VancouVer Information 2010

Transcription

1 VancouVer 2010 Information 2010 english June 2008

2 MISSION To touch the soul of the nation and inspire the world by creating and delivering an extraordinary Olympic and Paralympic experience with lasting legacies. VISION A stronger Canada whose spirit is raised by its passion for sport, culture and sustainability. VALUES Team Trust Excellence Sustainability Creativity Your number one source of information on the 2010 Winter Games Visit vancouver2010.com for the latest on: tickets, athletes, sports, venues and schedules news releases, official reports and feature stories mascots, torch relays, Cultural Olympiad and school portal /EDU videos, games and activities for kids how to stay up-to-date with Vancouver 2010 through subscriptions Get engaged and stay in touch with vancouver2010.com

3 Table of Contents 1. VANCOUVER 2010 ORGANIZING COMMITTEE UPDATE 2. Corporate Overview The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games 2.2 VANOC s Strategic Objectives Vancouver 2010 Business Plan and Games Budget 2.4 Bid History Previous Olympic and Paralympic Games in Canada 3. Government and First Nations Partners Canada Host Country The 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Federal Secretariat 3.3 British Columbia Host Province BC 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Secretariat Legacies Now First Nations Aboriginal Participation in the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games 4. Venue Locations Vancouver Host City Whistler Host Mountain Resort City of Richmond Venue City City of Surrey Venue City District of West Vancouver Sport Partners Canadian Olympic Committee Canadian Paralympic Committee IOC Coordination Commission VANOC Executive Team VANOC Board of Directors Vancouver 2010 Official Emblems The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games Emblem 9.2 The Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games Emblem 10. Sustainability Sponsors Sport Olympic Winter Games Sport Program Paralympic Winter Games Sport Program Paralympic Winter Games Classifications International Sport Federations Olympic and Paralympic Winter Sport Program Own the Podium Winter Games Venues Venue Investment 24 Continued on the following page June 10,

4 Table of Contents 14.2 Vancouver Venues Overview Whistler Venues Overview Paralympic Venues Overview Venue Distances Vancouver Competition Venue Cluster Details Whistler Competition Venue Cluster Details Competition Venue and Sport Facts Cypress Mountain Canada Hockey Place Vancouver Olympic/Paralympic Centre Pacific Coliseum Richmond Oval UBC Thunderbird Arena Whistler Creekside Whistler Olympic/Paralympic Park The Whistler Sliding Centre Non-Competition Venues Ceremonies Venues Media Centres Main Media Centre Whistler Broadcast and Press Centre Olympic and Paralympic Villages Olympic and Paralympic Villages Quick Facts Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic Village Whistler Olympic and Paralympic Village Whistler Athletes Centre Accommodation Transportation Ground Transportation Vancouver International Airport (YVR) Canada Line Rapid Transit Sea to Sky Highway Security Medical Services Anti-Doping Culture and Ceremonies Cultural Olympiad Olympic Arts Festival Paralympic Arts Festival Visiting Artists Ceremonies Welcome Ceremonies for Athletes Opening and Closing Ceremonies Victory Ceremonies Education mascots Torch Relays Olympic Torch Relay Olympic Torch Relay Emblem Paralympic Torch Relay Ticketing Quick facts ABOUT THE 2010 WINTER GAMES 51 This edition of Information 2010 includes updates as of June 10, For the latest developments, visit vancouver2010.com. All dollar figures in this update are expressed in Canadian funds. 2 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

5 1. VANCOUVER 2010 ORGANIZING COMMITTEE UPDATE In less than two short years, Canada will welcome the world s best winter athletes to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. As such, the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) is travelling rapidly down the road to Games time towards the goal of staging stellar Games that will touch the soul of Canada and inspire the world by creating an extraordinary Olympic and Paralympic experience with lasting legacies. This edition of Information 2010 provides an overview of the Organizing Committee, its partners and the Games host region while offering updated information on Games venues, sports and other areas that are key to hosting the Games in This year has been an important one for the Organizing Committee as we move rapidly into operating mode. To receive the very latest information about the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, visit vancouver2010. com. Sign up to receive one of our regular updates about key Games topics, including the Torch Relay, ticketing and volunteering. 2. CORPORATE OVERVIEW 2.1 The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) was established on September 30, The Committee s mandate is to support and promote the development of sport in Canada by planning, organizing, financing and staging the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. VANOC is guided by a 20-member board of directors nominated by the Government of Canada, the Province of British Columbia, the City of Vancouver, the Resort Municipality of Whistler, the Canadian Olympic Committee, the Canadian Paralympic Committee and local First Nations. The VANOC mission is to touch the soul of Canada and inspire the world by creating and delivering an extraordinary Olympic and Paralympic experience with lasting legacies. The vision is to build a stronger Canada whose spirit is raised by its passion for sport, culture and sustainability. The XXI Olympic Winter Games will be staged in Vancouver and Whistler from February 12 to 28, The X Paralympic Winter Games will be staged in Vancouver and Whistler from March 12 to 21, Visit vancouver 2010.com. June 10,

6 2.2 VANOC s Strategic Objectives VANOC seeks to meet the following seven strategic objectives, designed to ensure it is a well-run, financially responsible organization that serves all its customers to: engage the nation by sharing the journey to create a distinctly Canadian Olympic and Paralympic experience create the conditions that will provide an extraordinary experience for athletes and all Games participants build a team that passionately lives our values in order to achieve extraordinary performance take responsibility for successful relationships with all of our partners in order to optimize their participation in, contribution to and legacy from Canada s Games generate sufficient revenue and manage costs and risk in order to ensure a positive financial legacy be a disciplined and entrepreneurial organization with sound business processes, controls and tools that enable us to effectively manage the business of planning and staging the Games manage the social, environmental, and economic impact and opportunities of our Games, in ways that will create lasting benefits, locally and globally The Games Operating Budget is financed by revenue sources from the private sector. These sources include a portion of the worldwide sale of Games television broadcast rights, international and domestic sponsorships, licensing and merchandising, ticket sales and fundraising. The Games Venue Development Budget is made up of equal contributions from the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia. Games Revenue Sources 26% 74% Private funding: 74% Public Funding: 26% 2.3 Vancouver 2010 Business Plan and Games Budget VANOC is responsible for two key areas relating to the 2010 Winter Games: the construction of Games venues, and the delivery of successful Games on behalf of all Canadians. There are two budget areas, each with different revenue sources. 4 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

7 The Vancouver 2010 Winter Games Operating Budget The current operating budget to stage the 2010 Winter Games is $1,629,269,000. This is net of $197,217,000 in marketing royalty rights from its revenue that will be paid to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and Canadian Olympic Committee (COC). Revenue sources for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games are as follows: REVENUE SOURCE $ IOC Contribution 579,700,000 Less cost of providing Olympic Broadcast Services (OBS) (178,000,000) IOC Net contribution 401,700,000 Other IOC revenue 35,000,000 IOC International Sponsorship Program 201,404,000 The budget for Games operating expenditures, by division, is as follows: DIVISION $ Revenue, Marketing and Communications 126,427,000 Sport, Paralympic Games and Venue Management 186,436,000 Service Operations and Ceremonies 548,130,000 Technology and Systems 398,500,000 Human Resources, Sustainability and International Client Services 153,144,000 Finance and Legal and CEO Office 116,632,000 Project Contingency Games Operations 100,000,000 Total expenditures 1,629,269,000 Domestic Sponsorship 760,000,000 Ticketing 231,854,000 Source: Business Plan and Games Budget, released May 8, 2007 Licensing and Merchandising 46,026,000 Paralympic revenue 40,000,000 Other 110,502,000 TOTAL REVENUE 1,826,486,000 Less: Marketing rights royalties (197,217,000) NET REVENUE 1,629,269,000 June 10,

8 Venue Development (Construction) Budget The budget for building new venues and renovating existing facilities in order to stage the 2010 Winter Games is $580 million, as outlined in the table below. This is funded equally by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia. Venue construction revenues $ Canada 290,000,000 BC 290,000,000 Total 580,000,000 Venue construction expenditures Venues constructed by Partners with VANOC $ Contribution UBC Ice Hockey arena 1 38,445,000 Richmond Speed Skating Oval 63,110,000 Whistler Olympic and Paralympic 37,500,000 (Athletes) Village Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic 30,000,000 (Athletes) Village Whistler Broadcast and Press Centre 3,000,000 Training Venues / Other Grants 7,400,000 Venues constructed / upgraded by VANOC Hillcrest Curling Venue 2 38,000,000 Whistler Athlete Centre 16,000,000 Whistler Sliding Centre 104,900,000 Whistler Nordic Competition Venue 3 119,740,000 Cypress Freestyle and Snowboard Venue 15,800,000 Whistler Alpine (Whistler Creekside) 27,635,000 Hastings Park Skating Venue 23,700,000 (Pacific Coliseum) Other 6,270,000 Subtotal 531,500,000 Contingency 55,300,000 Less: Sponsor VIK Contribution (6,800,000) TOTAL 580,000, Bid History In the 1960s, the Vancouver-Whistler region began its quest to host the Olympic Winter Games. In 1970, the region was accepted as a finalist to host the 1976 Olympic Winter Games, which were eventually staged by Innsbruck, Austria. In 1998, the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) selected Vancouver to present Canada s bid for the 2010 Winter Games. Over a fiveyear period, the Vancouver 2010 Bid Corporation developed a Games delivery plan with the vision of creating sustainable legacies for athletes, sport development, host communities and the Olympic and Paralympic Movements. On July 2, 2003, members of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), at their 115th Session in Prague, selected Vancouver as the Host City of the 2010 Winter Games from a field of three Candidate Cities that included Salzburg, Austria and PyeongChang, South Korea. 2.5 Previous Olympic and Paralympic Games in Canada Canada has twice hosted the Olympic Games. In 1976, Montreal, Quebec was the site of the Olympic Summer Games that featured more than 6,000 athletes from 92 nations. In 1988, Calgary, Alberta was the site of the Olympic Winter Games that featured more than 1,400 athletes from 57 nations. Canada hosted the Paralympic Games in 1976 in Toronto. This event marked the first Paralympic Games at which athletes not in a wheelchair were included in the sport program. 1 This venue was also known as the UBC Winter Sports Centre. Its official name is UBC Thunderbird Arena. 2 This venue was also known as Hillcrest/Nat Bailey Stadium Park. Its official name is the Vancouver Olympic Centre/Vancouver Paralympic Centre. 3 This venue in now know officially as Whistler Olympic Park/Whistler Paralympic Park. 6 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

