By Sarah Tone, Communications Coordinator

It’s been two decades since the city of Dauphin first rallied to host our province’s most extensive multi-sport event. The Manitoba Games powered by Manitoba Hydro will make its highly anticipated return to Dauphin from August 11-17, 2024.

Dauphin was originally scheduled to host the Games in 2020, but the challenges of the pandemic forced its cancellation. Now, the leadership volunteers have reunited and committed to hosting the 18th edition of the Games.

Host society co-chairs Clayton Swanton and Carla Wolfenden are champions for sport and catalysts for change, who are dedicated to bringing their communities together. They led the committees of volunteers in the leadup to the 2020 Games and are back again to host in their hometown.

THE IMPACT

The Manitoba Games have helped shape our province’s athletic history since 1972, and continue to act as a beacon of excellence for young athletes looking to pursue competitive sport.

As demonstrated by previous hosts, the Games cultivate many social, cultural, and economic benefits, while playing a pivotal role in building the capacity of the host community.

Next summer, the Parkland region’s largest city will welcome 1,750 participants to compete in 12 sports over seven days: athletics, baseball, basketball, cycling, golf, rugby, sailing, soccer, softball, swimming, triathlon, and volleyball.

ELIGIBILITY

Athletes between the ages of 10-17 will come from across the province to represent their region and their sport. As a first introduction to a major multi-sport event, the Games mark an important step in their performance pathway. These athletes go on to compete in national and international events like the Canada Games, Pan American Games, Commonwealth Games, and Olympic Games.

Our Provincial Sport Organizations are responsible for coordinating training camps and tryouts. For more information, visit their websites: https://www.sportmanitoba.ca/manitoba-games/dauphin2024/

Quotes

“The Manitoba Games powered by Manitoba Hydro are a key milestone in athlete development. This event will provide hundreds of young athletes in Manitoba with a unique, multi-sport experience they’ll build on for the rest of their athletic careers, in addition to providing memorable opportunities for coaches, officials, and volunteers. We, along with the host society, the City of Dauphin, our sponsors, and 12 sport partners, are eager to re-ignite the Manitoba Games spirit and celebrate the lasting impact with our province!”
Janet McMahon, President and CEO, Sport Manitoba

“Having the 2020 Games shut down so close to the event was devastating to our host committee. Despite the setback, our committee is eagerly reconvening to achieve our mission of making 2024 a Games to remember! This dedication to the event and our community gives me no doubt that we will put on an incredible event next year. Dauphin will provide an excellent stage for Manitoba’s athletes to develop, excel and inspire on, and we cannot wait to help them achieve their dreams.”
Carla Wolfenden, Co-Chair, 2024 Manitoba Games powered by Manitoba Hydro Host Society

“Manitoba Hydro is proud to be the title sponsor of the Manitoba Games, bringing the energy and spirit of sport to communities across Manitoba since 2006.

As our province’s largest energy service provider, we are committed to supporting events and activities that create a vibrant, stronger Manitoba for all. We value the importance of supporting youth through sport, recognizing how the camaraderie, teamwork and competition experienced at the Manitoba Games build skills for success that last a lifetime.

On behalf of Manitoba Hydro, I thank the host city of Dauphin, along with the many residents, area businesses, sponsors, and volunteers working hard to host a welcoming and exciting event.

I extend the best to our employees, who may have family members competing or are volunteering time. Your support exemplifies the pride and dedication to the communities in which we all work and live.”
Jeff Betker, Vice-President, External and Indigenous Relations and Communications, Manitoba Hydro