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Alberta will once again take centre stage in international athletics as the World Athletics Continental Tour Silver returns to Edmonton on July 12, bringing elite competitors from around the globe to the province's capital.

More than 200 athletes, coaches and technical officials representing 15 countries will gather at Foote Field for the fifth annual Edmonton Athletics Invitational. The internationally recognized competition provides athletes with an opportunity to earn valuable world ranking points as they prepare for upcoming international championships.

The Government of Alberta has invested more than $181,000 through its Major Sport Events Grant Program to support the planning and delivery of the event. Organizers expect the meet to generate more than $1 million in economic impact for the Edmonton region while attracting an estimated 3,000 spectators.

Minister of Tourism and Sport Andrew Boitchenko said Alberta continues to strengthen its reputation as a premier destination for major sporting events.

"We're proud to welcome this event back for the fifth time. When world-class events keep choosing Alberta, it reinforces our reputation as a premier sport tourism destination and reflects the exceptional experiences we deliver," he said.

Hosted by Athletics Alberta, the Edmonton Athletics Invitational will feature a full schedule of track and field competitions, including sprint, middle and long-distance races, field events and para-athletics. Both Canadian and international competitors will battle for valuable ranking points as they continue their preparations for major competitions later this season.

Several prominent Alberta athletes are expected to compete, including Edmonton's Marco Arop, the Olympic silver medallist in the men's 800 metres; Amanda Rummery of Sherwood Park, a Paralympic sprinter, Canadian record holder and multiple-time national champion; and Calgary's Noah Vucsics, a Paralympic long jumper and international medallist.

Athletics Alberta Executive Director Jef Bailey said the event continues Edmonton's long-standing tradition of hosting high-level track and field competition.

"This is another incredible opportunity to witness these amazing athletes competing in Edmonton. We are very proud and honoured to be part of this athlete experience and to continue the rich legacy of track and field events in Edmonton," Bailey said.

Beyond the competition itself, organizers say major sporting events such as the Edmonton Athletics Invitational provide lasting benefits by attracting visitors, supporting local businesses and showcasing Alberta's world-class sporting facilities. The event also helps strengthen the province's tourism industry while reinforcing Alberta's growing reputation as an international destination for major sporting events.

The Edmonton Athletics Invitational is part of the World Athletics Continental Tour Silver, one of the premier levels of international track and field competition outside the Diamond League, and continues to attract some of Canada's top athletes alongside elite competitors from around the world.

(Source: Government of Alberta)