9 3. GOVERNMENT AND FIRST NATIONS PARTNERS VANOC s Government Partners include the Government of Canada, the Province of British Columbia, the City of Vancouver and the Resort Municipality of Whistler. The partners are participating in a number of areas to help stage the Games from venue construction to the delivery of essential services. 3.1 Canada Host Country Canada is a living mosaic of peoples and cultures from around the world. Over centuries, people from virtually every country in the world have joined Canada s First Nations, making Canadian society truly multicultural. This is reflected in Canada s national policies and constitution from its official bilingualism to its protection of rights and freedoms for all and in Canada s international outlook. Clear and well-established jurisdictions between the country s different levels of government facilitate effective decision-making for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Human rights are guaranteed through a modern constitution that includes a Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Canada is committed to bilingualism (English and French) and multiculturalism. Tolerance and diversity are central to its national character. Canada has a long tradition of opening its arms to the peoples of the world. 3.2 The 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Federal Secretariat The 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Federal Secretariat, part of the Department of Canadian Heritage, is the focal point for the Government of Canada s participation in the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver and Whistler. Federal involvement in the 2010 Winter Games includes the coordination and delivery of essential services for the Games, such as security, customs and immigration. The federal government also strives to ensure the Games leave sustainable athletic, social, cultural and economic opportunities and legacies for all Canadians. The 2010 Winter Games Federal Secretariat works closely with VANOC and with major Games stakeholders, to provide leadership, advice and support to interdepartmental and intergovernmental engagement in 2010 and related initiatives. 3.3 British Columbia Host Province Located on Canada s west coast, the province of British Columbia (BC) is Canada s third largest province, covering 944,735 square kilometres. It has a vast and varied landscape, made up of coastal fjords, snow-capped mountain peaks, lush valleys and desert expanses. The province s major industries are tourism, fishing, mining, hydroelectricity and forestry, with the addition of industries such as eco-tourism, film and high-tech over the last decade. British Columbia is known for its diverse population. More than 40 major Aboriginal cultural groups are represented in the region. The province s large Asian communities have made Chinese and Punjabi the most-spoken languages after English. There are also sizeable German, Italian, Japanese and Russian communities, all creating a vibrant culture. June 10,

10 3.4 BC 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Secretariat Falling within the BC Ministry of Economic Development portfolio, the British Columbia 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Secretariat (BC Secretariat) is the provincial agency responsible for overseeing British Columbia s 2010 Winter Games financial commitments and ensuring British Columbia s Olympic and Paralympic Games vision is achieved Legacies Now 2010 Legacies Now is a not-for-profit society that works in partnership with community organizations, non-government organizations, the private sector and all levels of government to develop legacies in sport and recreation, arts, literacy and volunteerism Legacies Now actively assists communities throughout British Columbia to discover and create unique and inclusive social and economic opportunities leading up to and beyond the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. 3.6 First Nations In 1982, Canada became the first country in the world to constitutionally establish the rights of Aboriginal peoples. Canada s Charter of Rights and Freedoms states, the existing Aboriginal and treaty rights of the Aboriginal peoples of Canada are hereby recognized and affirmed. Canada has recognized, as a matter of policy, the inherent right to Aboriginal self-government. Through treaties or treaty-like agreements, First Nations are negotiating the power to govern their own affairs and interests in their traditional territories, while participating fully in Canadian national life. The 2010 Winter Games will take place in the traditional territories of the Lil wat, Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, known collectively as the Four Host First Nations. 3.7 Aboriginal Participation in the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games For the first time in Olympic and Paralympic Games history, Aboriginal participation is a specific function of an Olympic and Paralympic Games organizing committee. VANOC is encouraging Aboriginal peoples from British Columbia and across Canada to participate in as many areas of the 2010 Winter Games as possible: as athletes, volunteers, employees, entrepreneurs, artists and performers, spectators and cultural ambassadors. The Organizing Committee is working closely with the Lil wat, Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations, known collectively as the Four Host First Nations, to achieve unprecedented Aboriginal participation in the planning and hosting of the Games. The Four Host First Nations have been recognized by the IOC as official partners in the 2010 Games, marking the first time in Olympic and Paralympic history that indigenous peoples have been recognized in this way. Together with the Four Host First Nations, VANOC is working with other First Nation, Inuit and Métis groups throughout Canada in the planning and hosting of the Games. The goals of VANOC s Aboriginal Participation department fall into five key areas: Partnerships and Collaboration recognize and respect our partners, the Four Host First Nations, and directly involve them in key aspects of Games planning, hosting and legacies together with the Four Host First Nations, encourage Aboriginal peoples across Canada to participate in and benefit from the 2010 Winter Games 8 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

11 Sport and Youth encourage greater Aboriginal participation in sport, identify and develop talented Aboriginal athletes and support the development of Aboriginal coaches and leaders Economic Development maximize opportunities for Aboriginal people to find jobs, win contracts, develop business partnerships and promote Aboriginal tourism Cultural Involvement recognize and celebrate Aboriginal history, arts, culture and languages Awareness and Education raise awareness of the opportunities for Aboriginal people to participate in the Winter Games build understanding of the diversity and contributions of Aboriginal peoples in Canada 4. VENUE LOCATIONS The 2010 Winter Games will be staged in Vancouver, Whistler, Richmond, Surrey and West Vancouver. 4.1 Vancouver Host City Founded in 1886, the city of Vancouver is home to 600,000 citizens. Including the surrounding communities, the population of Greater Vancouver is approximately 2.2 million. As the main western terminus of Canada s transcontinental highway and rail routes, Vancouver is one of the nation s largest industrial centres. For five consecutive years, Vancouver has ranked best place to live in the world of 132 cities in an annual survey by the Economist Intelligence Unit, the business information arm of The Economist Group, publisher of The Economist magazine. With the ocean at its feet and the mountain wilderness at its back, the city of Vancouver is deeply committed to environmental sustainability. The city is also a major tourist destination. In addition to the city s scenic location, visitors enjoy beautiful gardens and more than 180 parks, including world-famous Stanley Park, a combination of natural forest and parkland near the city centre. For three consecutive years, Condé Nast Traveler magazine readers voted Vancouver the Best City in the Americas. Vancouver has proven its unique talents for hosting major events with great style, enthusiasm and competence. Vancouver has successfully hosted a variety of international events, including: EXPO 86 World s Fair 1987 Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference 1996 International AIDS Conference 2001 World Figure Skating Championships Vancouver 2010 is committed to achieving an unprecedented level of Aboriginal participation in all aspects of the Games World Junior Hockey Championships (along with the BC Interior cities of Kamloops and Kelowna) 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup (along with Burnaby, Ottawa, Montreal, Edmonton and Toronto) Globe 2008 (a global conference on business and the environment) June 10,

12 Parks and Facilities two major indoor ice arenas that each seat more than 15,000 people a covered stadium with 60,000 seats 8 ice rinks and 24 community centres 183 parks, including Stanley Park (405 hectares) 9 golf courses, 14 swimming pools (indoor and outdoor) and 181 tennis courts 4.2 Whistler Host Mountain Resort Vancouver s oceanfront setting is complemented by Whistler, one of the foremost alpine ski resorts in North America, with world-class facilities and an intimate, pedestrian-friendly village. Incorporated in 1975, the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) is home to more than 9,500 permanent residents and 2,300 seasonal residents. Whistler has the largest ski area in North America, with more than 3,300 hectares of skiable terrain. Whistler Mountain opened in 1966 and Blackcomb Mountain opened in In 1992, Snow Country magazine voted Whistler/Blackcomb the top ski resort in North America. Since then, various publications have continued to award top designations to the resort. Whistler has 551 hectares of parkland, more than 100 kilometres of mountain bike trails and 15 public tennis courts. The elevation of Whistler Village is 668 metres. The Blackcomb Mountain peak is 2,284 metres and the Whistler Mountain peak is 2,182 metres. The mountains are in the Pacific Range of the Coast Mountains. Approximately two million people visit the resort each year. 4.3 City of Richmond Venue City Richmond is a culturally diverse and geographically unique community located 20 minutes south of downtown Vancouver and 25 minutes north of the United States border. The site of the speed skating oval for the 2010 Winter Games, Richmond is sometimes referred to as the gateway to British Columbia because it is home to Vancouver International Airport. With a population of more than 185,400, Richmond has been experiencing growth and change with remarkable speed, transforming from a rural, local community to a multi-faceted international city. Once a fishing, canning and agricultural centre, Richmond is now a modern, multicultural city with a mix of urban, suburban and rural settings. It has more than 90 parks, an extensive recreational trail system and a wide variety of recreational amenities and cultural facilities. 4.4 City of Surrey Venue City Surrey became part of the Vancouver 2010 family in May 2008, when it was officially designated a Venue City. Surrey will help welcome the world to the Games in It will be home to the Games Preparation Centre a facility that will play a key role in recruiting many Games volunteers. Beyond the Games, Surrey residents will benefit enormously as the centre is transformed into a recreational facility. Surrey is situated near Vancouver and other 2010 Winter Games venues. 4.5 District of West Vancouver A short trip over Burrard Inlet from downtown Vancouver, scenic West Vancouver has a population of approximately 43,300 people and is home to Cypress Mountain, host of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games freestyle skiing and snowboard events. West Vancouver has some of the most beautiful parks and open space in the Lower Mainland. From forested mountains to rocky shoreline, West Vancouver provides a diverse landscape for a variety of recreational opportunities. Natural park areas, including Cypress Provincial Park to the north, frame the community. The West Vancouver Parks Department manages and maintains approximately 110 parks for recreational use. In addition, there are more than 100 kilometres of urban and wilderness paths and trails that connect the waterfront, open spaces and parks to the community. Cypress Mountain boasts spectacular views of the city, the fjords of Howe Sound and the ocean horizon. 10 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

13 5. SPORT PARTNERS 5.1 Canadian Olympic Committee The Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) is a private, not-for-profit corporation and the largest private sector funder of high-performance sport in Canada. First recognized by the International Olympic Committee in 1907, the COC has evolved into a multi-faceted sport organization providing financial support, services and leadership to the Canadian amateur high-performance sport community. The COC is responsible for Canada s involvement in the Olympic Movement, including: Canada s participation in the Olympic and Pan American Games managing a wide variety of cultural and educational programs promoting Olympic values in Canada grassroots programs where communities develop and promote Olympic values at all levels selecting and supporting Canadian cities in bids to host Olympic Summer, Olympic Winter and Pan American Games 5.2 Canadian Paralympic Committee The Canadian Paralympic Committee (CPC) is a not-for-profit, charitable, private corporation recognized by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) as the national Paralympic committee of Canada. The mission of the Canadian Paralympic Committee is to develop and grow the Paralympic Movement in Canada. 6. IOC COORDINATION COMMISSION The Olympic Games Coordination Commission is formed shortly after the election of a host city to oversee and assist the Organizing Committee in the planning, construction and implementation of the Olympic Games. The Coordination Commission acts as a liaison between the IOC, the Organizing Committee, the International Federations (IFs) and the National Olympic Committees (NOCs). The commission includes representatives of the IOC, the IPC the IFs, the NOCs, an athlete representative and experts in the fields of media, environment and TV technology. Members of the Coordination Commission for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games are: René Fasel, Chairman, Switzerland Fraser Bullock, USA Ottavio Cinquanta, Italy Gian-Franco Kasper, Switzerland Gunilla Lindberg, Sweden José Luis Marco, Argentina HRH the Prince of Orange, Netherlands Tsunekazu Takeda, Japan Rita Van Driel, Netherlands Pernilla Wiberg, Sweden June 10,

