Mayor Frank Campion's Monthly Message: Welland
Welland is gaining quite a bit of attention on its waterway this year. The 2017 event season will be the busiest yet for the Welland International Flatwater Centre (WIFC) as it prepares to host 32 events between April and December.
Athletes from all over the world will come to Welland to compete in canoe kayak, rowing, open water swim, triathlon, dragon boat, and canoe polo. Bringing elite athletes to the canal this year will be Canoe Polo, taking place from September 8 to 10, which will also be a test-run for the ICF Canoe Polo World Championships scheduled for competition on the North Course in 2018. From community based initiatives, to training sessions, to hard fought competitions and championships; the activities around the Welland International Flatwater Centre will continue to be a catalyst for economic benefit to local businesses. More than 12,000 athletes are expected to compete on Welland’s Waterway this season.
Roughly 1500 athletes will compete at the Rose City Triathlon this June 23 to 25. Competitors Run, cycle, and swim their way through our city. These competitions are extremely competitive and require a high level of endurance.
The WIFC is also the venue of choice for local, national, and international Dragon Boat events. This year’s Canadian Dragon Boat Championships will be held on August 3 to 6, and will bring 2000 athletes to Welland, along with excited spectators to cheer on the competitors. This multicultural event is something the entire family will enjoy. If you haven’t witnessed the fierce competition on the waterway, pack a lunch, bring the family, and pay a visit to Welland’ state-of-the-art International Flatwater Centre.
