By Janice Cougle, Senior Participation Lead
This summer has proven to be an exhilarating season for sports in Nova Scotia, with the province serving as the host for six significant national tournaments and events since May. The influx of more than 1,800 athletes from across Canada has brought a heightened level of competition and enthusiasm, underscoring Nova Scotia’s role as a vibrant hub for national sporting excellence.
The series of events commenced with the senior national championships for Goalball, held from May 3-5 at the Citadel Community Centre in Halifax. This was followed by the Canadian senior weightlifting championships from May 17-19, also in Halifax, which showcased the strength and precision of weightlifters from across the country.
The summer continued with the Canadian XCO and XXC (mountain bike) championships, which took place from July 18-21 in Kentville. On July 20, Rissers Beach was the venue for the national beach sprint selection trials in coastal rowing, providing a picturesque backdrop for this new sport.
The latter part of July and early August featured the Canadian rugby under-19 championships, held from July 29 to Aug. 4 at Acadia University in Wolfville. This event drew young rugby talent from across the nation, fostering competitive spirit and sportsmanship. Concurrently, the Baseball Canada male 22U national championship was held from Aug. 1-4 in Halifax and Dartmouth.
The summer’s sporting calendar concluded with the Canadian nationals for Pickleball, held from Aug. 20-24 at the Sobeys Atlantic Tennis Centre in Bedford, the first time this event has been held on the East Coast.
Hosting national events is a tradition for Nova Scotia, but each occasion remains a exciting opportunity for local communities and athletes alike. Mike Todd, executive director of Cycling Nova Scotia, expressed the significance of these events.
“These types of opportunities, especially in our backyard, don’t come around every day. Our N.S. athletes rose to the occasion and put on an amazing show for everyone across the country.”
Brandon Guenette, executive director of Baseball Nova Scotia, highlighted the community’s role: “Any time we have a community in Nova Scotia take on the responsibility of hosting a national championship, participants from around the country can expect a fantastic experience. It’s always exciting for the baseball community to play host to the country’s best.”
These events serve as a source of inspiration for the next generation of athletes, Vanessa MacKinnon, executive director of Rugby Nova Scotia, noted.
“Having these events in our own region gave younger athletes an opportunity to see what their pathway for development could be. It also allowed those competing locally a chance to perform on a national stage in front of family and friends, which is a rare and special experience.”