14 7. VANOC EXECUTIVE TEAM The Executive Team is responsible for overseeing eight divisions and more than 50 Games functions. John Furlong, Chief Executive Officer Dave Cobb, Executive Vice President; Revenue, Marketing and Communications division Dan Doyle, Executive Vice President; Venue Construction division 8. VANOC BOARD OF DIRECTORS The VANOC Board of Directors is made up of 20 members nominated by: the Canadian Olympic Committee (seven); the Government of Canada (three); the Province of British Columbia (three); the City of Vancouver (two); the Resort Municipality of Whistler (two); the Canadian Paralympic Committee (one); a joint appointment by the Band Councils of the Lil wat and Squamish Nations (one); and one member nominated by the other 19 members. David Guscott, Executive Vice President; Celebrations and Partnerships division John McLaughlin, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer; Finance division Cathy Priestner Allinger, Executive Vice President; Sport and Games Operations division, Technology division Donna Wilson, Executive Vice President; Workforce and Sustainability division Terry Wright, Executive Vice President; Services and Games Operations division Biographies of VANOC s executive team members are available at vancouver2010.com. Member Jack Poole, Chairman Peter Brown Michael Chambers Charmaine Crooks Ken Dobell Barrett Fisher Jacques Gauthier Jim Godfrey Rusty Goepel Gibby Jacob Patrick Jarvis Jeff Mooney Michael Phelps Richard Pound Judy Rogers Chris Rudge Beckie Scott Walter Sieber Carol Stephenson Richard Turner nominated by VANOC Board Government of Canada Canadian Olympic Committee Canadian Olympic Committee Province of British Columbia Resort Municipality of Whistler Government of Canada Resort Municipality of Whistler Province of British Columbia Squamish and Lil wat First Nations Canadian Paralympic Committee City of Vancouver Canadian Olympic Committee Canadian Olympic Committee City of Vancouver Canadian Olympic Committee Canadian Olympic Committee Canadian Olympic Committee Government of Canada Province of British Columbia Biographies of VANOC board members are available at vancouver2010.com. 12 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

15 9. VANCOUVER 2010 OFFICIAL EMBLEMS Vancouver 2010 has two official emblems. They are presented together to show VANOC s integrated approach towards the staging of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. is strong and unwavering. Traditionally, the inukshuk was the creation of a group of people working towards one goal, hoping to serve others with their legacy. This describes VANOC s vision for the Olympic Games. The emblem was chosen by an international judging panel from more than 1,600 entries from every region of Canada in the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Emblem design competition. Rivera Design Group of Vancouver submitted the design, created by a team that included company principal and creative director Elena Rivera MacGregor and designer Gonzalo Alatorre. 9.1 The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games Emblem For centuries, the Inuit people of Canada s Arctic have stacked rock formations to create the inukshuk, a guidepost that provided direction across the vast horizons of the North. Over time, the inukshuk has become a symbol of hope and friendship, an eternal expression of the hospitality of a nation that opens its arms to the world s people every day. The Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games Emblem, introduced in April 2005, is a contemporary interpretation of the traditional inukshuk. The distinctive rock formations are found across the country from coastlines to mountaintops, from small towns to large cities in a variety of styles. The emblem offers the welcome of a nation shaped by its rich natural and cultural diversity. Its colours reflect both Canada and the host region: the blue sea, sky and Coast Mountains; the green forests; the red maple leaf; and the golden sunrises that paint the city skyline and the snow-capped peaks from Vancouver to Whistler. 9.2 The Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games Emblem In September 2005, VANOC selected Karacters Design Group, the integrated design and branding division of DDB Canada, to design the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games Emblem, which was introduced in September The Vancouver 2010 Paralympic Winter Games Emblem represents the spirit of the host region and country, the Paralympic athlete s journey, and the harmony that exists between the athlete, their sport and the environment. The emblem captures the image of Vancouver and Whistler s lush coastal forests, dramatic mountains and the majestic sky a natural theatre that will inspire Paralympians as they reach the pinnacle of sport and human achievement in The emblem also reflects the athletes mountainous inner strength and personal transformation as they push themselves to new heights in the pursuit of excellence. A dynamic human form is created by the valley, mountains and sun of the West Coast. This design honours that harmonious relationship by suggesting that the athlete and the mountain are one. Like the athletes and the Games, the emblem s strength comes from the teamwork and collaboration of many. Each stone relies on the other to support the whole, yet the unified structure June 10,

16 10. SUSTAINABILITY For VANOC, sustainability means managing the social, economic and environmental impacts and opportunities of the 2010 Winter Games to produce lasting benefits, locally and globally. VANOC established a set of six corporate-wide sustainability performance objectives. These objectives are based on Vancouver 2010 Bid commitments, best management practices of other Organizing Committees and input from sustainability experts, key partners and stakeholders. They are now an integral part of VANOC s strategic and business plans. VANOC s sustainability objectives are: Accountability to behave ethically, set measurable performance targets and communicate openly about our progress and challenges to consult with external groups affected by our activities Environmental Stewardship and Impact Reduction to conserve natural environments and manage, mitigate and offset negative impacts Social Inclusion and Responsibility to convene accessible Games that have a positive impact on socially and economically disadvantaged groups that otherwise would not benefit to care for VANOC s workforce, protect human rights and ensure health and safety Aboriginal Participation and Collaboration to partner with the Four Host First Nations to achieve an unprecedented level of Aboriginal participation in the Games Economic Benefits to demonstrate that sustainable innovation and practice makes good business sense Sport for Sustainable Living to use sport, and growing athlete and public interest in living more sustainably, to inspire action on local and global sustainability challenges VANOC has committed to preparing five annual reports on sustainability. The first two reports are available at vancouver2010.com. 14 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

17 11. SPONSORS The Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games could not take place without sponsors. VANOC s marketing program is focused on securing mutually rewarding partnerships with shared values to generate sufficient revenue to host successful Games and to leave a financial legacy for sport. In addition to the direct revenue generated by sponsors, each sponsor s products, technology and expertise are vital to the success of the 2010 Winter Games. As of June 1, 2008, VANOC has met 94 per cent of its domestic sponsorship revenue target. Through their commitment and support, the Vancouver 2010 sponsors provide the foundation for the staging of the 2010 Winter Games and contribute to every participating athlete. Worldwide Olympic Partners Coca-Cola Atos Origin GE McDonald s Omega Panasonic Samsung Visa National Partners Bell (Premier National Partner) Telecommunications Hbc (Premier National Partner) Department Store/General Merchandise Retailer RBC Financial Group (Premier National Partner) Investment/Retail Banking General Motors Canada (National Partner) Motor Vehicles Petro-Canada (National Partner) Fuel, Oil and Gas RONA (National Partner) Home Improvement Official Supporters Air Canada Airline Services BC Hydro Clean Power Supplier British Columbia Lottery Corporation Lotteries and Gaming Canadian Pacific Freight Railway Services Insurance Corporation of British Columbia Vehicle Insurance Jet Set Sports Hospitality Services Ricoh Canada Document Solutions Royal Canadian Mint Numismatic and Circulation Coins Teck Cominco Mining and Metals Official Suppliers 3M Large Format Graphics, Building and Vehicle Wraps Aggreko Temporary Energy Generation, Delivery Systems and Temperature Control Systems Aquilini Investment Group Diversified Development Product/ Service Birks and Mayors Inc. Jewellery Britco Modular Structures, Products and Services Dow Canada Heat Transfer and Insulation Materials EPCOR Water Utility Garrett Metal Detectors Metal Detection Products General Mills Cereal and Unprepared Grocery Products Haworth Canada Office Furniture Millennium Development Corporation Developer of the Millennium Water project Nortel Converged Network Equipment Purolator Courier Ltd Courier and Distribution Services Saputo Packaged Dairy Products Sleep Country Canada Bed Frames, Box Springs and Mattresses Sun Microsystems of Canada Computer Network Supplier Tickets.com Ticket Services TransCanada Corporation Natural Gas Pipeline Operator Vancouver Airport Authority Airport Services Vincor Wine Weston Bakeries Bread and Baked Goods Workopolis Online Recruitment Print Media Suppliers Canwest The Globe and Mail June 10,

18 12. SPORT 12.1 Olympic Winter Games Sport Program The 2010 Olympic Winter Games sport program includes seven sports and 86 medal events: Biathlon Bobsleigh and Skeleton Curling Ice Hockey Luge Skating Figure Skating Short Track Speed Skating Speed Skating Skiing Alpine Skiing Cross-Country Skiing Freestyle Skiing Nordic Combined Ski Jumping Snowboard Paralympic Winter Games Classifications In the alpine skiing, biathlon and cross-country skiing events at the Paralympic Winter Games, athletes compete in three categories based on their functional ability. A results calculation system allows athletes with different disabilities within the categories to compete against each other. The three categories are: LW1-9 (standing), LW10-12 (sitting) and B1-3 (visually impaired) with each category containing multiple sport classes. In alpine skiing, biathlon and cross-country skiing, athletes with physical disabilities use equipment that is adapted to their needs including a single ski, sit-ski or orthopaedic aids. Visually impaired athletes or athletes who are blind compete in these events with a sighted guide. In the shooting component of the biathlon events, visually impaired or blind athletes are assisted by acoustic signals which, depending on signal intensity, indicate when the athlete is on target. Athletes with functional disabilities of the lower body compete in ice sledge hockey and wheelchair curling Paralympic Winter Games Sport Program The 2010 Paralympic Winter Games sport program includes five sports and 64 medal events: Alpine Skiing Biathlon Cross-Country Skiing Ice Sledge Hockey Wheelchair Curling 16 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

19 12.3 International Sport Federations VANOC is working with the International Olympic Committee, the International Paralympic Committee and International Sport Federations to develop the sport venues and conditions for the 2010 Winter Games competitions. Olympic Winter Games International Sport Sport Federation Biathlon International Biathlon Union (IBU) Bobsleigh and Skeleton International Bobsleigh and Tobogganing Federation (FIBT) Curling World Curling Federation (WCF) Ice Hockey International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Luge International Luge Federation (FIL) Skating International Skating Union Figure Skating (ISU) Short Track Speed Skating Speed Skating Skiing International Ski Federation Alpine Skiing (FIS) Cross-Country Skiing Freestyle Skiing Nordic Combined Ski Jumping Snowboard Paralympic Winter Games Sport Alpine Skiing Biathlon Cross-Country Skiing Ice Sledge Hockey Wheelchair Curling International Paralympic Sport Federation IPC Alpine Skiing Technical Committee IPC Nordic Skiing Technical Committee IPC Nordic Skiing Technical Committee IPC Ice Hockey Technical Committee World Curling Federation (WCF) June 10,

