Recapping the 2024 Winter Season at WinSport

This past winter season was one for the books at WinSport, and as we close out the season and look towards summer, let's look back on some of the highlights of what made the 2023/24 winter season so great!

Welcoming Newcomers and Calgary school groups

Throughout the winter season, WinSport embarked on a mission to make winter sports accessible to all, regardless of background or experience. Collaborating with various groups, WinSport created unique opportunities for individuals and families to discover the joy of skiing and snowboarding.

From hosting newcomer families to Calgary and providing their first-ever winter sport experiences, to offering Indigenous youth the chance to take their inaugural ski lessons, WinSport's commitment to inclusivity and community engagement was on full display.

These initiatives not only introduced participants to the thrill of winter sports but also fostered a sense of belonging and empowerment, instilling confidence and igniting a lifelong passion for outdoor sport.

Moreover, WinSport's dedication to youth development was evident in its extensive school programs, which welcomed a staggering 79 different schools and approximately 14,000 students. Through these initiatives, WinSport not only introduced winter sports to a new generation but also laid the foundation for future athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, ensuring that the legacy of active living continues to thrive in the local community and beyond.

In essence, WinSport's efforts to welcome newcomers and inspire youth epitomize its core values of accessibility, inclusivity, and empowerment by breaking down barriers and opening doors to new opportunities.

Celebrating Sporting Excellence

On the competition front, the winter season at WinSport was marked by an exhilarating array of sporting events, from grassroots competitions to prestigious international showcases. WinSport played host to a series of World Cups, provincial tournaments, and junior national events, attracting top-tier athletes and spectators from around the globe.

One of many of the season's highlights was the hosting of two World Cups in Canmore, where athletes showcased their skills and determination in cross-country skiing and biathlon!

Moreover, the classic Snow Rodeo proved to be a standout event, drawing participants and partners from across the city to partake in the excitement and festivities.

From the Alberta Snowboard Provincials to the FIS Freeski Halfpipe World Cup, WinSport's slopes were alive with the energy of competition and camaraderie, as athletes pushed the limits of their abilities and wowed guests to the events in the process.

These events not only showcased the talent and dedication of all the athletes involved, but also brought the community together, fostering a sense of unity and pride in hosting international competition within your city. 

In addition to hosting elite competitions, WinSport also provided invaluable support to aspiring athletes through its training programs and facilities.

From grassroots initiatives to high-performance training camps, WinSport's commitment to athlete development was unwavering, empowering athletes to reach their full potential and pursue their dreams on the global stage. This was shown with the number of athletes competing in the Snow Rodeo who had also grown up training at WinSport. 

Marking 100 years of the Olympics and honouring the Olympic legacy

As the world commemorated 100 years of the Winter Olympics, WinSport reflected on its storied history and enduring legacy within the Olympic movement.

Originally known as Canada Olympic Park, WinSport has been a cornerstone of Calgary's sports scene since its inception, playing a pivotal role in the city's Olympic journey. From hosting events during the historic 1988 Winter Olympics to serving as a training ground for aspiring Olympians, WinSport embodies the spirit of the Games year-round, inspiring athletes of all ages and abilities to pursue their passion for winter sports.

The historic significance of the Winter Olympics was palpable at WinSport, where memories of past triumphs and iconic moments were celebrated 36 years since the Games took place in Calgary. From the fearless exploits of legendary athletes like Eddie "The Eagle" Edwards to the inspiring underdog story of the Jamaican bobsleigh team, WinSport has been witness to some of the Games' most memorable chapters, leaving a mark on the Olympic landscape. These timeless tales of courage, perseverance, and sportsmanship continue to inspire and unite people around the world, reminding us of the transformative power of sport to transcend boundaries and bring communities together.

Furthermore, WinSport's ongoing commitment to Olympic ideals and values is reflected in its dedication to athlete development, community engagement, and sustainable practices. By providing a platform for athletes to pursue their dreams and fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity, WinSport honours the Olympic legacy and ensures that its spirit endures for generations to come. 

Looking ahead

As WinSport bids farewell to another remarkable winter season, we do so with gratitude and anticipation for the adventures that lie ahead.

We can't thank all of our guests enough for continuing to support WinSport as your winter destination. Thank you for trusting us with providing you with experiences you can take with you wherever you may end up, whether that's skiing in the mountains and working towards a podium finish halfway across the globe. 

Because of you, we eagerly await the 2024/25 winter season and what new experiences and memories it will bring us. 

For now, it's time to let the snow on the hill melt and get ready for an incredible 2024 summer season on the trails!