The wait is almost over.
Dauphin and the surrounding area were set to host the 2020 Manitoba Summer Games, Powered by Manitoba Hydro. That event was postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic.
On Sunday, the 2024 Games will officially open inside Credit Union Place with the Opening Ceremonies that are slated to begin at 6:30 p.m. The doors will open to the public at 5:30 and like every single event throughout the event, admission will be free.
Donna Davidson is a part of the crew taking care of the Opening Ceremonies and she is thrilled that the day is finally here.
"We're hoping that many members of our community can attend," said Davidson. "We have some entertainment for those that will be present. We are looking forward to kicking off the Games in grand style."
While the budget for the Opening Ceremonies in Dauphin won't be anywhere near that of the Paris Olympics that took place nearly two weeks ago, Davidson says they have some great things planned and it will be a special day to open what will be a week to remember for participants and fans alike.
"We don't have the budget that Paris does," Davidson said with a chuckle. "With that said, we are trying very hard to get as close as we can to that level with the budget that we do have. We want this to be a memorable event, one that everyone will remember for a very long time."
Davidson also adds that this ceremony is for the athletes.
"I do believe that the youth come first, our focus is on them, and we want to make sure they have a memorable experience," offered Davidson. "It's about building community and coming together as a province."
Donna has also enjoyed being a part of the Games Committee.
"It has been a wonderful journey and a learning journey," ended Davidson. "I'm looking forward to the Games and everything that comes with it."
Davidson and her crew are also responsible for the medal presentations throughout the week and the Closing Ceremonies which take place next Saturday at 2:30 p.m.
"We want to make memories, we want our youth to have positive memories when they leave our community," ended Davidson.
It is an event that has been years in the making and come Sunday at 6:30, the 2024 Manitoba Summer Games, Powered by Manitoba Hydro, will officially commence with the Opening Ceremonies at Credit Union Place.
