation, the Games will return to a four-year cycle with the next Summer Games planned for 2024. Normally, host communities are awarded through a bid process, but due to the circumstances, Lloydminster has been given the right of first refusal to host the 2024 Saskatchewan Summer Games.
Mayor Gerald Aalbers thanks all the residents and volunteers who promoted and advocated for Lloydminster to host the Games.
“Sports, whether team or individual, inspire and unite us. Together we’ll weather the storm as we build toward economic recovery, and the return of competitive sports and Lloydminster’s potential to host the 2024 Saskatchewan Summer Games.”
Lloydminster last hosted the Summer Games in 2008. The Saskatchewan Games brings in over 2,000 athletes and coaches from around the province to compete in one of the largest amateur sporting events in Saskatchewan. The Games alternate between summer and winter every two years with the next Winter Games scheduled for February 2022 in Regina.