Let the Games Begin

Red Deer College’s main campus was electric from February 15 to March 3, 2019. As a proud partner with the 2019 Canada Winter Games, RDC welcomed thousands of athletes, along with coaches, trainers, families and spectators from across the nation.

In our Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre/Centre des Jeux du Canada Gary W. Harris, RDC hosted five events that had thrilling finishes for the athletes and enthusiastic fans. The crashing action of Wheelchair Basketball delighted fans during the first week of the Games, with Team Alberta winning gold in front of an appreciative home crowd in the final game. In the Arena, the fast-paced Short Track Speed Skating took place, with athletes showing their blistering speed and strength.

The facility was transformed for week two. The Fas Gas – On The Run Gymnasium became a badminton venue with five courts and athletes demonstrated their accuracy and athleticism during intense rallies. The Larkaun Homes Squash Courts were surrounded by temporary bleachers filled with spectators during the exceptional individual and team competitions. And in the Arena, artistry and strength was on full display as figure skaters performed their programs.

RDC was also the Athletes’ Village, and approximately 3,600 athletes, ranging in age from 11 to 23 years old, called main campus home during the Games. Half of the athletes were at RDC during week one and, in an incredible logistical feat, all of these athletes moved out and the remaining athletes moved in during the turnaround day on February 23.

In addition, many members of our College community also worked as Games volunteers at RDC and throughout the city. Thanks to RDC’s staff, faculty, students, partners and alumni, our College was an important part of the 2019 Canada Winter Games. We welcomed people from across the nation and showed them the spirit and enthusiasm of central Albertans.