The Saint John region is preparing to host several major indoor track and field championships over the coming weeks.
Four regional and national events are taking place at the Irving Oil Field House, with the first happening this weekend.
The New Brunswick Indoor Track & Field Championships & University Invitational will be held on Jan. 27 and 28.
Followed by the Atlantic University Sports Track & Field Championship from Feb. 23 to 25, the Atlantic Club Indoor Championships on Feb. 26, and the Athletics Canada Indoor Championship on Mar. 18 and 19.
Bill MacMackin, president of the Saint John Track & Field Club, said this is the second time for most of the events to be held at the Field House.
“Working with Athletics New Brunswick and our federation partners in the Maritimes, Athletics Canada, and the UNB REDS allows us to host these events and shows the advantage and the power of teamwork,” MacMackin said in a news release.
The events are estimated to have a collective economic impact of up to $2 million, according to Envision Saint John.
“Sport tourism not only generates energy and vitality for a destination, it is an economic driver for hotels, restaurants, retail and transportation,” said Paulette Hicks, CEO of Envision Saint John.
“Building on the momentum of events like the 2022 Memorial Cup Championship and the IIHF World Junior exhibition game, the region is kicking off 2023 in a big way with the Saint John Track & Field Club events.”