Sporting events generated positive financial results for Lethbridge in 2024.
According to the 2024 Sport Tourism Impact Report, events hosted in the city last year generated a total economic impact of $18,049,979. Province-wide, officials say the impact hit $21,590,929.
The report includes economic data from 214 single and multi-day sport events, representing 62 per cent of all events held last year, with the focus being on events that brought in out-of-town participants to Lethbridge.
The majority of those were annual recurring events. Last year, four basketball events, including the Battle at the Bridge, hosted in YQL since 2008, generated $1,181,062.
Six running events contributed $502,523 to the local economy, and the annual Floorbusters lacrosse tournament generated $397,094. Five disc golf events brought in $189,979, with a single rugby event generating $427,570. Three ringette events, including the University Challenge Cup, had a combined economic impact of $1,248,198.
“Sport tourism remains a key driver of economic growth in Lethbridge,” says Dominika Wojcik, Senior Director of Communications with Tourism Lethbridge.
“Beyond the financial benefits, these events showcase our community, attract visitors, and reinforce Lethbridge as a premier sport tourism destination.”
Officials note that sport tourism is a $7.4 billion annual industry in Canada.
The projected economic impact is calculated using STEAM, or Sport Tourism Canada – Sport Tourism Economic Assessment Model, which incorporates the latest information from Statistics Canada to measure the impact of events that attract out-of-town participants and spectators.
“Hosting sport events in Lethbridge is good for the community and for sport,” says Susan Eymann, Executive Director of the Lethbridge Sport Council.
“These events bring people together, strengthen local sport organizations, and create memorable experiences for athletes and volunteers.”
The 2024 Sport Tourism Impact Report can be seen at the Lethbridge Sport Council website.
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