Fort McMurray Badminton Olympic Qualifier Moving Forward Despite Coronavirus Concerns

Badminton Canada’s Olympic Qualifier in Wood Buffalo is still scheduled to happen at the end of the month.

The group is set to host the YONEX Canadian International Challenge 2020 at MacDonald Island Park.

There are concerns from the public and the players regarding the coronavirus. There are currently seven confirmed cases of the illness in the province, however, none are in the RMWB.

In a statement sent to Mix News, Badminton Canada Executive Director Joe Morrisette says their top priority remains the safety of everyone involved.

“COVID-19 is a fast-evolving situation globally, and we will update or revise our event planning as necessary. As of now, there is no basis to speculate on any postponement or cancellation of the International Challenge.”

Over the weekend, it was announced the 2020 Arctic Winter Games in Whitehorse were being canceled due to the virus. The event would have brought around 2,000 visitors to the city.

Fort McMurray’s tournament is expected to bring in around 200 athletes from across the globe.

“Badminton Canada is working closely with both the Public Health Agency of Canada and Regional Emergency Services of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo to monitor the COVID 19 situation and to review any countermeasures that may be necessary at this event,” added Morrisette.

The event is scheduled to take place from March 31 to April 5.

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