February 23, 2026 –

Two local leaders and one major sporting event from Thunder Bay have been named finalists for the Sport Event Congress PRESTIGE Sport Tourism Awards:

• Sport Event of the Year: Scotties Tournament of Hearts
• Sport Tourism Volunteer of the Year: Diane Imrie, Executive Director of the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame
• Tourism Industry Champion: Paul Burke, Supervisor of Sport & Community Development with the City of Thunder Bay

Presented annually at the Sport Event Congress, the awards recognize individuals, destinations, and events that make significant contributions to Canada’s sport tourism industry.

“We’re proud to see Thunder Bay recognized nationally. Sport tourism is a strategic and substantial part of our local visitor economy, driving spending and creating opportunities for local businesses, accommodations, restaurants, and community organizations,” said Paul Pepe, Tourism Manager. “Major events like the Scotties Tournament of Hearts and the Ontario Winter Games continue to deliver strong economic impact, contributing more than $6.9 million locally.”

The Canadian Sport Event of the Year Award recognizes the overall success of an outstanding single-sport, multi-sport, or collegiate event held in Canada in 2025.

The Sport Tourism Volunteer of the Year Award honours the outstanding volunteer contributions made during the hosting of one or more sport events in Canada in 2025.

“What an absolute honour for the 2025 Scotties Tournament of Hearts Organizing Committee to be finalists for Canadian Event of the Year at the STC Prestige Awards,” said Diane Imrie, Scotties Organizing Committee Co-Chair. “This event would not have been possible without the incredible contributions of our volunteers, dedicated Curling Canada staff, our local curling clubs, and the community who came together to make it a success. I am also humbled to be nominated for volunteer of the year award.”

The Sport Tourism Industry Champion Award recognizes a professional with more than 10 years of industry experience whose work has significantly strengthened the sport tourism sector. Burke was nominated for his longstanding leadership in attracting and delivering major sporting events that support athlete development, foster community pride, and position Thunder Bay as a premier host destination.

“I am humbled and honoured to be nominated for a Prestige Award by my peers,” said Paul Burke. “The sport events Thunder Bay hosts provide substantial development opportunities for our athletes and are also a source of community pride. We aim to provide an excellent stage for athletes to compete and shine.”

Award winners will be announced March 11 in Mississauga at the 2026 Sport Event Congress.