Castanet

Living down south here in Penticton I'm really curious to find out how Vernon residents really feel about your city council bidding on Ironman. Do most you talk to want it?

what was the real reason you guys dumped it?
i think Vernon should refuse the 75k fee.
taxpayers should not be on the hook for that when it will only support some businesses.
let the hotels etc that will gain pay the fee.
if mcdonalds and other resturants want to pitch in fair enough.
how many in the city will really gain from this event?
the ironman company makes big profit we should actually get paid from them to hold a event here.

keith1612 wrote:what was the real reason you guys dumped it?...the ironman company makes big profit we should actually get paid from them to hold a event here.

This article may answer your questions:

http://www.pentictonwesternnews.com/news/167195975.html

So much for local government not being allowed to assist business ("it's illegal" according to yesterday's MorningStar), as pointed out some businesses may benefit for a short period of time but most won't. And the one that will benefit most is undoubtedly the World Triathlon Corporation.

What the Ironman-Vernon supporters want you to believe:
"...our business community will see between $10 and $15 million annually generated for their businesses and our local economy. It will allow businesses to hire more staff, create larger markets and in turn, build their businesses."

What I refuse to believe:
That local businesses are going to hire more staff year-round because of Ironman.

Anyone else drinking the Ironman-ade?

I would much prefer to see our City build capacity to host a variety of sports tournaments/events throughout the year, not dedicate this much funding/resources to a single event. But whatevah, I was only one of 44 expressing concerns, while 700+ are happy to support. Good luck with your bid, Vernon!

Kelowna makes Ironman shortlist, Vernon doesn't
C__C News : Friday, September 28, 2012 8:19 PM EST
The Ironman could be heading for the Central Okanagan. Kelowna is on the shortlist of possible Ironman cities. The City of Vernon, which also submitted a bid, is not. Kelowna is now going head-to-head with Whistler and Huntsville, Ontario to host the 2013 triathlon. The Ironman is looking for a new home after Penticton decided to have another company run its triathlon next year. Kelowna Mayor Walter Gray and some high-level city staff were in Florida this week presenting the city's bid to Ironman organizers. “I am disappointed that we are out of the running to host Ironman, but I’m proud of how well our Staff, Council and Community pulled together and showcased our community at its best. I thank our whole community for that,” said acting City of Vernon mayor Mary-Jo O’Keefe in a statement. The World Triathlon Corporation will announce the new host city for the Ironman on October 10.

I think in the long run, Vernon will be very happy that their bid didn't win. Being from Penticton I understand the problems Ironman brought this city.

And if Kelowna's bid is successful, Vernon may still benefit from the spinoffs...

Whistler will win...