After wrapping up the first weekend of the Renfrew County 2023 Ontario Winter Games, the Games Organizing Committee is taking a moment to appreciate the positive outcomes while gearing up for next weekend.
From all reports, both athletes and visitors had a fantastic time in Renfrew County. Many took to social media to express their gratitude towards the organizers and especially the volunteers, who contributed significantly to their enjoyable experience throughout the weekend.
Touche! Fencers engage in battle during the fencing competition at Opeongo High School just outside Cobden during the initial weekend of the Renfrew County 2023 Ontario Winter Games. Anthony Dixon Anthony Dixon /jpg, PM
A highlight for local competitors was the U14 Ottawa Valley Titans – with Coach Scott Buffam from Arnprior and players from Renfrew County: goalie Brian Rathwell from Pembroke; defencemen Andrew Enright from Cobden; defencemen Tyler Mc Enery from Eganville; and forward Kaden Mc Gregor from Braeside – who brought home a silver medal in men’s hockey. Additionally, Arnprior twins Alexis and Jaidyn Mc Guire secured bronze in ringette as part of Team Black.
Arnprior twins Alexis (left) and Jaidyn Mc Guire earned bronze medals in Ringette at the Renfrew County 2023 Ontario Winter Games. Submitted photo /jpg, PM
Buffam mentioned that the atmosphere felt truly local, which was thrilling for a team that usually competes far from home.
“This was totally Renfrew County; everywhere you go, there are volunteers with smiles on their faces,” he said. “We had a huge turnout that you don’t see in big centres. It was amazing to see so many people supporting all the athletes.”
The U14 Ottawa Valley Titans AAA claimed silver in men’s hockey at the Renfrew County 2023 Ontario Winter Games. They lost to Sun County Panthers 4-1 in the tournament final on February 5 at Ma-te-Way Activity Centre in Renfrew. County of Renfrew photo /jpg, PM
Peter Emon, chairman of the Games Organizing Committee and Warden of Renfrew County, visited several venues over opening weekend and heard plenty of positive feedback.
“I got a chance to talk with parents and athletes who were praising everything-the venues, food options, friendly volunteer faces, how helpful they were, and overall organization,” said Emon. “This reflects well on our volunteers who really embraced their roles and did an excellent job showcasing our community.”
Paige Bown delivers her shot while teammate Jacob Clarke prepares to sweep during mixed fours curling at Pembroke Curling Centre during opening weekend of the Renfrew County 2023 Ontario Winter Games. Anthony Dixon Anthony Dixon /jpg, PM
To ensure that around 1,400 participants have an equally great experience next weekend (February 9-12), another outdoor Opening Ceremony is scheduled for February 9 at Ma-te-Way Park in Renfrew. The ceremony kicks off at 6:30 p. m., with public access starting at 5:30 p. m.
The second weekend will showcase various outdoor sports such as Alpine skiing and para-Alpine events at Calabogie Peaks; cross-country skiing and para cross-country events at Ma-te-Way Park; along with biathlon competitions at Calabogie Highlands Golf Club. Indoor sports include badminton and squash held at Dundonald Hall in Garrison Petawawa; kickboxing hosted by Valour JK-12 School in Petawawa; sledge hockey taking place at Petawawa Civic Centre; wrestling events held at Fellowes High School in Pembroke; karate competitions occurring at Renfrew Collegiate Institute; weightlifting happening at Madawaska Valley District High School; wushu events set for Arnprior District High School; and bowling organized by Merivale Bowling located in Nepean.
If you’d like more details about the Games or want to register for available volunteer opportunities, check out renfrewcounty2023. ca.
You can follow along with updates from the Renfrew County 2023 Ontario Winter Games on social media where photos from opening weekend are shared: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
En garde! Prete! Allez! Fencers compete during fencing contests held at Opeongo High School outside Cobden during opening weekend of the Renfrew County Ontario Winter Games. Anthony Dixon Anthony Dixon /jpg, PM
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