20 12.4 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Sport Descriptions Paralympic alpine skiing events for men and women are downhill, slalom, giant slalom and super-g. For both the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in 2010, alpine skiing events will take place at Whistler Creekside. Biathlon Alpine Skiing In Olympic alpine skiing, racers can reach speeds of more than 130 kilometres an hour, travelling down a vertical drop that ranges from 180 metres (slalom) to 1,100 metres (downhill) for men and 140 metres (slalom) to 800 metres (downhill) for women. The vertical drop is made even more difficult because of a series of gates the skiers must pass through. Skiers who miss a gate must climb back up and go through the missed gate or be disqualified. There are five alpine skiing disciplines: downhill, super-g, giant slalom, slalom and super combined. In Paralympic alpine skiing, racers can reach speeds of more than 100 kilometres an hour. Athletes are classified as standing, sitting or visually impaired and compete against other athletes with a similar disability. Skiers with a visual impairment use the same equipment as able-bodied skiers, but ski with a guide. Skiers with locomotive disabilities may either use the same equipment as able-bodied skiers or a prosthesis (an artificial arm or leg) and stabilizers in place of ski poles (stabilizers are a type of crutch with a small ski at the end). Sitting skiers use a mono-ski. Biathlon, which comes from the Greek word for two tests, combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. In Olympic biathlon, athletes ski into the shooting range, put down their ski poles and take five shots at a metal target located 50 metres away. Each target has five plates, fixed in a straight row, which the athlete must hit. The hit area size changes depending on whether the athlete is shooting in a prone or standing position. When in a prone position, the hit area is the size of a golf ball (45 millimetres); standing, it s the size of a large grapefruit (115 millimetres). Missing a target plate can be costly: depending on the event, a missed shot means either one minute of added time or skiing a 150-metre penalty loop. There are five biathlon disciplines: individual start, sprint, pursuit, relay and mass start. Paralympic biathlon has a long distance and short distance event. In short distance biathlon, skiers race a 3-kilometre loop three times, stopping twice at the shooting range where they take five shots at a metal target 10 metres away. Each target has five plates, fixed in a straight row, which the athlete must hit. If a competitor misses a plate, he or she must ski a 150-metre penalty loop for each missed shot. Visually impaired skiers use an acoustic system for shooting that uses differing tones as the rifle is aimed toward the bull s eye. In long-distance biathlon, competitors ski the loop five times and stop four times at the shooting range. Missing a target plate can be costly: for every miss, a competitor receives a one minute time penalty that is added to the overall skiing time. Biathlon events for the Olympic Winter Games/Paralympic Winter Games will take place at Whistler Olympic Park/Whistler Paralympic Park. 18 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

21 Bobsleigh In bobsleigh, racers push off as fast as they can for approximately 50 metres, then jump into the bobsleigh for a seated descent down the track. The driver steers down the track, while, at the end of the run, the brakeman stops the sled. There are three bobsleigh events: the men compete in two-and four-man bobsleigh and women in a two-person format. In all Olympic bobsleigh competitions, four heats are held over two days, with medals being awarded to the team with the lowest combined time, measured to 0.01 of a second. For the Olympic Winter Games in 2010, bobsleigh will take place at The Whistler Sliding Centre. Cross-Country Skiing Cross-country skiing has two basic techniques: classic technique, where the skis move parallel to each other through machinegroomed tracks in the snow, and free technique, where skiers propel themselves in a manner similar to speed skating, pushing off with the edge of their skis. Free technique uses shorter skis and is slightly faster than classic on average about eight per cent faster over an entire race distance. In Olympic cross-country skiing, women compete in individual sprint, team sprint, 10 km individual start, 15 km pursuit, 30 km mass start and the 4 x 5-km relay. Men compete in individual sprint, team sprint, 15 km individual start, 30 km pursuit, 50 km mass start and the 4 x 10 km relay. For the Olympic Winter Games in 2010, cross-country skiing will take place at Whistler Olympic Park. Paralympic cross-country skiing comprises men s and women s individual events ranging from 2.5 kilometres to 20 kilometres. For the Paralympic Winter Games in 2010, cross-country skiing will take place at Whistler Paralympic Park. June 10,

22 Curling Olympic curling consists of two events: a women s tournament and a men s tournament. Each tournament starts with 10 curling teams. Two teams play against each other at a time. The game is played on ice, and the two teams take turns pushing 19.1-kilogram stones towards a series of concentric rings or circles. The object is to get the stones as close to the centre of the rings as possible. One game consists of 10 ends (similar to innings in baseball). During each end, each four-person team throws (slides along the ice) eight stones two stones per person and 16 altogether. Team members sweep the ice clean in front of each stone to control the stone s direction, known as its curl, and the stone s speed. At the conclusion of 10 ends, the team with the most points more stones closer to the centre of the rings is declared the winner. lifts, throws and synchronized jumps, spins and spirals linked harmoniously by steps and other movements. Ice dancing includes compulsory dance, an original dance and a free dance. Compulsory dance is the skating of prescribed patterns to music incorporating pre-determined rhythm and tempo. Original dance and free dance are created by each couple to music of their own choice. Required elements such as dance lifts, spins, synchronized twizzles (a multi-rotational one-foot turn) and step sequences must be included in the composition of these programs. For the Olympic Winter Games in 2010, figure skating will take place at Pacific Coliseum. In Paralympic wheelchair curling, two teams play against each other, taking turns pushing 19.1-kilogram stones down a sheet of ice towards a series of concentric rings or circles. The stones must be thrown while the player s wheelchair is stationary. Players may use their hands to throw the stone or an extender cue that can be attached to the handle of the stone to push it along the ice. The absence of sweeping is the main difference from Olympic curling. For the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in 2010, curling and wheelchair curling will take place at the Vancouver Olympic Centre/Vancouver Paralympic Centre. Figure Skating Figure skating consists of singles, pairs and ice dancing events. In singles skating, skaters must complete both a short program of required steps, jumps, spins and combinations, and a longer free skating program. In the free skate, worth two-thirds of a skater s final score, athletes demonstrate their creativity, innovative moves and technical difficulty. The pairs event also has a compulsory short program and a free skate; however, one male and one female skater work in unison, incorporating 20 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

23 Freestyle Skiing There are three Olympic freestyle skiing events for both men and women: aerials, moguls and ski cross. Tricks in freestyle skiing include the twister, spread-eagle, iron cross and the helicopter an upright 360-degree spin. In aerials, competitors strategically determine their inrun location based on the type of jump performed, their own freestyle technique and the current environmental conditions. Athletes are judged on the quality of take off, height gained, form and body position, and how they maintain balance upon landing. In moguls, athletes choose which of the three to four different lines they will ski down on the mogul course. After the start signal, they ski down a steep slope and over a series of offset large bumps (moguls) as high as 1.2 metres, spaced three to four metres apart. The goal is to ski down the course as fast as possible while performing the two jumps without technical errors or loss of balance. In ski cross, which will debut at the 2010 Winter Games, athletes ski four to five runs lasting 60 seconds or longer. The course, which is designed to test skiers skills, incorporates turns in a variety of types and sizes, flat sections and traverses, as well as rolls, banks and ridges similar to those found on a normal ski slope. For the Olympic Winter Games in 2010, freestyle skiing will take place at Cypress Mountain. Ice Hockey In Olympic ice hockey, eight women s teams and 12 men s teams compete in separate round-robin tournaments. Winning teams then advance to the playoffs. A team must not have more than six players on the ice while play is in progress. The object is for one team to get the puck past the other team s goaltender and into the net. A regular game consists of three 20-minute periods, with a 15-minute intermission after the first and second periods. If a tie occurs in a game in which a winner must be determined, a sudden-victory overtime period is played. During the gold medal game, a 20-minute, sudden-victory period is played. In the event of a tie after a sudden-victory period, a game-winning shoot-out determines the winner. For the Olympic Winter Games in 2010, ice hockey will take place at Canada Hockey Place and the UBC Thunderbird Arena. Paralympic ice sledge hockey follows the International Ice Hockey Federation rules, with a few small modifications. Instead of standing on skates, players sit on aluminum or steel sledges fitted with two blades. They grip two double-ended sticks, one in each hand. One end of the stick has a sharp pick that the players use to propel the sledge, the other has a curved blade to pass and shoot the puck. For the Paralympic Winter Games in 2010, ice sledge hockey will take place at the UBC Thunderbird Arena. June 10,

24 Luge In luge (the French word for sled ), racers begin by sitting on open fibreglass sleds. Pulling on fixed handles in the ice, they burst out of the start. After this explosive start, they use spiked gloves on the ice surface for extra acceleration before lying down on their backs, feet stretched out in front of them, heads back to be as aerodynamic as possible. Luge racers steer using their legs and shoulders, and brake by sitting up, putting their feet down and pulling up on the sled runners. Luge has women s singles, men s singles and doubles events. In luge, the fastest total time determines the winner. All events are timed to of a second. For the Olympic Winter Games in 2010, luge will take place at The Whistler Sliding Centre. Nordic Combined The jumping portion of Nordic combined occurs first followed by a free technique cross-country race. The break between the jumping and the cross-country race can be as little as 35 minutes, or as long as a few hours. Known as a Gunderson or pursuit start, the jumping results generate the starting seed for the cross-country race that follows, with the second and remaining athletes beginning seconds or even minutes after the best jumper. Using pack-racing strategies, the athletes cluster into trains that chase down other athlete trains. The winner of the Nordic combined event is the first athlete across the cross-country finish line. There are three Nordic combined events: individual, sprint and team. For the Olympic Winter Games in 2010, Nordic combined will take place at Whistler Olympic Park. Short Track Speed Skating Short track speed skating has several events: men s 500 metre, 1,000 metre and 1,500 metre (individual) and men s 5,000-metre relay; and women s 500 metre, 1,000 metre and 1,500 metre (individual) and women s 3,000-metre relay. Short track speed skating takes place on a metre oval track within a hockey rink. Short track speed skaters compete against each other, rather than the clock. The competition consists of a series of heats with four or six athletes. The first two athletes in each heat advance to the next round until only four skaters remain for the final. The men s and ladies short track relays take place over two days and consist of semi-final and final competitions. Eight teams of four skaters plus a substitute take part in the relay. The teams decide how many laps each of their members will race, with the understanding that the final two laps must be covered by the same skater. Instead of passing a baton, the skater on the ice needs to only tag the next skater to complete an exchange. In order to maintain momentum, however, it is more common for the next skater to crouch and receive a push from behind. For the Olympic Winter Games in 2010, short track speed skating will take place at Pacific Coliseum. Skeleton Skeleton got its name from the sled used originally metal, now fiberglass and metal as it resembles a human skeleton. To start, a skeleton slider grasps the handles on either side of the sled, runs as fast as possible for approximately 50 metres, then dives head first onto the sled. Sliders lie on their stomachs and steer by shifting their bodies very slightly. Skeleton has individual men s and women s events. For each, the individual with the lowest combined time wins. For the Olympic Winter Games in 2010, skeleton will take place at The Whistler Sliding Centre. 22 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

