Organizing committee cancels 2020 Western Canadian Ringette Championships in Prince George

The Western Canadian Ringette Championships governance committee (WCRC) has decided to cancel its 2020 tournament in Prince George.

This is due to concerns of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and its escalating risks, becoming one of countless other sporting events throwing in the towel around the world.

Currently, there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 within Northern Health's region.

Prince George was scheduled to host the championships from March 25 to 28 in rinks across the city.

More than 25 teams from B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan and Mantioba, including two potential local teams as hosts.

A statement from WCRC explains the cancellation is in response to the B.C. government's requirement to halt all events with gatherings of more than 250 people to reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread.

"We understand the impact that this scenario has on the ringette community, and thank you in advance for your patience and understanding. The health and safety of our players and families, our volunteers, and the rest of the ringette community is our priority. The Western Canadian Ringette Championships Governance Committee will work with the WCRC Host Committee on reconcilling the event."

On Feb. 29, as a lead-up to Westerns, Prince George Ringette hosted its annual media game at the Rolling Mix Concrete Arena to showcase the athletes potentially competing on home ice if the event ran as scheduled.

If anyone has any concerns related to COVID-19, you are encouraged to visit HealthLinkBC's page dedicated to the pandemic.