For Immediate Release
May 29, 2008  

2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games
Venues Announced

(May 29, 2008) Boise, Idaho – World Winter Games CEO and Chairman Chip Fisher announced today the confirmation of dates and venues for the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games.  The 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games will be held February 7-13, 2009, and competition events will take place at the following venues:

Additionally, Opening and Closing Ceremonies will be held at the Idaho Center in Nampa, Idaho.

“This announcement is another step in the right direction for the World Winter Games,” said Fisher.  “We are making great progress in the planning stages and preparing to put on the best Games the world has ever seen.” 

“The 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games is the opportunity of a lifetime, placing Idaho on the world’s stage,” said Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter.  “The inclusion of venues across southwestern Idaho will give the Games a greater reach, allowing more Idaho residents the opportunity to be a part of this epic event, something we should all be proud to support as Idahoans.  Between the scenic beauty of our state and the hospitality of our people, there is no doubt in my mind that when Idaho welcomes the world next year, our state will shine.”  

Though some venues have been altered including Opening and Closing Ceremonies sites, as well as Floor Hockey, Snowboarding and Snowshoeing, the goal of these changes is to ensure that all competitions are conducted at the best suited venues that meet the needs of the athletes and guests, as well as to better serve the needs required to host these world class events.

“After careful consideration, I am confident we have chosen the best venues and locations to serve as successful sites for this world-class event,” said Fisher.  “There are opportunities for communities around the state to get involved and we look forward to welcoming the world to Idaho.”

With the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games venues finalized, the state of Idaho continues to prepare for the arrival of international athletes, delegates, coaches, families, officials and fans that will travel to Idaho for the Games this February. 

“Hosting the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games creates a rare and wonderful opportunity for Idaho to host visitors from around the world,” said Bobbie Patterson, Executive Director, Boise Convention & Visitors Bureau.  “Selecting competition venues in different parts of the state will allow more Idaho residents to take an active part in these Games, both as volunteers and spectators.  The economic impact of the Games will be significant, but the lasting memories will have the highest value to our state and its people.” 

About the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games:              
The 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games will be held in Idaho, USA, February 7-13, 2009 and will include up to 3,000 athletes from more than 100 countries and 6,000 volunteers. Competition will take place in seven winter sports – Alpine Skiing, Cross-Country Skiing, Figure Skating, Floor Hockey, Snowboarding, Snowshoeing and Speed Skating. Competition and other activities will take place in communities and venues throughout Idaho. Visit the official 2009 World Games web site.

Find out who is selected as alpine assistant coach.

Find out who is selected as cross country assistant coach.

Find out which athletes will go from Montana.

About Special Olympics
Special Olympics is an international organization that changes lives by promoting understanding, acceptance and inclusion between people with and without intellectual disabilities. Through year-round sports training and athletic competition and other related programming for 1.4 million children and adults with intellectual disabilities in more than 150 countries, Special Olympics has created a model community that celebrates people's diverse gifts. Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Special Olympics provides people with intellectual disabilities continuing opportunities to realize their potential, develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy and friendship. There is no cost to participate in Special Olympics.

CONTACT:
Justine Sgalio, Manager, Media Relations and Communications
2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games
208.919.1062
Justine.Sgalio@2009WorldGames.org
www.2009WorldGames.org