25 Ski Jumping In ski jumping, an athlete skis down a long ramp (the inrun) and launches into the air at speeds of up to 95 kilometres per hour. Technique is integral as athletes must perform a very precise and well-timed takeoff. Once in the air, jumpers assume the V-style and adjust their position to maximize lift and minimize drag. Competitors are evaluated on distance and style and, while there is a very close relationship between the two, the skier with the longest jump will often have the highest style points. An exception to this can be found in the landing portion of the jump as long jumps can make landing in a controlled telemark position more difficult. The quality of landing can be a determining factor in deciding the finishing place when the distances are similar. There are three Olympic ski jumping events: normal hill individual, large hill individual and large hill team. For the Olympic Winter Games in 2010, ski jumping will take place at Whistler Olympic Park. Snowboard Snowboarding combines elements of surfing, skateboarding and skiing. In the halfpipe, one snowboarder at a time performs a routine of acrobatic jumps, twists and tricks on the inside of a half-cylinder-shaped snow tube or ramp while moving from one side of the halfpipe to the other. The riders are judged on the height and style of their tricks. In the parallel giant slalom, two snowboarders race head-to-head down a course, turning through a series of gates. In snowboard cross, four racers start in a pack down a course, racing against each other over rolling terrain and a series of jumps and ramps. For the Olympic Winter Games in 2010, snowboarding will take place at Cypress Mountain. Speed Skating Speed skating takes place on a 400-metre oval ice rink. Timed to of a second, athletes compete in pairs, skating counter-clockwise around the oval and changing lanes once per lap, to equalize the distance covered. The skater in the outside lane has the right-of-way at the crossover if the skaters arrive at the changeover point at the same time. In the team pursuit, two teams of three athletes begin, simultaneously, on each side of the track. Team members take turns leading, with the remaining athletes following closely behind the leader to take advantage of the air currents. The team completes the race when the final team member crosses the finish line. The competition consists of elimination rounds, leading to a final race. For the Olympic Winter Games in 2010, snowboard will take place at the Richmond Oval. June 10,

26 13. OWN THE PODIUM 2010 Launched in January 2005, Own the Podium 2010 is a national sport technical initiative designed to help Canada s winter athletes win the most number of medals at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games and to place in the top three nations (gold medal count) at the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games. The initiative is a collaborative effort supported by all of Canada s winter national sport organizations and the major winter sport funding partners, including Sport Canada, the Canadian Olympic Committee, the Canadian Paralympic Committee, the Calgary Olympic Development Association, the Government of British Columbia, VANOC and several of VANOC s corporate sponsors WINTER GAMES VENUES The venues for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games stretch over a 120-kilometre zone from Richmond, through Vancouver s downtown centre and north to the mountain resort of Whistler. Drawing on both new and existing facilities, VANOC s goal is to create spectacular theatres for sport that provide top conditions for athletes and a welcome place for spectators to experience the excitement of competition Venue Investment The governments of Canada and British Columbia agreed to jointly fund new construction and upgrades to existing venues for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games with contributions from the City of Vancouver, Resort Municipality of Whistler, City of Richmond and University of British Columbia. The Canada/British Columbia investment in 2010 Winter Games venue development is $580 million. Working diligently with its partners, VANOC has kept its commitment to complete the competition venues two years prior to the Games, allowing for testing and athlete training opportunities. The expanded Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre will house the Main Media Centre. BC Place Stadium, in downtown Vancouver, will be the main ceremonies venue for the 2010 Winter Games. 24 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

27 14.2 Vancouver Venues Overview The 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games events to be held in Vancouver include curling, figure skating, ice hockey, ice sledge hockey, short track speed skating and wheelchair curling. Speed skating will take place in Richmond and the snowboard and freestyle skiing events will be hosted at Cypress Mountain in the District of West Vancouver. The Olympic Games Opening and Closing Ceremonies, as well as the Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony, will be held indoors at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver s city centre Paralympic Venues Overview The 2010 Paralympic Winter Games will highlight both the small-town spirit and big-city facilities and provide world-class exposure to the Paralympic athletes who will compete. In August 2006, VANOC proposed that ice sledge hockey and wheelchair curling take place in Vancouver and that alpine skiing, biathlon and cross-country skiing take place in Whistler. The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) approved this concept in November Whistler Venues Overview For the 2010 Winter Games, Whistler will host Olympic and Paralympic alpine skiing, cross-country skiing and biathlon, as well as Olympic Nordic combined, ski jumping, bobsleigh, luge and skeleton. Olympic and Paralympic Villages and media facilities will be located in Vancouver and Whistler. Downtown Vancouver, framed by the North Shore mountains. Whistler has the largest ski area in North America, with 3,300 hectares of skiable terrain. June 10,

28 14.4 Venue Distances Venue distances in kilometres Vancouver Olympic/Paralympic Village Whistler Olympic/Paralympic Village Cypress Mountain Canada Hockey Place Vancouver Olympic/Paralympic Centre Pacific Coliseum Richmond Oval UBC Thunderbird Arena Whistler Creekside Whistler Olympic/Paralympic Park The Whistler Sliding Centre Main Media Centre Vancouver International Airport BC Place Stadium Whistler Celebration Site Vancouver Olympic/Paralympic Village Whistler Olympic/Paralympic Village Cypress Mountain Canada Hockey Place Vancouver Olympic/Paralympic Centre Pacific Coliseum Richmond Oval UBC Thunderbird Arena Whistler Creekside Whistler Olympic/Paralympic Park The Whistler Sliding Centre Main Media Centre Vancouver International Airport BC Place Stadium Whistler Celebration Site VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

29 14.5 Vancouver Competition Venue Cluster Details Gross Venue Events Venue Elevation Construction Program Capacity Cypress Mountain Olympic 12, m New runs, upgrades to existing runs Freestyle Skiing in each and construction of snowmaking Snowboard of two facilities complete and operational temporary stadiums The freestyle venue became competition-ready in November 2006 Canada Hockey Place Olympic Ice Hockey 18,630 8 m Complete and operational Vancouver Olympic Centre Vancouver Paralympic Centre Olympic Curling Paralympic Wheelchair Curling 6, m New facility scheduled for completion by fall 2008 Pacific Coliseum Olympic Figure Skating Short Track Speed Skating 14, m Renovation of existing facility complete and operational Richmond Oval Olympic Speed Skating 8,000 sea level New facility under construction scheduled for completion by fall 2008 UBC Thunderbird Arena Olympic Ice Hockey Paralympic Ice Sledge Hockey 7, m New facility, complete and operational Note: An updated list of official venue names will be published once all names have been approved. June 10,

30 14.6 Whistler Competition Venue Cluster Details Gross Venue Events Venue Elevation Construction Program Capacity Whistler Creekside Olympic Olympic 810 m Upgrades to existing runs and Alpine Skiing 7,600 (finish area) snowmaking system complete and (speed and operational technical events) Paralympic Paralympic 6,000 Alpine Skiing Whistler Olympic Olympic 12, m to Complete and operational Park Biathlon in each 910 m Cross-Country Skiing of three Nordic Combined stadiums Ski Jumping Whistler Paralympic Paralympic Paralympic Park Biathlon 6,000 Cross-Country Skiing The Whistler Olympic 12, m (top), Complete and operational Sliding Centre Bobsleigh 785 m (bottom) Luge Skeleton Note: An updated list of official venue names will be published once all names have been approved. 28 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

31 14.7 Competition Venue and Sport Facts Cypress Mountain Freestyle Skiing and Snowboard (Olympic Winter Games) Venue Capacity: 12,000 in each of two temporary stadiums Elevation: 930 m Olympic Winter Games Events: Freestyle Skiing Snowboard (6 events): (6 events): Aerials Parallel Giant Slalom Men, Ladies Men, Ladies Moguls Halfpipe Men, Ladies Men, Ladies Ski Cross Snowboard Cross Men, Ladies Men, Ladies Scope of Work for 2010 Venue upgrades include modifications to existing runs, a new in-ground halfpipe, a snowmaking system and water reservoir, lighting, a new freestyle site for aerials and moguls, and a re-graded parallel giant slalom course. Timeline Construction began in May 2006, following a comprehensive environmental review. Venue improvements were completed by fall In November 2006, the freestyle venue became the first 2010 Winter Games site to be ready for competition. Post-Games Use Cypress Mountain is one of the most popular skiing areas in British Columbia, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. The 2010 Winter Games upgrades will enhance the Cypress experience for both recreational and competitive users. The International Ski Federation uses the term ladies in its event listings. VANOC Investment Improvements to Cypress Mountain are estimated at $16.7 million. The governments of Canada and British Columbia have agreed to jointly fund new construction and upgrades to existing venues. Freestyle Skiing Moguls skiing was added to the official program of the Albertville 1992 Winter Games and aerials were added at the Lillehammer 1994 Winter Games. Ski Cross Freestyle ramps at Cypress Mountain Venue Description Cypress Mountain is located in Cypress Provincial Park, adjacent to the District of West Vancouver. The mountain is served by an excellent highway and offers spectacular views of Vancouver and its harbour. Ski cross will be introduced to the Olympic program at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games. Snowboard Snowboard was introduced as an official event with giant slalom and halfpipe featured at the Nagano 1998 Winter Games. Snowboard cross was introduced at the Torino 2006 Winter Games. June 10,

32 Canada Hockey Place Ice Hockey (Olympic Winter Games) Venue Capacity: 18,630 Elevation: 8 m Olympic Winter Games Events (2 events): Ice Hockey Men s Tournament (12 teams) Ice Hockey Women s Tournament (8 teams) Scope of Work for 2010 On June 7, 2006, VANOC and the International Ice Hockey Federation announced that the 2010 ice hockey tournaments will be played on North American-size ice surfaces, rather than converting to the larger international size. This decision precluded any modifications to be made to the existing ice sheet. Additional locker rooms will be built as part of the venue preparations for the Games. Post-Games Use Canada Hockey Place hosts approximately 100 events each year, ranking it among the busiest facilities in North America. Ice Hockey Ice hockey first appeared in the Antwerp 1920 Summer Games and was part of the competition at the inaugural Olympic Winter Games in 1924 in Chamonix, France. Women s hockey was added to the Olympic program at the Nagano 1998 Winter Games. Canada Hockey Place, located in downtown Vancouver. Venue Description The 2010 Olympic Winter Games ice hockey tournaments will be staged in two venues Canada Hockey Place and the UBC Thunderbird Arena. In addition to being home to the Vancouver Canucks of the National Hockey League, the facility is one of the most active entertainment venues in North America. Since it opened in September 1995, it has attracted the biggest names in show business to its stage and welcomed more than 10 million visitors through its doors. 30 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

