Swim Ontario announces that the upcoming SCM Jr. Provincials for March 1-4, 2012 will now be hosted by the Nepean Kanata Barracudas at the Nepean Sportsplex.
Background
When planning any of the Swim Ontario competitions we have been very aware of the challenges that both potential and actual labour disruptions can create. In 2005 the City of Toronto’s accommodation allowed Swim Ontario and our host club ESWIM to deliver our LCM Jr. Provincial Championships despite the strike action. In 2009, Swim Ontario and our swimming community was not so lucky and we had to make a very quick decision to move our LCM Jr. Provincial Championship to the City of London. Now in 2012 the City of Toronto and its unions are again moving into a period of uncertainty which can result in the very real possibility of either a lock-out or strike. With over 1,000 swimmers expected at the Short Course Provincials, Swim Ontario needed to consider the options.
Swim Ontario has decided to take proactive steps to mitigate the risk of being impacted by any labour disruption.
The risk of labour disruption was recognized in late November (2011). Our first step was to identify a solution which did not change both Short and Long Course Provincials. Unfortunately the City of London cannot assist and the City of Brantford cannot accommodate due to massive renovations of the construction of a new tank. In addition the investigation of hosting within the GTA at private facilities would have meant changing the format of the Provincials. Swim Ontario approached the City of Toronto with a request for exemption to run our winter provincials and thus guarantee its potential delivery. We have not been able to be given any guarantee by the City of Toronto to operate our championship meet in the event of a labour disruption.
Although they were not expecting it Swim Ontario approached the Nepean Kanata Barracudas and asked if they would be prepared to host Short Course Provincials. After consultation with city staff they have agreed.
Swim Ontario thanks the Nepean Kanata Barracudas, City of Ottawa and Etobicoke Swimming for their valued cooperation and effort to guarantee that our eligible and qualified membership will have the opportunity to compete in the SCM Jr. Provincial Championship. Swim Ontario and our Toronto member swim clubs enjoy a positive relationship and partnership with the City of Toronto. With the 2015 Pan Am Games and the facilities being constructed this partnership will only continue to grow and expand.
We understand the challenges and difficulties this may pose to our membership however we thank you for your understanding in this uncertain climate. An announcement on Long Course Provincial hosting will be forthcoming.
Please feel free to contact Swim Ontario should you need any clarification.
Respectfully,
Swim Ontario