The 2010 Ontario Winter Games Muskoka bid results are expected in early April.

The bid was an effort put forth by  all communities across Muskoka, and included our northern friends in Sudbury. Organizations from Chambers, Economic Development offices, and sport and recreation departments came together recognizing the benefits of such an event to our area.

The preparation of the bid, along with the site evaluation by the Sport Alliance of Ontario, brought like-minded individuals together to promote our communities and provide an opportunity for youth in Ontario to discover the magic of Muskoka.

While there are many events across our country that would be best hosted in Muskoka, this team believes that the 2010 Ontario Winter Games would be a great opportunity to begin what could be a direct and indirect boost to our economy and social growth.

The benefits of Sport and Event Tourism to Muskoka are numerous:

Economic Benefits: Direct Event Spending, Increased visitor expenditures, Media exposure and community imaging

Employment Benefits: Business development  

Social Benefits: Volunteer development, Active involvement and Community pride Facility Legacies: Facility improvements and the building of new facilities  

One of the benefits rarely discussed includes seeing our Muskoka communities working together; erasing the boundaries in Muskoka, and co-operating to achieve our common goals.

Huntsville and Lake of Bays Event Tourism Committee looks forward to developing relationships across Muskoka to bring more events and activity to our area during our shoulder season.

The mandate includes soliciting events that have a low impact on our environment and our existing facilities.

If you are interested in becoming involved, contact the Huntsville/Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce. Watch our new website www.huntsvilleadventures.com to learn more.