33 Vancouver Olympic/Paralympic Centre Curling (Olympic Winter Games) Wheelchair Curling (Paralympic Winter Games) Venue Capacity: 6,000 Elevation: 74 m Olympic Winter Games Events (2 events): Men s 10-team tournament Women s 10-team tournament Paralympic Winter Games: Mixed 10-team tournament Scope of Work for 2010 A preliminary environmental assessment has been completed and approved. The project includes construction of a new arena with temporary seating for the Games and an adjoining aquatic centre. Timeline Construction of the arena started in March 2007 and is scheduled to be completed by fall Post-Games Use After the 2010 Winter Games, the curling venue will become a multi-purpose community recreation centre that will include an ice hockey rink, gymnasium, library and six to eight sheets of curling ice. Attached to and being constructed with the new curling venue and community centre is a new aquatic centre with a 50-metre pool and leisure pool, to be managed by the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation. VANOC Investment VANOC s investment in the curling/wheelchair curling facility is $40 million. The City of Vancouver is responsible for the balance of the project costs. Curling Construction of the curling/wheelchair curling facility, February Venue Description The venue is located in a lively Vancouver community that includes the beautiful Queen Elizabeth Park and views of the local mountains. The park is well served by public transportation. Curling appeared four times as a demonstration sport in the Olympic Winter Games in 1924, 1932, 1988 (when women s curling appeared for the first time in Olympic Games competition) and 1992 before making its official Olympic Games debut at the Nagano1998 Games with the men s and women s tournaments. Wheelchair Curling Wheelchair curling debuted at the Torino 2006 Paralympic Winter Games. It is governed and played according to the rules of the World Curling Federation with only one modification for wheelchair users: no sweeping. June 10,

34 Pacific Coliseum Figure Skating and Short Track Speed Skating (Olympic Winter Games) Venue Capacity: 14,239 Elevation: 26 m Olympic Winter Games Events: Figure Skating Short Track Speed Skating (4 events): (8 events): Men s Singles 500 m Men, Ladies Ladies Singles 1,000 m Men, Ladies Pairs 1,500 m Men, Ladies Ice Dancing 3,000 m Relay Ladies 5,000 m Relay Men The International Skating Union uses the term ladies in its event listings. Scope of Work for 2010 The upgrades to Hastings Park are part of long-term restoration plans that began in Structural and cosmetic renovations will revitalize the Pacific Coliseum to address Olympic Games and community needs. The replacement of nearly 16,000 seats and the expansion of the ice surface to international size have been completed. The balance of the building and technical changes for the Pacific Coliseum include ice plant improvements and upgrades to washroom facilities, concession space, building heating/ ventilation/air conditioning and dehumidification systems. Timeline Major capital upgrades were completed in fall Post-Games Use As the largest building within the Hastings Park complex, the Pacific Coliseum will continue to serve as a venue for events such as ice shows, boxing, basketball, hockey, concerts, large assemblies and trade and consumer shows. VANOC Investment Improvements to the Pacific Coliseum are estimated at $20.4 million. The governments of Canada and British Columbia are jointly funding the upgrades to the existing facility. Figure Skating The Pacific Coliseum is located in Hastings Park, close to Vancouver s downtown core. Venue Description The Pacific Coliseum at Hastings Park is at the core of one of the City s major event sites. As home to an annual fair that attracts up to 60,000 people a day, this site is very well served by public transportation. Figure skating was added to the Olympic program for the 1908 Summer Games, when competitions were able to be held indoors. Figure skating became an official Olympic Winter Games sport at the 1924 Winter Games in Chamonix, France. Short Track Speed Skating Short track speed skating was first included in the official program at the Albertville 1992 Winter Games. 32 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

35 Richmond Oval Speed Skating (Olympic Winter Games) Venue Capacity: 8,000 Elevation: Sea level Olympic Winter Games Events (12 events): Men: Ladies: 500 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 1,500 m 5,000 m 3,000 m 10,000 m 5,000 m Team Pursuit Team Pursuit The International Skating Union uses the term ladies in its event listings. Scope of Work for 2010 The Richmond Oval will house a 400-metre track within the new 33,750-square-metre facility. Key design elements include a state-of-the-art ice plant with superior air quality and climate controls. Facilities and systems will include offices, timing and athlete monitoring equipment, and fitness and strength training areas. Timeline Construction began in September 2005 with completion scheduled for fall Post-Games Use After the Games, the Richmond Oval will become an international centre of excellence for sports and wellness. The facility s flexible design will allow it to be used for a variety of sport and community functions. The facility will be the centrepiece of a major new urban waterfront neighbourhood featuring a mix of residential, commercial and public amenity development. VANOC Investment VANOC s contribution to the oval project is $63.3 million. The governments of Canada and British Columbia are jointly funding a portion of new construction. The City of Richmond is responsible for the majority of project costs and for building the facility, which includes a new waterfront plaza, park and parkade. In mid-january 2008, the final section of the Richmond Oval s massive 6.5-acre roof was lifted into place. The venue s unique roof is constructed primarily of pine beetledamaged timber. Venue Description The Richmond Oval site is located on the banks of the Fraser River, 14 kilometres south of downtown Vancouver. The site, in the northwest corner of Richmond, is across the river from Vancouver International Airport and near Richmond city centre. Speed Skating Speed skating has been a part of the Olympic program since the first Olympic Winter Games in Chamonix in Women s events were first included at the Squaw Valley 1960 Winter Games. June 10,

36 UBC Thunderbird Arena Ice Hockey (Olympic Winter Games) Ice Sledge Hockey (Paralympic Winter Games) Venue Capacity: 7,200 Elevation: 90 m Olympic Winter Games Events (2 events): Ice Hockey Men s Tournament Ice Hockey Women s Tournament Paralympic Winter Games Event: Men s 8 team tournament Scope of Work for 2010 The redevelopment includes the refurbishing of the existing competition arena and the construction of two new ice sheets: one which will be used for the competition arena, and one that will be used for a future training ice sheet. Timeline Construction began in April 2006 and will be completed by summer Post-Games Use Following the Games, the UBC venue will become a recreational and high-performance multi-sport legacy facility. The new training arena will be easily convertible for ice sledge hockey training and competition use. VANOC Investment VANOC s investment in the UBC Thunderbird Arena is $38.5 million. The University of British Columbia is responsible for the balance of construction costs. Ice Hockey The UBC Thunderbird Arena will become a recreational and high-performance multi-sport centre after the Games. Rendering: Kasian Architecture Venue Description The University of British Columbia (UBC) is located on a sprawling ocean-side campus on Vancouver s west side, well served by public transport. VANOC secured an agreement with UBC to locate a new competition arena for the Olympic and Paralympic Games on the site of the existing Thunderbird Winter Sport Complex. Ice hockey first appeared in the Antwerp 1920 Summer Games and was part of the competition at the inaugural Olympic Winter Games in 1924 in Chamonix. Women s hockey was added to the Olympic program at the Nagano 1998 Winter Games. Ice Sledge Hockey Ice sledge hockey is governed by the International Paralympic Committee through the International Paralympic Ice Hockey Committee. It follows the rules of the International Ice Hockey Federation, with certain modifications. Ice sledge hockey was introduced to the Paralympic Winter Games program in 1994 in Lillehammer. 34 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

37 Whistler Creekside Alpine Skiing (Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games) Olympic Winter Games Venue Capacity: 7,600 Paralympic Winter Games Venue Capacity: 6,000 Finish Area Elevation: 810 m Olympic Winter Games Events Paralympic Winter Games (10 Events): Events (30 Events): Downhill Men, Ladies Downhill Men, Women Super G Men, Ladies Super G Men, Women Giant Slalom Men, Ladies Giant Slalom Men, Women Slalom Men, Ladies Slalom Men, Women Super Combined Men, Ladies Super Combined Men, Women The International Ski Federation uses the term ladies in its event listings. Paralympic Games alpine skiing events will take place on Franz s Run at Whistler Creekside. Scope of Work for 2010 Improvements include contouring and reshaping of the men s and women s downhill courses and additions to the existing snowmaking system. Timeline Improvements began in summer 2006 and were completed by fall Post-Games Use Whistler Creekside will continue to offer a world-class ski area to recreational skiers and will be a site for future international competitions and Canadian team training. VANOC Investment Improvements to Whistler Creekside are estimated at $27.6 million. The governments of Canada and British Columbia have agreed to jointly fund new construction and upgrades. Alpine Skiing at the Olympic Winter Games The Whistler Creekside venue, which will host a number of events during the 2010 Winter Games. Venue Description Consistently ranked one of the top ski resorts in North America, Whistler welcomes more than two million visitors each year. The resort has extensive experience hosting FIS World Cup competitions. The men s downhill course for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, the Dave Murray Downhill, is a well-respected and challenging course. The women s downhill course for 2010 is Franz s Run. Alpine skiing became part of the Olympic program at the Garmisch-Partenkirchen 1936 Games, with a men s and women s combined event. Alpine Skiing at the Paralympic Winter Games Alpine Skiing was introduced at the first Paralympic Winter Games in 1976 in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden. Paralympic alpine skiing is governed by the International Paralympic Committee through the International Paralympic Alpine Skiing Committee. The rules of the International Ski Federation are used for the Paralympic Winter Games. June 10,

