The idea for the Canada Games was born at a meeting of the Amateur Athletic Union of Canada in 1924 in Winnipeg, Manitoba Over 40 years later, in Quebec City in 1966, the Quebec and Canadian governments approved a proposal to hold the first-ever Games to coincide with Canada's 1967 Centennial celebrations. They were a tremendous success. Since then, an estimated 45,000 young Canadians have participated in the Games. Another 180,000 have engaged in try-outs and qualifying events. Many millions of Canadians have watched the Games either first-hand or on television, and over 67,000 have volunteered.

40 Years of Canadian Spirit

A multi-sport event held every two years - alternating between summer and winter - these Games provide a showcase for Canadian athletic talent, highlighting the host regions and presenting an opportunity to nurture Canadian pride. Staging of the Games has rotated throughout the provinces and, in 2007, they will be held in Canada's North for the first time ever.