Banff, Canmore to host Alberta Winter Games

Banff and Canmore have been chosen as the host communities for the Alberta Winter Games in 2014.

Athletes ranging in age from 11 to 17 will compete in winter sports, as well as some indoor sports, including volleyball, rhythmic gymnastics and wrestling.

"Hosting the Alberta Winter Games will enable Banff and Canmore to showcase their amazing sport and recreation facilities to athletes across the province," said Kay Kenny, chair of the Alberta Sport, Recreation, Parks and Wildlife Foundation, which operates the games on behalf of the government.

More than 3,000 athletes, coaches and officials are expected to attend the games, which are Albertas largest multi-sport competition, officials said. The province is putting up more than $400,000 in funding for the event.

The Alberta Winter Games are held every two years and serve as a launching ground for many national - and international -level athletes from Alberta.

The2012competition will be held on Feb. 9 to 12 in the Tri-Region West of Edmonton, which includes the city of Spruce Grove, the town of Stony Plain and Parkland County.