Miller said that the event brought in about $6 million in visitor spending when it was first held in Regina in 2007.
More than 600 athletes and 500 coaches and officials will travel to Regina for the competition. . .
Women’s artistic, men’s artistic, tumbling and trampoline, and rhythmic gymnastics will all be featured at the meet. This is only the second time that all four disciplines, which are made up of 17 events, will be housed under the same roof. The first time took place in 2007 in Regina.
After the 2007 event, which Miller described as a huge success, Miller and her committee of organizers were excited about possibility hosting the championships again. In 2010 they submitted a successful bid to host the 2012 event..
The competition comes at an exciting time, because several athletes competing are working toward appearances at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, England.
Saskatchewan gymnasts looking for a spot on the provincial team have been practicing hard, said Cheryl Russell, chairperson of delegate services for the championships.
“For a national-level athlete, for the artistic program, they train 20 to 25 hours a week,” she said.
Two members of the senior national team, Jayd Lukenchuk and Anderson Loran, both of Saskatoon, are vying for Olympic spots. Lukenchuk is a favourite to join Team Canada in London.
“If we qualify a team, (Lukenchuk) will be on it,” said Russell. “He is absolutely amazing.”
The competition will take place in the Credit Union EventPlex at Evraz Place, the same location where the competition was hosted in 2007. The facility has two training gyms attached to the main competition area. Competitors will stay in the North and South Residences at the University of Regina.
Viterra has signed on to be the title sponsor of the event at a cost of $30,000.
Over 800 volunteers are needed for the championships to run successfully, said Miller. Those interested in volunteering at asked to visit the Gymnastics Saskatchewan website www.gymnastics2012.ca or call the office at 780-9229 to register.