38 Whistler Olympic/Paralympic Park Biathlon, Cross-Country Skiing, Nordic Combined, Ski Jumping (Olympic Winter Games) Biathlon, Cross-Country Skiing (Paralympic Winter Games) Olympic Venue Description The compact, two-square-kilometre Olympic Games core area includes three separate stadiums located about 500 metres apart. Approximately 14 kilometres of competition trails for cross-country skiing (two separate five-kilometre loops) and biathlon (one four-kilometre loop) will be built, in addition to eight kilometres of training trails. The two ski jumps (normal hill and large hill) will be visible to all visitors as they enter the venue. An additional 20 to 25 kilometres of recreational trails will cover spectacular cross-country ski terrain, next to the Olympic Games core area. A 10,500-square-foot day lodge will be part of the athletes compound. Paralympic Venue Description All the Paralympic cross-country skiing and biathlon events will start and finish from the Olympic cross-country stadium and will use parts of the Olympic cross-country competition trails. Competition courses include a five-kilometre course for the standing classes and a 3.75-kilometre course for the sit-ski classes. Several kilometres of training trails will be available near the Paralympic competition courses. A temporary, portable 10-metre biathlon range will be set up in the stadium for the biathlon events. Scope of Work for 2010 The construction project involves the competition facilities, technical sport buildings at each of the stadiums, sewer, water, and power services, access roads, internal roads, parking lots, a day lodge and other related infrastructure facilities. Olympic Winter Games Venue Capacity: 12,000 in each of three stadiums Paralympic Winter Games Venue Capacity: 6,000 Elevation: 850 m 910 m Olympic Winter Games Events: Ski Jumping (3 Events): Men s Individual NH Men s Individual LH Men s Team LH Nordic Combined (3 Events): Men s NH/15 km Individual Men s LH/7.5 km Sprint Men s LH 4 x 5 km Team Cross-Country Skiing (12 events): Men: Ladies: 15 km + 15 km Pursuit 7.5 km km Pursuit Sprint Sprint Team Sprint Team Sprint 4 x10 km Relay 4 x 5 km Relay 15 km Interval Start 10 km Interval Start 50 km Mass Start 30 km Mass Start Biathlon (10 events): Men: Women: 4 x 7.5 km Relay 4 x 6 km Relay 10 km Sprint 7.5 km Sprint 12.5 km Pursuit 10 km Pursuit 15 km Mass Start 12.5 km Mass Start 20 km Individual 15 km Individual Paralympic Winter Games Events: Biathlon Cross-Country Skiing (12 events): (20 events): Men s 12.5 km Sprint (Men s and Women s) Men s Sprint Pursuit 10 km (Men s and Women s) Women s 10 km 15 km (Men s and Women s) Women s 12.5 km 20 km (Men s) Women s Sprint Pursuit Relay (Men s and Women s) The International Ski Federation uses the term ladies in its event listings. 36 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

39 Timeline Construction of the permanent elements of the Nordic venue began in April 2005 and was completed by fall Temporary construction and facilities set up will commence in summer Several other changes in the event format, techniques and competition distances have occurred for cross-country skiing and Nordic combined since Post-Games Use The Nordic venue will serve as a legacy for the enjoyment of local residents, visitors and athletes in a variety of ways, from recreational to high performance sport use. VANOC Investment Construction of Whistler Olympic/Paralympic Park is estimated at $119.7 million. The governments of Canada and British Columbia have agreed to jointly fund new construction. Cross-Country Skiing, Nordic Combined, Ski Jumping at the Olympic Winter Games Nordic combined individual events and cross-country skiing have been included since the first Olympic Winter Games in Chamonix, France in The ski jumping competition on the large hill was first included on the Olympic program for the Innsbruck 1964 Winter Games. Biathlon at the Olympic Winter Games The men s biathlon was first held as an official Olympic event at the Squaw Valley 1960 Winter Games. The first women s event was added to the Olympic program at the Albertville 1992 Winter Games. Cross-Country Skiing at the Paralympic Winter Games Cross-country skiing first appeared at the 1976 Paralympic Winter Games in Örnsköldsvik, Sweden. Biathlon at the Paralympic Winter Games Biathlon was introduced at the 1988 Winter Games in Innsbruck. Cross-country skiing and biathlon are governed by the International Paralympic Committee through the IPC s Nordic Skiing Committee, following modified rules of the International Ski Federation and the International Biathlon Union. Overview of Nordic venue trail system in October 2006 Completed ski jumps at Whistler Olympic Park. June 10,

40 The Whistler Sliding Centre Bobsleigh, Luge and Skeleton (Olympic Winter Games) Venue Capacity: 12,000 Elevation: 930 m (top), 785 m (bottom) Olympic Winter Games Events: Bobsleigh (3 events): Four-man Two-man Women Skeleton (2 events): Men Women Luge (3 events): Doubles Singles Men Singles Women Venue Description Located on Blackcomb Mountain in the resort of Whistler, the new sliding track is integrated into Whistler s long-term resort development plan. The Whistler Sliding Centre will be an excellent site to showcase sliding sports to the public. Its location near several of the resort s world-class hotels will attract many tourists, providing a sustainable revenue stream towards the Centre s long-term operations. Scope of Work for 2010 The project features construction of a new 1,450-metre competition-length concrete sliding track, refrigeration facilities, support buildings and access road. Timeline Construction began in June 2005, with the track completed by winter Post-Games Use The Whistler Sliding Centre will be operated under the direction of the Whistler Legacy Society, supported by an endowment trust that was established by the federal and provincial governments as part of their 2010 Winter Games venues investment. This high-performance competition centre, located in the heart of the Whistler/Blackcomb resort, will introduce sliding sports to the area s many visitors. VANOC Investment Construction of The Whistler Sliding Centre is estimated at $104.9 million. The governments of Canada and British Columbia have agreed to jointly fund new construction. Bobsleigh Bobsleigh has been part of the official program since the first Olympic Winter Games in Chamonix in Women s bobsleigh was introduced at the Salt Lake 2002 Winter Games. Skeleton Skeleton first appeared at the 1928 Winter Games and then again in 1948, both times the Games were held in St. Moritz. The sport returned to the Olympic Winter Games program in 2002 in Salt Lake City. Luge Luge made its Olympic Games debut at the 1964 Olympic Winter Games in Innsbruck. 38 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

41 15. NON-COMPETITION VENUES Venue Events Gross Venue Capacity Elevation Construction Program BC Place Stadium Olympic Winter Games Opening Ceremony 60,000 8 m Upgrades to existing facility around regular operations Olympic Winter Games Closing Ceremony Nightly Victory Ceremonies Paralympic Winter Games Opening Ceremony Whistler Celebration Site Nightly Victory Ceremonies for the Olympic Winter Games Paralympic Winter Games Closing Ceremony 8, m New site under development Main Media Centre International Broadcast Centre Accredited sea level Expansion of existing convention at the Vancouver Convention and Main Press Centre media centre underway, scheduled for completion in early 2009 Exhibition Centre Whistler Broadcast and Press Centre at the Whistler Conference Centre Broadcast and press services TBD 668 m Renovation complete Note: An updated list of official venue names will be published once all names have been approved. June 10,

42 15.1 Ceremonies Venues The Opening and Closing Ceremonies for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games and the Opening Ceremony for the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games will be held indoors in the BC Place Stadium in downtown Vancouver. BC Place will be the site of the nightly Victory Ceremonies and cultural performances during the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Covering four hectares, BC Place Stadium is the world s largest air-supported domed stadium. Nightly medals presentations for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games will also be held in Whistler, at an outdoor Celebration Site in the town centre. This Celebration Site will also be the venue for the Closing Ceremony for the Paralympic Winter Games. The Paralympic Arts Festival will take place during the Games in Vancouver and Whistler venues. Expansion of the VCEC began in November 2004 and will be completed in early The expanded convention centre will provide more than 59,000 square metres of functional space Whistler Broadcast and Press Centre The Whistler Broadcast and Press Centre will be located in the existing Whistler Conference Centre, in the heart of Whistler Village, within 17 kilometres of all Whistler competition venues. It will include the press centre and mountain broadcast centre. The Whistler Conference Centre provides more than 4,600 square metres of functional space for the 2010 Winter Games mountain broadcast and press operations. It will also serve as the main broadcast centre for the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games Media Centres Vancouver 2010 will operate two full-service media centres during the 2010 Winter Games, in addition to press and broadcast facilities at each competition venue Main Media Centre Located in the Vancouver Convention and Exhibition Centre (VCEC) on the city s waterfront, the Main Media Centre (MMC) will house the Main Press Centre (MPC) and the International Broadcast Centre (IBC). This venue allows VANOC to provide a common location with shared services for press and broadcasters the preferred Olympic Games model. The MMC will be operational 24 hours a day during the Games and will offer services such as catering facilities, a bank, post office, general store and newsstand. A highly distinctive timepiece, the illuminated Vancouver 2010 Countdown Clock was unveiled on February 12, VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

43 16. OLYMPIC AND PARALYMPIC VILLAGES In addition to providing the best possible conditions for the 2010 Winter Games athletes, VANOC will provide villages in both Vancouver and Whistler focused on delivering all the necessary services, along with the comforts of home, to allow athletes to perform at their best. The Olympic and Paralympic Village Vancouver is located on Vancouver s inner waterfront with extraordinary views of the city s downtown skyline and nearby mountains. The Olympic and Paralympic Village Whistler is surrounded by magnificent coastal forests adjacent to the Cheakamus River gorge at the southern entrance to Whistler Olympic and Paralympic Villages Quick Facts Resident Capacity (athletes and team officials): Olympic Villages: 5,300 total residents Paralympic Villages: 2,000 total residents Venue Elevation Construction Status Vancouver Olympic and 5 m Site clearing and grading is complete Paralympic Excavation works have begin Village Building construction to begin in 2007 At Games time, both villages will provide everything that athletes need to prepare, train, relax, contact home, make friends and soak up the experience of a lifetime. Services and facilities will include: 24-hour dining hall and casual dining locations transportation hub resident services centres athlete training facilities 24-hour polyclinic service sport information centre team welcoming ceremonies stage athletes lounges and celebration rooms internet lounge multi-faith centre music lounge and discotheque, game rooms, DVD viewing lounges Whistler Olympic and Paralympic Village 625 m Site clearing and grading is complete Building construction to begin in 2007 general store and Vancouver 2010 merchandise shop bank and post office other informal gathering places Construction site of the Olympic and Paralympic Village Vancouver, located on the southeast shore of False Creek, across from the city s downtown and BC Place Stadium. June 10,

44 16.2 Olympic and Paralympic Village Vancouver The Olympic and Paralympic Village Vancouver will feature modern low- and mid-rise accommodation for 2,750 athletes and team officials during the Olympic Winter Games and 1,000 during the Paralympic Winter Games, with wheelchair accessibility planned for 300 beds. The Village is located an average distance of 12 kilometres from Vancouver-area competition venues. Athletes will be able to walk, bus or take a passenger ferry to the city s shopping and entertainment districts and enjoy nightly medal ceremonies and cultural celebrations just minutes away at BC Place Stadium. Development of the Olympic and Paralympic Village Vancouver in southeast False Creek is being managed by the City of Vancouver, with VANOC acting as a third-party advisor. It will conform to the City of Vancouver s plan to create a sustainable community in the area. The 1,100-unit project represents the commencement of the final stage in the complete renewal of the False Creek site, begun by the local, provincial and federal governments in the 1970s. VANOC s investment in the Olympic and Paralympic Village Vancouver is $30 million. After the Games, the Vancouver Village will be developed into a model sustainable community with market and affordable housing, parkland, and office and shopping complexes. Village site are the Cheakamus River and forested lands. The site is accessed by a two-lane road and single-lane bridge from Highway 99 (the main route between Vancouver and Whistler), and less than one kilometre to the west. The conceptual site plan includes the development of land for the Games-time functions to accommodate the Village Plaza and the non-housing functions of the residential zone, back-ofhouse areas and some of the required parking and transportation needs. The area will undergo site grading to meet accessibility and functional requirements. Supplemental parking has been proposed on the adjacent cleared lands. VANOC s investment in the Olympic and Paralympic Village Whistler is $37.5 million. The project is being managed by the Whistler 2020 Development Corporation. After the Games, the Olympic and Paralympic Village Whistler will leave employee housing in a new neighbourhood that will be a model of sustainable living. The site will also accommodate an athlete centre comprising of a high-performance centre and affordable accommodation for athletes in training. VANOC has also made a commitment for a Squamish and Lil wat First Nations housing legacy Olympic and Paralympic Village Whistler The Olympic and Paralympic Village Whistler site is located within the scenic Cheakamus Valley. The Village is less than 20 minutes from all the Whistler competition venues. It is designed for 2,750 athletes and team officials during the Olympic Winter Games and 1,000 athletes and team officials during the Paralympic Winter Games, with wheelchair accessibility planned for 300 beds. A short shuttle ride will take athletes to the heart of Whistler s town centre and the nightly medal ceremonies at the Whistler celebration site. Surrounding the Olympic and Paralympic Construction is proceeding at the site of the Olympic and Paralympic Village Whistler. 42 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

