In September of last year, Coaldale was chosen to host the 2024 Southern Alberta Summer Games. This week, the Town released its finalized list of official competitions to be held July 3-6.
Official competitions include: three, five and 10-kilometre runs, equestrian, pickleball, badminton, flag football, soccer, baseball, golf, softball, three-on-three basketball, lacrosse, swimming, beach volleyball, mini soccer, track and field, cribbage, photography, mountain biking and weightlifting.
“A lot of people may not realize it, but the SASG Games have a long history of including competitions for games like cribbage and skills like photography,” says Mark McIntosh, SASG coordinator.
“These competitions serve as a fantastic way to encourage diverse demographics to participate in the Games and make the Games even more inclusive – which is something we want to foster moving forward. The more participants we can include and the more skills we can highlight, the better,” adds McIntosh.
Photography competition Chair Blair Takahashi says the Games showcase top physical and creative talents. “As a local coach and photographer, I am excited for the competitions at this year’s Games.”
The photography competition, Takahashi adds, doesn’t favour age or physical ability. “And will focus on highlighting the skills and dedication of this craft in our community.”
Registrations for the Games will open May 3 via the official SASG website and will remain open until May 31.
During the Games, the Town will be featuring barbecues, concerts and other celebrations.
“As a community, we’re honoured to have been chosen to bring the Games back to life after a four-year long hiatus and want to make sure they go off with a bang,” says Clayton Varjassy, community experience manager. “That’s why we’re also organizing other family-friendly activities for people to enjoy, while the Games take place. We want the Games to be a party for the entire community.”