Future of X Games in Calgary up in the air

CALGARY (660 NEWS) – It’s not a “no” forever, but rather just this time for the Winter X Games.

Funding promised by the previous NDP government has been pulled for at least the 2020 games following the UCP’s budget announcement last week.

Calgary won a bid to host part of the X Games for three consecutive years on the condition of lining up corporate sponsorships.

WATCH: X (Games) marks the spot for Calgary

Senior VP of Sales for Tourism Calgary Carson Ackroyd said while it’s unfortunate the province won’t commit to funding the 2020 X Games, they are doubling down on 2021 and hoping to make it an annual event.

“They are open to having us come back and having a follow-up discussion on commitment to supporting the event. It’s our job to come back to them and show them the finalized plan and the investments and commitments that have been made to support it.”

The Calgary event would be in addition to the main X Games in Aspen, Colorado that occurs annually.

READ MORE: Calgary to secure rights for Winter X Games

Tourism Calgary and proponents for the Calgary X Games estimate it will bring $75 million to the local economy.

“The return the province would get on the exposure and the visitation for this event and the $75-million economic impact will be a very positive investment,” said Ackroyd. “We’re looking forward to working with them and having them consider that investment on behalf of the province.”

During the announcement of the games in March, plans were unveiled for a 14-storey big air ramp at the Stampede Grandstand and half-pipe ski events at Winsport.

At the time, the city committed over $1 million to secure the games while the province pledged $13.5 million.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today