45 Whistler Athletes Centre The Whistler Athletes Centre will be located in the Olympic and Paralympic Village Whistler, within the scenic Cheakamus Valley. The focus of the centre is a commitment to Canadian athletes in training. It will offer high-performance athletes a permanent training facility near 2010 Games legacy venues in Whistler and will support the Olympic and Paralympic Village during the 2010 Winter Games period. The facilities include a combination of mixed-use buildings for athlete training, commercial and residential space. The concept is to provide high-performance and potential development athletes with an opportunity to learn, train and reside in a sport environment. The Centre will include a gymnasium, fitness room, low-cost accommodation alternatives, multi-purpose meeting rooms and lecture space. VANOC is responsible for the design and construction of the Whistler Athletes Centre. Completion is expected for the pre-games Sport Events. The high-performance component of the Centre is made possible with the support of the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW), which is funding a community gymnastics facility on the site. VANOC s investment in the Whistler Athletes Centre is $16 million. The project is being developed by VANOC for the Whistler Legacy Society. 17. ACCOMMODATION As part of its mandate to plan, organize and stage the Games, VANOC is securing accommodations for the various user groups that fall under the responsibility of the Organizing Committee, including NOCs and NPCs of participating nations, the IOC, the IPC, international sport federations, international Paralympic sport federations, international and domestic corporate sponsors, as well as international and domestic news media, among others. The 2010 accommodations program will provide coordinated accommodations management for all of VANOC s user groups, highlighting Vancouver and Whistler as superior tourism and hospitality destinations. To accommodate all of its user groups, VANOC requires approximately 16,000 rooms in the Greater Vancouver area and approximately 3,000 rooms in the Whistler area. VANOC is concentrating its efforts on securing hotels and hotel-type properties which have front desk and housekeeping services and other amenities which will enhance the experience of the guests. To date, VANOC has secured 87 per cent of its contractual accommodation requirements in Vancouver and 91 per cent in Whistler. Following the de-commissioning of the Olympic and Paralympic Village in March 2010, the training facilities, accommodations and other commercial space will evolve into a permanent athlete training centre. The centre will be a lasting legacy for Canadian sport and the Whistler community. June 10,

46 18. TRANSPORTATION To ensure a sustainable, accessible and efficient transportation system between venues and in the region, VANOC is preparing a mass transportation plan for the 2010 Winter Games that will address the needs of athletes, Olympic and Paralympic Family, media, volunteers and spectators. VANOC expects to transport some 100,000 people a day at Games time Ground Transportation VANOC s transportation strategy is based on sustainable transportation guidelines which promote the use of public transportation, cycling and walking, combined with a multi-jurisdictional traffic management plan and aggressive travel demand management. Within Greater Vancouver there are currently more than 6,000 park-and-ride spaces adjacent to transit services. These strategies form the basis of the spectator transportation plan and therefore no spectator parking will be provided at venues. Greater Vancouver s extensive public bus network is composed of 1,200 vehicles. A fully automated light rail transit network, known as the SkyTrain, connects Vancouver with several outlying suburbs. The 32-station network carries more than 140,000 passengers per day on the current fleet of 210 cars. There are more than 1,100 taxis within the Vancouver area, of which 35 per cent run on alternative fuel and 90 vehicles are wheelchair accessible. The Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) was established in January 2006 with a mandate to provide input and support to the VANOC Transportation function. It had become increasingly obvious the advisory role was too narrow a framework for the partners represented on TAC. This created a need for a different format through which VANOC and its partners can coordinate their efforts, cooperate on specific tasks and plan and execute the individual agencies responsibilities. In order to provide this needed format, the Olympic and Paralympic Transportation Team (OPTT) was established as a platform for cooperation and engagement between VANOC and its regional transportation partners. The principal function of the OPTT is to plan, coordinate and provide integrated transportation services to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games client groups and spectators while minimizing the impact on the general population and local businesses within the Games theatre. This partnership can lead to a Games-time transportation program that will meet the service expectations of Games-time visitors and regional residents while creating a foundation for long-term technological, social and environmental legacies Vancouver International Airport (YVR) The Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has state-of-the-art facilities and design, quick connections to downtown Vancouver and a high degree of accessibility for persons with a disability. YVR is the gateway to the 2010 Winter Games experience. YVR is Canada s second-busiest airport and the second-largest international passenger gateway on the west coast of North America. The airport operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Consistently rated one of the world s top airports for overall passenger satisfaction, YVR served an estimated 17.5 million passengers and handled over 235,000 tonnes of cargo in YVR is located six kilometres from the Richmond Oval and 13 kilometres from the Olympic and Paralympic Village Vancouver and other downtown Vancouver venues. 44 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

47 18.3 Canada Line Rapid Transit A new 19-kilometre rapid transit line, known as the Canada Line, is currently under construction. It will link Vancouver with Richmond and the Vancouver International Airport. The new route, which expands Vancouver s rapid transit system, also connects a number of key 2010 Winter Games sites. The construction phase began in August 2005 and the Canada Line is scheduled to open in The Governments of Canada and British Columbia, Translink and the Vancouver Airport Authority are funding partners for the line, which is also supported by the cities of Vancouver and Richmond Sea to Sky Highway British Columbia s Ministry of Transportation is undertaking improvements to the highway that connects Vancouver with Whistler to improve its safety and reliability. By 2009, extensive highway improvements will make travel along the corridor safer for residents, commuters and tourists. These improvements include highway widening and straightening, improved sightlines, passing lanes and other design innovations to reduce hazards, shorten travel times and increase the capacity of the route. VANOC is working with the ministry to ensure the 2010 Games requirements are integrated with the Sea to Sky Highway improvement project. The Sea to Sky Highway runs between Horseshoe Bay and Pemberton, BC. June 10,

48 19. SECURITY The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has formed an integrated security unit (Vancouver 2010 Integrated Security Unit) for the 2010 Winter Games. Working with municipal, provincial and federal agencies, the unit is developing a comprehensive security delivery plan for the 2010 Winter Games. 20. MEDICAL SERVICES VANOC Medical Services will plan and deliver excellent medical and health care services for the 2010 Winter Games. The comprehensive plan will include basic and emergency health care delivery, and doping control programs for the Games as well as all pre-games events. Specialty medical services providers will be located in each Olympic and Paralympic Village and dedicated teams of health care providers will be available at each venue. VANOC Medical Services will coordinate the plans for mass casualty incidents, public health concerns and the nutritional program. Following the Games, Medical Services will leave a sustainable legacy for sports and health science locally and nationally. Medical Services will educate health care professionals through courses, conferences and Games-specific training; provide practitioners with experience in organizing medical services for large-scale events; and give donated and purchased medical supplies and equipment to various groups Anti-Doping VANOC is committed to doing everything it can to host dopingfree Games and ensure athletes can compete on a level playing field at the 2010 Winter Games. The VANOC Anti-Doping Program, under the direction of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), is planning for a significant increase in testing from previous Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Approximately 2,000 tests (both blood and urine) are planned for the Olympic Winter Games and approximately 425 tests (both blood and urine) are planned for the Paralympic Winter Games. The Anti-Doping Program is also working with the Montreal National Institute of Scientific Research (INRS) World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) accredited laboratory to ensure the latest analytical techniques for both blood and urine are in place for the 2010 Winter Games. While detection and deterrence through testing is crucial, a truly state-of-the-art anti-doping program must include education initiatives. VANOC s Anti-Doping Program plans to deliver an interactive and engaging Athlete Outreach Program, based on WADA s highly successful model, at a number of sporting events. Electronic resources will also be developed and distributed to raise anti-doping awareness. VANOC s Anti-Doping Program also involves delivering a pre-games education program to ensure that athletes (and those who work/travel with them) are well informed when it comes to anti-doping rules and procedures, and the values of doping-free sport ultimately ensuring that the rights of athletes to fair and ethical competition are protected. 46 VANCOUVER 2010 Information Book

49 21. CULTURE AND CEREMONIES The cultural programs VANOC develops for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games will reflect Vancouver and Canada s cultural diversity, rich Aboriginal heritage and lively, progressive arts scene. For the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, VANOC will call on local cultures, artists, performers and creators as well as those from across Canada to produce exciting and memorable ceremonies, arts festivals and cultural events. VANOC will also involve individuals and communities from across Canada in the 2010 torch relays and develop education programs that build on this unique opportunity to spread the spirit of the Games Cultural Olympiad Reflecting the significance of culture as one of the three pillars of the Olympic Movement, the Cultural Olympiad is designed to support Olympism by presenting an international celebration of arts, cultural events and activities and creating an atmosphere of celebration in Vancouver, Whistler and across Canada. Since 2007, VANOC has been partnering with local and national creators and cultural organizations to create, develop, produce and present a full spectrum of arts and cultural events and activities. This Olympic cultural showcase will feature the best of Canada s contemporary, classical and Aboriginal arts, together with the finest works of international counterparts from other IOC nations. The multi-year celebration was launched in 2008, marking the first time a Winter Games has hosted a Cultural Olympiad two years before Games time. The Cultural Olympiad will culminate in the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Arts Festival Olympic Arts Festival On January 22, 2010, three weeks before the Opening Ceremony of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, the three-week Olympic Arts Festival will begin. The festival will be a celebration of the Olympic Movement and the Olympic spirit, and a showcase for Canadian art and culture, together with the best the rest of the world has to offer. The festival will take place in more than 30 different venues and locations throughout Vancouver and Whistler at theatres, galleries, clubs and the sidewalks, streets and public spaces around the sport venues presenting a blend of traditional and contemporary arts and cultural events and experiences. Many events will be free of charge. June 10,