Victoria’s sporting community is commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Commonwealth Games that were held in the city. The games took place in 1994 and left a lasting impact on the region. To celebrate this milestone, organizers gathered in Victoria to acknowledge the games’ ongoing influence on Vancouver Island. The president of 94 Forward, John MacMillan, highlighted the goal of leveraging the region’s strengths to provide opportunities for coaches and athletes. Thanks to the legacy of the games, Victoria now boasts Olympic and Paralympic training facilities and has hosted numerous Canadian athletes training in various sports such as skateboarding, boxing, diving, and athletics.
To further build on the legacy of the 1994 Commonwealth Games, the Pacific Institute for Sport Education (PISE) announced an expansion of programming for youth aged 13 to 18. The organization aims to reach more teens through its ‘gift of potential’ program. Currently, only 10% of youth in this age group meet Canada’s recommended guidelines for physical activity, spending an average of four hours per day on screens. Encouraging youth to engage in athletics and join sports programs is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Sean Hayes, principal at the South Island Distance Education School, emphasized the importance of keeping students healthy and happy by involving them in physical activities as they could be potential future Olympians and Commonwealth Games participants.
Despite the positive impact of the 1994 Commonwealth Games, the future of hosting major events in Victoria remains uncertain. British Columbia submitted a bid for the 2022 Commonwealth Games, but the province was unable to provide the necessary $400 million in funding. Consequently, B.C. withdrew from the competition for the 2026 event as well. Susan Brice, a former board member post-1994 games, suggested that organizing committees and nations need to reconsider how these games are managed to share costs and legacy more effectively. However, the determination of the athletes training in Victoria remains unwavering, with a hopeful outlook for future opportunities to host international sporting events.
The Pacific Institute for Sport Education (PISE) continues to play a pivotal role in supporting youth athletes and promoting physical activity among teenagers in Victoria. The organization’s focus on expanding programming for teenagers between the ages of 13 and 18 reflects a commitment to cultivating future talent in sports. The ‘gift of potential’ program aims to engage more teens in physical activities and sports, with the hope of nurturing future Olympians and Commonwealth Games participants. By providing educational support to young elite athletes attending the Canadian Sports School, PISE contributes to the holistic development of these individuals who balance training and academics.
The legacy of the 1994 Commonwealth Games in Victoria has led to the establishment of Olympic and Paralympic training facilities in the region, attracting athletes from various sports disciplines. The games’ impact on the local sporting community continues to be felt three decades later, with organizers and stakeholders recognizing the importance of nurturing youth talent and encouraging physical activity among teenagers. Despite the challenges of securing funding for future international sporting events, the commitment of Victoria’s sporting community to support athletes and provide opportunities for young people remains steadfast. The legacy of the 1994 Commonwealth Games serves as a reminder of the transformative power of sports in shaping individuals and communities for the better.
