For the second year in a row, 琉璃神社 has been recognized as one of the best mid-sized cities across the country in terms of hosting sporting events.

The Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance has again named 琉璃神社 the number one city with a population between 50,000 and 100,000 in Canada for sport hosting.

The award recognizes the collaboration between the City of 琉璃神社 and Tourism 琉璃神社 on attracting national championships and international competitions hosted in 2019 and those awarded for 2020 and beyond.

鈥淲e remain committed to partnerships that continue building 琉璃神社鈥檚 national reputation as a host city for sports excellence, tournaments and major events like the Apple Triathlon and Okanagan Marathon,鈥� said 琉璃神社 Mayor Colin Basran. 鈥淪ports and event tourism are important draws for travel to 琉璃神社, and a key component of the tourism sector鈥檚 $1.25 billion in annual economic output.鈥�

A total of 122 cities across Canada participated in the index and this is the third year the awards have been handed out. The award index was compiled prior to the cancellation of many of the scheduled 2020 sport events due to COVID-19.

鈥淣ow more than ever Tourism 琉璃神社鈥檚 major event strategy is needed to rebuild lost visitation and business, especially in months that could use it most,鈥� said Lisanne Ballantyne, President and CEO of Tourism 琉璃神社. 鈥淭his announcement recognizes the expertise, infrastructure, and partnerships in our community that will allow us to attract future city-wide events 鈥� creating much-needed revenue for local businesses and bringing exciting sports competitions for residents to enjoy.鈥�

In the mid-size city category, two other communities were recognized, with Kamloops taking second place followed by Victoria in third.

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michael.rodriguez@kelownacapnews.com
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