2011 Winter Deaflympics to Proceed

Frederick MD, USA—The 2011 Winter Deaflympics in Slovakia will proceed as scheduled, Tiffany Granfors—International Committee of Sports for the Deaf (ICSD) Chief Executive Officer —announced today with full approval from the ICSD Executive Board. Athletes, coaches, fans, and other supporters are encouraged to make plans to attend these games, headquartered in Vysoké Tatry, Slovakia, to be held during 18-26 February 2011.

Stated Granfors, "My recent trip to Slovakia showed me that the organizing committee has made great strides in ensuring that all sports venues, lodging facilities, and transportation services will be available during the Winter Deaflympics." ICSD had previously taken the unprecedented step of putting the Slovakian Organizing Committee on notice for failing to meet certain deadlines pertinent in the hosting of a Deaflympics. “While some financial issues remain for the organizing committee," Granfors added, "the average athlete or fan should not notice any difference in the Winter Deaflympics experience. ICSD has developed a reputation of putting on stellar Winter and Summer Deaflympics over the past decade and we wanted to ensure that this tradition continues. I am looking forward to a successful 17th Winter Deaflympics in Slovakia this coming February!"

The recognized member of the International Olympic Committee, ICSD organizes Winter and Summer Deaflympics in conjunction with local organizing committees. The upcoming Winter Deaflympics will consist of five sports: Alpine Skiing, Cross Country Skiing, Curling, Ice Hockey, and Snowboarding. In addition, ICSD is busily preparing for the upcoming 2013 Summer Deaflympics in Greece. Visit www.deaflympics.com for more information.

By Secretariat